As a future pet owner, you might find yourself torn between the adorable Teddy Dwarf and the charming Teddy Lop rabbits. Here, we delve into the distinctive features of each breed, comparing them based on their physical characteristics, ideal weight, and other traits that would make them the perfect addition to your home.
Overview
The Teddy Lop Rabbit and the Teddy Dwarf Rabbit are both incredibly endearing pets, each bringing a distinct charm to any home. The Teddy Lop, characterized by its long, drooping lop ears and plush, dense coat, stands in contrast to the petite Teddy Dwarf, which features perky upright ears, giving it a vivacious appearance. Despite their differences in size and ear morphology, both breeds share a few similarities including their cuddly appearance and need for a loving, nurturing environment. Their plush coats invite affection and cuddles, making them both excellent companions for those looking for a furry friend with a gentle disposition. Their divergent physical characteristics ensure that whether you’re drawn to the curiosity evoked by the Teddy Dwarf’s upright ears or the affectionate charm of the Teddy Lop’s droopy ears, you’re bound to find a companion that resonates with your preferences.
Table of contents
Basic information
Teddy Dwarf (Teddyzwerg)
- Origin: Germany (2009)
- Creation: By crossing an Angora rabbit and a Lionhead rabbit
- Weight: 1.8 to 3.7 pounds (800-1700 grams)
- Spread: Almost all European countries
Teddy Lop (TeddyWidder)
- Origin: Germany (2019)
- Creation: By breeding a dwarf French Angora and a bearded rabbit
- Weight: 2.9 to 4.4 pounds (1300-2000 grams)
- Other Names: TeddyWidder, European TeddyWidder
Physical Characteristics
Teddy Dwarf
- Body Structure: Short, stocky, and cylindrical. Equal width from front to back with a well-rounded pelvis.
- Fur: Long all over the body but relatively easy to maintain as it does not mat quickly. All colors and patterns are permitted.
- Head: Round with a broad forehead, short and thick in comparison to the body, with a barely noticeable neck.
- Eyes: Large, marbled, and situated beneath strong brow bones. Blue eyes and albinos are permitted, although the latter is discouraged due to sensitivity to light and general dislike among enthusiasts.
- Ears: Upright rounded ears, that are furry and can range between 1.5 to 3.0 inches (4.0 to 7.5 cm) in length, though 2.0 to 2.5 inches (5.0 to 6.3 cm) is ideal
Teddy Lop
- Body Structure: Compact, with broad shoulders, a short, strong neck, and a nicely curved spine. The hindquarters are well-rounded, and the legs are short but not too delicate.
- Fur: Dense fur. The standard for the fur quality is similar to the Teddy Dwarf.
- Head: Short and robust, with a more pronounced forehead and nose area (especially in males) than the Teddy Dwarf. Females have slightly narrower heads.
- Eyes: Dark preferred, but blue eyes are allowed. Albinos are permitted but not encouraged, similar to the Teddy Dwarf.
- Ears: Distinct horseshoe-shaped (in German, called hufeisenförmig) hanging ears, with lengths spanning from tip to tip between 9.5 to 10.0 inches (24 to 26 cm). A notable characteristic is the presence of “crowns”, or bulges, at the base of the ears.
Caring for your Teddy Dwarf
With their plush and long fur, Teddy Dwarfs certainly appeal to rabbit enthusiasts. However, their fur, which should remain relatively easy to care for, does require grooming to prevent matting over time. A crucial aspect of their upkeep involves maintaining the ideal weight range, which is between 1.8 to 3.7 pounds (800-1700 grams), to ensure healthy breeding and to avert complications with offspring survival. Given their young lineage, deviations from the ideal characteristics are still quite common, signifying the breed’s ongoing development.
Their broad forehead and substantial, rounded eyes are striking features, yet may potentially bring about concerns of eye issues, particularly if they sport the less desirable albino trait. These rabbits have a noted sensitivity to light, requiring potential owners to approach their care and breeding with informed foresight to prevent unwanted repercussions, such as abandonment or inadequate care.
