Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus
Also called Dalmatian Rex, Dalmatiner Rex
From Germany and France.1
Standard size 2.72-3.62 kg (about 6-8 lb); the mini rex version is 1.70-2.04 kg.
short, plush rex fur about 1.3 cm, with no protruding guard hairs; white with coloured spots
A graceful, well-balanced rex rabbit with a bold, broad head. Its short, velvety coat is mostly white and scattered with small coloured spots, much like a Dalmatian dog.23
A lively, friendly rabbit that enjoys having things to do and people to interact with.1
Quite active, so it needs generous daily free time in a safe, roomy area.14
Rex fur is short and dense and needs little work; a gentle brush or a wipe with a damp cloth once or twice a week is usually enough. Trim nails every few weeks.5
Welfare guidance asks for a combined shelter and exercise area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high for a pair of medium rabbits, tall enough to stand up on the back legs and long enough to stretch out fully.4
Unlimited hay or grass should form the bulk of the diet, with fresh water always available, plus some leafy greens and a small measured portion of pellets.4
A sociable animal that should share its home with at least one compatible rabbit, plus regular gentle time with people.4
The Dalmatian is a spotted rex rabbit with roots in Germany and France. A dwarf rex version with Dalmatian spotting was shown in Germany by Karl Erne in 1974, and today the breed is kept in the UK in both standard and mini rex sizes.132
Its spotted coat is meant to look like a Dalmatian dog's, with at least three spots on each side of the body.3
Unlike most rex breeds, it has no normal-furred twin breed with the same pattern.3
Spotted dwarf rex rabbits were presented by German breeder Karl Erne in 1974.3
UK standards recognise solid, bi-colour and tri-colour spotting patterns.2
A typical home-care rhythm for a Dalmatian 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
Your Dalmatian Rabbit needs unlimited hay or grass every day, plus a small measured portion of pellets and some leafy greens. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily. Always follow the food label and check with your vet for exact amounts.46 Pet Wiki plan
The diet should be mostly unlimited hay or grass, with leafy greens and a small measured portion of pellets. Avoid avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, muesli mixes, and any processed human food. Always provide fresh water.467
No, rabbits should not be bathed as it can cause stress and health issues. Instead, keep their fur clean with gentle brushing and spot cleaning if needed. If the fur around the tail gets dirty, check daily and clean with a damp cloth.5 Pet Wiki plan
Yes, a gentle brush or wipe with a damp cloth once or twice a week is usually enough, but daily brushing is recommended during moulting. Their short rex fur is low-maintenance.5 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails every few weeks, and check teeth weekly as they never stop growing. Provide plenty of hay to help wear down teeth naturally. Furry Diary's plan suggests a nail trim every 6 weeks and a weekly teeth check.5 Pet Wiki plan
A pair of medium rabbits needs a combined shelter and exercise area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high, with room to stand up and stretch out. They also need at least 4 hours of free-roam time daily.4 Pet Wiki plan
They are sociable and should share their home with at least one compatible rabbit, plus regular gentle time with people. A bonded pair is ideal for their well-being.4
The lifespan varies, but with proper care, rabbits can live 8 to 12 years. For specific information, ask your vet or a good breeder.
They are lively and friendly, enjoying interaction, so they can be good for children with gentle handling and supervision. Always teach children to respect the rabbit's space and needs.1
Always support the rabbit's hindquarters and back fully, never lift by the ears or scruff. Hold them securely and calmly, and let them feel safe. For detailed guidance, ask a vet or experienced rabbit owner.
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.
Rex Rabbit
Mini Rex
English Spot
Checkered Giant