
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Oryctolagus cuniculus
A large full-arch breed with a black or blue butterfly nose marking, spine stripe and cheek and side spots on white. Bucks weigh at least 5.0 kg and does 5.4 kg; an active runner needing lots of space.
The Checkered Giant descends from the large spotted European rabbits known in French as the Geant Papillon (giant butterfly). In 1904 Otto Reinhardt of Germany crossed a large German Spot with black Flemish Giants, and the breed reached the United States about six years later; the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recognised it in 1919. Two varieties are accepted: Black (white with black markings) and Blue (white with grey-blue markings). The breed is defined by a fixed pattern of markings - a butterfly across the nose, eye circles, cheek spots, a stripe along the spine and side spots - which judges weigh heavily. It has a full-arch body carried high off the table and is very active. Because of its size and exercise needs it requires plenty of space, and in Japan it appears only rarely through breeders specialising in giant breeds.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Checkered Giant Rabbit lives 8-12 years.
The Checkered Giant Rabbit grows to Bucks 5.0kg+, does 5.4kg+ (ARBA minimum).
The ARBA standard sets minimum weights of 5.0 kg for bucks and 5.4 kg for does with no maximum, making it one of the largest breeds.
The ideal temperature for the Checkered Giant Rabbit is 10〜20℃.
Origin
Germany / France
Sources: ARBA Recognized Breeds / Wikipedia (Checkered Giant rabbit) / RSPCA Rabbit health / RSPCA Rabbits
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Domestic law: 感染症法に基づく動物の輸入届出制度の対象(ウサギ目)。国内流通個体には届出は不要。
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / MHLW Animal Import Notification System
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
Bucks 5.0kg+, does 5.4kg+ (ARBA minimum)
Temperature
10〜20℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay, pellets, small amounts of vegetables
One of the largest and most active breeds; a standard cage is insufficient, so provide a large pen or daily free-run time in a room. Recommended temperature is 10-20C.
The short coat is easy to maintain; brush a few times a week during moults and check the weight-bearing feet and nails regularly.
Energetic and lively; not a lap rabbit, and happiest with room to run.
Large and strong, so guard against falls when lifting. Neutered pairs are recommended, and a hay-based diet helps prevent obesity.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Checkered Giant Rabbit is 10〜20℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Checkered Giant Rabbit is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Checkered Giant Rabbit typically reaches Bucks 5.0kg+, does 5.4kg+ (ARBA minimum) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Checkered Giant Rabbit feeds on: Timothy hay, pellets, small amounts of vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Checkered Giant Rabbit varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026