The Checkered Giant Rabbits
Complete Guide & Facts
The Checkered Giant rabbit is a large breed of rabbit that is said to have originated in France. Weighing over 11 lbs, it takes a certain type of bunny owner to handle one of these rabbits. You’ll need to make sure you have the space and the food for this furry creature, as well as lots of energy as they are an active bun!
That being said, they can make a wonderful family pet in homes with those who understand their needs. If you’re interested in learning more about this big rabbit and seeing whether they might be the pet for you, keep reading below.
History Of The Checkered Giant Rabbits
The American Checkered Giant rabbit is usually seen as a show-rabbit because of their impressive size and appearance. They are one of the largest rabbit breeds yet are still commonly seen as companions in many different homes.
The Checkered rabbit is recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). Let’s take a look at their origins below.
Breed Origin
While some believe the Checkered Giant rabbit originated in France, others believe the breed originated in Germany. Either way, these rabbits were first created by breeding together Flemish Giants, French Lops and spotted rabbits. These bunnies were called “Land Kaninchen” although they did not have the markings we know today’s Checkered Giant to have
These Land Kaninchen continued to be bred with Flemish Giants throughout Germany to increase their size and eventually the “Lorraine rabbit” was created, sometimes called the “Great German Spotted rabbit”.
In 1904, a breeder called Mr. Otto Reinhardt of Reinfalz, Germany, bred the Great German Spotted rabbit with a black Flemish Giant rabbit. This created the Checkered Giant we know today. They first arrived in the United States in 1910, shortly after which they were recognized by ARBA.
Characteristics Of The Checkered Giant Rabbit
The Checkered rabbit certainly is unique thanks to their size and markings. These bunnies are normal born in litter sizes of between 11 and 14 kits! A Checkered rabbit can be more expensive than other breeds, especially if you are looking for a show-quality bun, due to their size.
Appearance
It is no secret that the Checkered rabbit is a giant breed. They have no maximum weight, but a minimum weight of 11 lbs for senior bucks and 12 lbs for senior does. This breed has a slender yet muscular build and their body is hare-like and long while also being arched. Their legs are long and powerful and they have a wide head with upright, broad ears.
Color
The Checkered Giant rabbit is one of the few breeds recognized by ARBA as having distinctive markings. The only color that the ARBA accepts is white with either blue or black markings. The blue or black markings include rings around the eyes, colored ears, cheek flashes and a butterfly shaped marking on the nose, as well as a dorsal stripe that runs down the spine from ears to tail.