Himalayan Rabbit Information

Early origins of the Himalayan breed unclear. White rabbit with dark color on ears, nose and feet have been identified in different parts of the world for hundreds of years. They have been given many names, including Nose China, Russia, Egypt and Black. This is one of the nation's oldest and most extensive. (In fact, the mutation responsible for 'Himalaya' coloring may occur spontaneously in different lineages at different parts of the world. Scientists have shown that the British breed stock Himalayas have a genetic link with the same kind that was developed in France around the same time, and therefore must have a different origin).

The Himalayan breed, as we know it today, originated in England in the mid-19th century. It is estimated that the breed was developed from bunny brought back from the Himalayas by the English merchant adventurers. The Himalayan specially developed good color and fur quality and became popular as both a commercial breed and events. First Himalayans are black, blue variety is achieved through cross wedding, followed by a few other colors. The Himalayan exported to the United States in the early 1900s.

Appearance

The Himalayan rabbit is small, usually weighing about 1.5-2.5kg (3-5 ½ lbs).

Himalayans have a lean, 'winding' build. They have a body length of the back and hips same width as the shoulders, and long, slender legs. The head is long and lean, with short, pointed, erect ears.

The Himalayan white coloring with colored ears, nose, feet and tail. The nose oval marked runs under the jaw and good to the eye toward the nose profile. Colored ear from the base up to the tip, like a tail. Feet, including dark nail color goes good until the foot.

Himlayan staining of actually grafted through recessive gene and only shows itself at the end of the cooler body through poor circulation. Himalayan rabbits are born gray or pale white, the color began to appear at about 4 weeks and fully developed during the first 6 months. Staining is prone to change, the more dark and cold temperatures in the warm light.

The Himalayan has a short, smooth hair and a smooth, soft coat.

Color

Black, Blue, Chocolate and Lilac.

Temperament

Himalayans are generally very calm, kind and friendly. They are smart, funny and social bunny and grow at attention. Himalayan rabbits are usually very good with children, they are very tolerant, content to be hugged, and seldom bite or scratch.