Lifespan:
If you’re considering bringing a little furball of joy into your home, you’ll be delighted to know that Teddy Dwarf rabbits usually have a lifespan of 6 to 8 years. With the right care, you can look forward to many joyful moments with your new friend.
Diet:
When it comes to diet, these little fluff balls require nutritious meals to maintain their health and vitality. Their diet should primarily consist of high-quality hay, which aids in dental health and digestive function. In addition to hay, you can pamper your Teddy Dwarf with a variety of fresh vegetables to keep their meals interesting and nutritious. Feel free to include vegetables such as:
- Carrots (in moderation due to high sugar content)
- Leafy greens like romaine lettuce and kale
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Cucumber
Remember, it’s always best to introduce new vegetables slowly and in small amounts to monitor how your rabbit reacts to them.
Health Issues:
As cute and cuddly as they are, Teddy Dwarf rabbits have a rather complex breeding history, and thus may be prone to specific health issues. Given their long, luxurious fur, one of the primary concerns is the potential for matting. Even though their coat does not mat quickly, it will over time. Hence, they require a grooming routine that ensures their fur remains relatively easy to care for, preventing eventual matting.
Due to the constricted nature of their tear ducts, these rabbits are prone to experiencing watery and irritated eyes. Additionally, their rounded heads frequently house abbreviated jawbones, which leave inadequate room for proper tooth alignment. This structural limitation not only hinders their ability to consume food effectively but is also a significant concern given their already low body weight.
Furthermore, while their unique genetic makeup gives them a plush, round body and a gorgeous fur coat, it might also make them prone to other health issues. Regular check-ups with a vet experienced in rabbit care will be essential to monitor and maintain their well-being.
Care:
Caring for your Teddy Dwarf rabbit involves more than just adorable snuggles. These little creatures need a loving home that caters to their physical and mental well-being. Due to their particular body structure – short, stocky, and cylindrical, with a well-rounded pelvis and fine-boned legs – creating a living space that allows them to move around comfortably is crucial.
You’ll notice that their heads are quite distinctive, characterized by a broad forehead and large, round eyes that simply melt your heart. Their ears are another striking feature, with an ideal length of about 2.0 to 2.5 inches (5.0 to 6.3 cm), providing the perfect frame to their cute, rounded faces.
A critical aspect of caring for your Teddy Dwarf is to avoid breeding them with rabbits that have a history of genetic dwarfism, as this is considered undesirable for the breed.
Living with A Teddy Dwarf Rabbit
Embracing a Teddy Dwarf rabbit into your home means opening your heart to a bundle of joy characterized by a lush, long coat and a charming personality. As you embark on this fulfilling journey, always remember that while they are adorable, these rabbits have needs and characteristics that require careful attention and love.
Caring for your Teddy Lop
The Teddy Lop, also known as TeddyWidder, mirrors the Dwarf in many of its requirements but comes with its unique set of health considerations. Their remarkable drooping ears, which can span between 24 to 26 centimeters from tip to tip, are certainly a signature trait but might be prone to infections if not regularly checked and cleaned. Moreover, their longer fur, which can grow beyond 2 inches, necessitates consistent grooming to prevent matting, which can quickly lead to skin issues and discomfort.
Furthermore, their considerable weight, ranging between 1300 and 2000 grams, demands a well-balanced diet to prevent obesity and associated health issues. Like their Teddy Dwarf counterparts, the albino variants of Teddy Lop are susceptible to higher light sensitivity, requiring meticulous care to prevent adverse health implications.
Lifespan:
If you’re thinking about inviting a Teddy Lop rabbit into your home, you’ll be pleased to hear that these cuddly creatures can be a part of your family for 5 to 8 years, sometimes even reaching a remarkable 10 years with loving care!
Diet:
Nutrition is paramount for your Teddy Lop’s wellbeing. A steady diet of high-quality hay will not only keep their teeth in check but also foster a healthy digestive system. Supplement this with a colorful array of fresh veggies like carrots, cabbage, kale, and bell peppers and mint to keep their meals vibrant and nutrient-rich. A constant supply of fresh water is non-negotiable to keep them hydrated and happy.
