About the Rare Lionhead Rabbit Breed & the North American Lionhead Rabbit Club

According to the North American Lionhead Club's website, the NALC has been seeking ARBA recognition for its breed since 2003. Currently lionheads may be shown at ARBA-sanctioned events as a exhibition breed only, ineligible for best-in-show awards. Founded in 2001, the NALC hosts an annual lionhead show in Columbus, Ohio, each May. The elected officers of the NALC include president, vice president, secretary and treasurer, along with nine directors. Eligible candidates must be members of both the NALC and the ARBA for at least two consecutive years before running for office.

Lionheads have big manes but small bodies. At maturity, the lionhead ranges between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds. Lionhead colors are black, chocolate, tortoise, blue, blue point, blue-eyed white and ruby-eyed white, chestnut agouti, seal, silver marten, smoke pearl, pointed white, sable point and Siamese sable. The lionhead's body should be short and compact, with broad chest and shoulders. The hindquarters are also broad and deep, while legs are medium-boned and of medium length. The head must be wide with slightly round eyes, with the head attached to the body so no neck is visible. Ears cannot exceed 3.5 inches in length and should be furry with round tips.

The "mane" is a dominant genetic mutation, so breeding a lionhead to another type of rabbit will result in some maned offspring. A lionhead might possess a double mane, which consists of a mane encircling the head, and wooly fur around the tail, hips and hindquarters. Single-maned lionheads have only the mane around the head and possibly the chest. Some lionhead offspring don't have a mane, so they resemble any small rabbit. Non-maned lionheads shouldn't be used for breeding purposes.

Lionheads tend to timidity, so aren't a particularly good breed for children. Once a lionhead trusts its person, this small bunny becomes a playful, friendly pet. Their manes require regular combing for mat avoidance. The teeth of all rabbits grow constantly, so bunnies require fiber in the form of hay to keep the teeth worn down. Lionheads are more prone than other breeds to dental disease, so check your pet's teeth regularly for any signs of uneven growth. Because of their long fur, lionheads are more likely to develop hairballs than other rabbits. Your vet can recommend a hairball preventive for your lionhead.