
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Oryctolagus cuniculus
A very large breed developed in Britain and Europe from Flemish Giant stock. BRC-recognized, it has produced the world record rabbits for length and weight.
The Continental Giant, also called the German Giant, is a very large breed originally raised for meat. It is said to descend from the Flemish Giant and was first documented in 1893. The British Rabbit Council recognizes it in two categories, coloured and white; it is not recognized by ARBA and is treated as distinct from the American Flemish Giant. In 2010 a Continental Giant named Ralph was certified by Guinness World Records as the heaviest rabbit, and individuals of about 132 cm in length and about 24 kg have been recorded. The coat is short and dense, in colours such as agouti, black, chinchilla, light grey, steel grey, fawn and white. Known as a 'gentle giant', the breed is docile and people-oriented; many learn to use a litter tray and respond to their names. Housing must offer a large floor area and solid flooring that supports the weight (no wire floors). Research reports a high rate of femoral fractures in the breed, hypothesized to stem from bone weakness; sore hocks and obesity also need attention. In Japan a few animals reach the market through breeders specializing in giant breeds.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Continental Giant Rabbit lives 4-5 years.
Lifespan is 4-5 years, short as is typical of giant breeds.
The Continental Giant Rabbit grows to 5.6-11.3kg.
Typical weight is 5.6-11.3 kg.
Origin
Continental Europe (German and Belgian lines); standardized in the UK
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.
Sources: CITES Appendices (domestic rabbit not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
4-5 years
Size
5.6-11.3kg
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay (staple), pellets, vegetables
Standard rabbit cages are too small. Use a room section or pen with a large floor area and solid flooring that bears the weight.
Short but dense undercoat; brush out dead hair during moults. Check the fur and skin of the hind feet regularly.
Docile and affectionate; learns litter habits and its name. RWAF recommends keeping rabbits in pairs.
Femoral fractures are frequently reported; take care when lifting and prevent falls. Feed hay-first to prevent sore hocks, obesity and dental overgrowth.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Continental Giant Rabbit is 4-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Continental Giant Rabbit typically reaches 5.6-11.3kg as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Continental Giant Rabbit feeds on: Timothy hay (staple), pellets, vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Continental 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