Wikipedia gives 7-9 lb (about 3-4 kg); the German standard gives 3.25-4 kg.
short, glossy normal fur
A medium, erect-eared rabbit wearing a short coat of deep, shiny black. The goal is an even black all over, and the whole look is built around that single rich colour.132
Rabbits keep themselves clean, so routine care is mostly regular hands-on checks of coat, nails and teeth.4
Needs a secure living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m so it can hop, play, stretch, hide and exercise, with toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.4
Hay should form the foundation of the diet, as constant chewing keeps the teeth worn down, with fresh leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets alongside. Carrots are best kept as an occasional treat.4
A social animal that should live with at least one other rabbit; a neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match.4
German breeders around 1900 set out to produce a rabbit whose fur would pass for that of a fox, crossing Havanas, Dutch, Himalayans and Champagne d'Argents among others. The fox-like coat never materialised, but a striking solid black rabbit did, and it was first exhibited in 1907. It reached North America in the 1970s and remains recognised in Britain today.12
The breed was meant to imitate fox fur for the fur trade; the breeders missed that target and got a jet-black rabbit instead.1
Its name nods to the black Alaska fox that the breeders were trying to copy.2
It was first shown at an exhibition in 1907.1
Canadian breeder Bert Reurs brought the Alaska to North America in the 1970s.1
A typical home-care rhythm for an Alaska Rabbit. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Encourages rabbits to eat more hay while giving them a tasty treat.
How much: One skewer per rabbit per day
Recipe from PDSA
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Feed unlimited hay every day, plus a daily portion of fresh leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily. For exact amounts, check the food label and consult your vet.45 Pet Wiki plan
The diet should be mostly hay, with fresh leafy greens and a small amount of pellets. Avoid dangerous foods like avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, and iceberg lettuce. Carrots are only occasional treats. Always provide fresh water.456
Rabbits keep themselves clean, so bathing is not needed and can be stressful. Routine care is mostly regular hands-on checks of the coat. A warm, dry environment is all they need.4
Yes, brushing once a week is usually enough, but daily during moulting seasons. This helps keep the short, glossy coat in good condition. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing.132 Pet Wiki plan
Check teeth weekly as they grow continuously, and trim nails about every six weeks. Provide unlimited hay to help wear down teeth naturally. For nail trimming, ask your vet for guidance.4 Pet Wiki plan
They need a large secure living area of at least 3m by 2m by 1m, plus at least 4 hours of free-roaming exercise daily. Provide toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.4 Pet Wiki plan
Alaska Rabbits are social and should live with at least one other rabbit. A neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match. They thrive with company.4
Lifespan varies by individual and care; consult your vet for specific information. With good care, they can live many happy years.
Suitability for children depends on the rabbit's personality and the child's age. Talk to a good breeder for advice on temperament and handling.
Proper handling is important to avoid injury. Always support the hindquarters. Ask your vet or a good breeder to show you the correct technique.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
Havana Brown
Dutch
Champagne d'Argent
Beveren