Giant Chinchilla
The "Million Dollar Rabbit", a big, gentle giant in soft chinchilla gray.
Origin
The Giant Chinchilla was developed in the United States by Edward H. Stahl, who began work in 1921 to produce chinchilla fur on the largest possible pelt. He used Chinchilla rabbits crossed with larger breeds, including Flemish Giants. ARBA recognized the breed in 1928.
Typical Adult Size
A giant breed with an ARBA maximum weight of 16 pounds (about 7.3 kg).
Coat Type
Dense, soft rollback fur.
Colors
One color only: chinchilla, with a slate-blue undercolor, a pearl band and black ticking.
Temperament
Usually docile and calm, a gentle giant that is easy to handle for its size.
Grooming and Care
Grooming is simple, but space is not. It needs a large enclosure, daily exercise, solid footing and soft resting areas to protect its feet and hocks.
Distinctive Features
A long, well-filled body of impressive size, with the classic chinchilla coat.
What Makes It Notable
Edward Stahl is said to be the first person to earn a million dollars selling rabbit breeding stock, which gave the Giant Chinchilla its nickname, "the Million Dollar Rabbit". The Livestock Conservancy lists it as a conservation priority.