Grooming:
Owing to their beautiful long hair, which covers their entire body including a charming fringe over their eyes, Teddy Lops require a bit more grooming compared to other breeds. Regular brushing is essential to prevent their hair from becoming matted and to keep them looking their best. The good news is, their calm demeanor means grooming sessions will be a breeze, allowing for some great bonding time.
Health Issues:
Teddy Lop rabbits do have a tendency to experience dental problems, gastrointestinal stasis, and obesity. You can prevent weight issues by keeping a watchful eye on their diet and encouraging plenty of playtime and exercise.
Their floppy ears not only obstruct their field of vision but also often lead to distressing ear infections and diminished hearing. This anatomical feature disrupts their ability to communicate effectively with other rabbits, as the positioning of the ears is a crucial aspect of rabbit body language. Consequently, their social interactions are negatively impacted.
Regular vet visits are a great way to catch and address potential health concerns early on.
Care:
Your Teddy Lop deserves a roomy living space where they can stretch their legs and explore freely. Regular cleaning of their living quarters will help prevent infections. And don’t forget to shower them with toys and enrichment activities to keep their minds active and alert. Regular grooming sessions are not only a bonding opportunity but also a way to keep their coat matt-free and check for any signs of parasites or skin conditions.
Living with a Teddy Lop Rabbit
Welcoming a Teddy Lop rabbit into your home is like bringing in a bundle of joy with an added sprinkle of luxury due to their plush coat and unique features. As you embark on this journey, remember that while they are incredibly cute, these rabbits have specific needs and characteristics that demand careful consideration and affection.
Summary:
Both breeds have established themselves as captivating additions to the dwarf rabbit family, promising companionship filled with gentle and calm demeanours. Yet, it is incumbent upon breeders and owners alike to prioritize their health and well-being, fostering environments that nurture their distinctive attributes while mitigating potential health challenges. Through informed breeding and attentive care, the Teddy Dwarf and Teddy Lop can continue to enchant enthusiasts while thriving in health and happiness.
Ideal Weights and Breeding Considerations
Remember, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian or a seasoned rabbit breeder for more detailed care and breeding advice.
Teddy Dwarf
- Females ( Does or Häsinnen): Ideal weight around 3 lb (1350 grams); should be at least 2.5 lb (1100 grams) for breeding. Too small individuals might not be suited for breeding.
- Males (Bucks or Rammler): The weight can vary between 2.2 lb and 3.5 lb. (1000 and 1500 grams), with the ideal weight being around 3 lb. (1350 grams).
- Breeding Standards: There are well-established standards for weight at various shows, indicating that the breed has been accepted and standardized to some extent.
Teddy Lop
- Females (Does or Häsinnen): The ideal weight falls between 3.5 lb and 4.2 lb (1600 and 1900 grams)
- Males (Bucks or Rammler): Ideal weight ranges between 3.3lb and 4.0 lb (1500 and 1800 grams).
- Breeding Considerations: The Teddy Lop breed aims to adhere to the standards of the dwarf lop in terms of structure and form, including the distinctive Ramskopf (ram’s head) feature.
Controversy Surrounding Dwarf and Lop Rabbit Breeds
The practice of breeding dwarf or lop-eared rabbits, often labeled as extreme breeding, has become a contentious issue in recent times. Critics argue that the act of breeding rabbits to have specific features, primarily for their aesthetic appeal to humans, seriously undermines the animals’ natural abilities and characteristics that have evolved over millions of years to aid in their survival. For instance, these artificially selected traits can drastically affect the rabbits’ ability to run, hide, and communicate effectively, all of which are vital attributes for a prey species. Moreover, the selective breeding processes often lead to a myriad of health issues, ranging from hearing loss and severe dental problems to respiratory and digestive disorders. This manipulation of natural traits, many argue, prioritizes human desires for “cute” or “unique” pets over the welfare and longevity of the animals themselves, raising ethical questions about the responsible stewardship of domesticated rabbit breeds.
