Californian Rabbits - It took 15 years for them to become popular

George West first developed Californian Rabbits back in the 1920’s. Mr. West first crossbred a Standard Chinchilla with a Himalayan breed. He did this for a particular type of fur he was looking for. Once he achieved the type of fur he wanted, he then bred the Chinchilla/Himalayan mixed breed with a New Zealand White.

By the late 1920’s Mr. West had a breed, which he called the Cochinelles, but later the name was changed to the Californian. It was renamed for the place where the breed was originated, in California.

Along with two other breeders, the Californian was perfected and was first shown in 1932. However, the ARBA did not recognize the breed until 1939. When showing the Californian, the ARBA will only acknowledge the white with black markings breed. In the British Rabbit Shows, other colors are accepted, such as the Blue, Chocolate and Lilac. The Californian is one of the larger breeds. They weigh between 7 to 10 pounds, with an ideal weight of 9 pounds for bucks and 9.5 pounds for does. They have a solid, medium length body that is well rounded. They have a coat of dense fur.

The standard breed has a primarily white body with black markings on their feet, nose, ears and tails. They have bright pink eyes.

This breed became popular 15 years after they were developed. With an excellent quality of fur, this allows the Californian to be classified as a fancy.

Californian Rabbits were first breed for commercial use. Their main purpose was to be a good meat breed but also having an excellent coat (fur).

As with any rabbit, proper care is required. They will need a proper diet, grooming and daily exercise.

Californian Rabbits - General Feeding Tips

Here are some tips on Rabbit Care



Due to their docile nature, a Californian is a good pet rabbit. However, due to their size they may not be suitable for young children.

Here are the descriptions of other breeds


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