Californian
A sturdy white rabbit with dark points, developed in Southern California in the 1920s.
Origin
George S. West of Lynwood, California, began developing the Californian around 1923. He crossed Himalayan and Standard Chinchilla rabbits for fur quality and the Himalayan’s dark-pointed pattern, then bred the result into New Zealand Whites to add a solid, commercial body. The breed was first shown in 1928, appeared at the ARBA Convention in 1932, received a working standard in 1939, and had a full standard accepted in 1949.
Typical Adult Size
A medium-large, solidly built rabbit. Senior bucks generally weigh about 8 to 10 pounds and does a little more, about 8½ to 10½ pounds (roughly 3.6 to 4.8 kg). ARBA sets a maximum of 10½ pounds; the British standard asks for around 9½ pounds.
Coat Type
Short, dense fur with plenty of undercoat and coarser guard hairs. Stroked against the grain, it should spring back into place.
Colors
A pure white body with colored "points" on the nose (called the smut), ears, feet and tail, and pink eyes. ARBA recognizes black points only, while the British Rabbit Council also accepts chocolate, blue and lilac points.
Temperament
Generally calm, steady and easy to handle, which is part of the reason the breed is so widely kept. Personalities vary, but many Californians are relaxed and good-natured with regular, gentle handling.
Grooming and Care
The short coat needs little more than a weekly brush, with extra attention during molts. As a heavier rabbit, a Californian needs a roomy enclosure, daily exercise space and soft, solid resting areas to protect its feet.
Distinctive Features
Himalayan-style markings on a big, well-muscled body: full shoulders, deep hindquarters, and a medium-length body that is as deep as it is wide over the hips. The crisp contrast of white coat and dark points makes it easy to recognize.
What Makes It Notable
The Californian was developed as a commercial rabbit, valued for both its meat and its pelt, and it remains one of the most popular breeds in the ARBA, competitive on show tables across the country. Its classic look now also comes in a smaller size: the Mini Californian was recently recognized as ARBA’s 53rd breed.