Conversely, proponents of the practice might argue that the breeding of dwarf or lop rabbits has led to the emergence of distinctive breeds that are highly cherished and loved as pets globally. They might assert that the nurturing environments in which many of these rabbits are kept can potentially mitigate the risks associated with their altered physical characteristics. Furthermore, the pet industry surrounding these breeds has created communities of enthusiasts and hobbyists, fostering camaraderie and shared interest among humans. However, this view often faces staunch opposition from animal rights activists and many veterinary professionals who believe that the potential health complications and diminished quality of life experienced by these rabbits far outweigh the superficial benefits derived from their breeding. This ongoing controversy thus poses a pressing question on the ethics of pet ownership and animal breeding, calling for a reassessment of the values and priorities that govern these practices.
Opponents of extreme breeding recommend that you get a rabbit from a shelter instead of a breeder.
Which Rabbit to Choose
Choosing between a Teddy Lop and a Teddy Dwarf can indeed be a delightful dilemma for any prospective pet owner. Both these adorable breeds offer a rich blend of companionship, affection, and a dash of whimsy that can light up your home. The Teddy Lop, with its tender eyes and long, lop ears, promises gentle companionship and a plush friend to cuddle with. On the other hand, the lively Teddy Dwarf, with its short, perky ears and spirited demeanor, offers an energetic and vivacious companionship that’s bound to keep you on your toes. No matter your choice, providing them with a nurturing home, a balanced diet of quality pellets, fresh vegetables, and ample space to explore and play is key to a happy, healthy bunny life. So, as you stand on the cusp of welcoming a new furry member into your home, take a moment to ponder which of these wonderful breeds aligns with your lifestyle, and prepare yourself for countless moments of joy, laughter, and pure, unadulterated love.
Conclusion
As a potential pet owner, you have two splendid options here. While both the Teddy Dwarf and Teddy Lop breeds share certain features, such as a compact build and long fur, they do have distinct differences in head shape, ear structure, and ideal weights. Choose the one that resonates with your preferences, and you’ll have a loving furry companion to cherish. Remember, irrespective of the breed you choose, providing a loving home is the most important aspect of pet ownership.
FAQ’s
In English, males are called buck and females are called does. In German, males are called Rammler and Females are called Häsinnen
The Teddy Dwarf, also called the Teddyzwerg rabbit, originated in Germany in 2009, developed through the crossing of Angora and Lionhead rabbits.
The ideal weight for both male and female Teddy Dwarf rabbits is around 3 lb. (1350 grams), although weights between 1.75 and 3.75 lb (800 and 1700 grams) are also seen.
They are known for their short, cylindrical bodies, large marble eyes, and rounded, furry ears which measure between 2.0 to 2.5 inches (5.0 to 6.3 cm) in length that are erect. Their coat should be long but relatively easy to care for, not prone to quick matting.
Teddy Dwarfs are typically gentle and calm, making them excellent pets, especially for families with children.
Despite their long fur, the coat of a Teddy Dwarf is relatively easy to maintain. Regular grooming to prevent matting and remove loose hairs is usually sufficient.
The Teddy Lop, also known as TeddyWidder or European TeddyWidder, was developed in 2019 by the Teddy Rabbit Club in Germany through the breeding of a dwarf French Angora and a bearded rabbit.
The ideal weight of a Teddy Lop doe is between 3.5 and 4.2 pounds (1600 and 1900 grams), while for a male buck it’s between 3.3 and 4.0 lb (1500 and 1800 grams.)
Teddy Lop rabbits have a distinct appearance with a bulky head compared to their body, especially in males, and a slightly narrower head in females. They have broad shoulders, short strong neck, and a nicely curved spine. One special feature is their drooping ears that measure between 9.5 to 10.0 inches (24 to 26 cm) from tip to tip.
Teddy Lops are known for their gentle and calm personalities, similar to Teddy Dwarfs. Their unique appearance and friendly disposition make them particularly popular as pets.
The Teddy Lop’s coat, which can grow to be quite long, necessitates regular grooming. This will help to prevent the fur from matting and to keep the rabbit comfortable.
