What is an English Lop?

The English lop is the oldest specialty breed of domesticated rabbit, known in the rabbit show world as the "King of the Fancy." In fact, all lop breeds today are descendants of the English lop, which was already established as a breed before the dawn of the 18th century. The English lop is characterized by its enormous ears, sometimes measuring as much as 28 inches (70 cm) from one ear tip to the other, and its elegant, mandolin-shaped body, tapering up from a low-lying head to a high, rounded backside in profile. The English lop has appeared in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the longest ears, and the current record among the breed is 31.125 inches (79 cm), on a rabbit bred by Waymon and Margaret Nipper of California.

The English lop has long been a favorite among professional rabbit breeders, and it has earned numerous awards in rabbit shows through the years and dominated the "Best in Show" category in England for a stretch of time. However, it is also popular as a pet, and English lop owners swear by the animal's winning personality and affection towards people, a trait not all rabbits share. The English lop requires some special care because of its unique ears, and the decision to keep one as a pet should not be made lightly.

The ears of the English lop drag on the ground, as you would expect with ears of that size, so it is important for the rabbit to have enough space so that it is not forced to stand on its ears. Even with ample space, the rabbit will occasionally step on its own ears, so keeping the nails of an English lop well trimmed is essential to prevent injury. No rabbit should ever be picked up by its ears, but this is especially true of an English lop, as life-threatening injury could result. Ear wax buildup can also be a problem for this breed, so it is important to inspect the rabbit's ears often and clean them when necessary. The English lop is not a particularly active breed, so it does not require a lot of exercise, but care must be taken not to overfeed it for the same reason.

For dedicated owners, the English lop is a beautiful and rewarding pet, and although it carries extra grooming responsibilities, it is less likely than some other breeds to exhibit behavioral problems. For the many who have fallen in love with the look and personality of these amazing animals, a little extra care is a small price to pay.

The English Lop is a distinctive breed of domestic rabbit known for its exceptionally long ears, which can reach lengths of over 24 inches from tip to tip. This breed is also characterized by a mandolin-shaped body and a friendly, docile temperament, making it a popular pet and show animal.

Caring for an English Lop's ears requires regular checks to ensure they are clean and free from injury. Owners should gently clean the ears with a soft, damp cloth and monitor for signs of infection or parasites. It's important to provide clean bedding to prevent ear soiling and potential health issues.

English Lops have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years on average, though with excellent care, some can live up to 10 years. Their longevity is influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, housing, and regular veterinary care. A well-maintained environment and balanced nutrition are crucial for their health and longevity.

An English Lop's diet should consist of high-quality hay, which provides essential fiber for digestive health, along with a balanced mix of rabbit pellets, fresh vegetables, and clean water. Occasional treats like fruits can be offered, but in moderation to prevent obesity and digestive issues.

English Lops are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them suitable companions for children. However, due to their large ears, they require careful handling to avoid injury. Supervision is recommended to ensure that interactions are safe and positive for both the rabbit and the child.

English Lops are relatively large rabbits and need ample space to move around. A hutch for an English Lop should be at least 6 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet tall, with additional space for exercise outside the hutch. Regular opportunities to hop and stretch are vital for their physical and mental well-being.