5-8 lb (2.3-3.6 kg); ARBA maximum 8 lb.
short, dense flyback coat on a full-arch, racy body
An athletic, full-arch rabbit with long slim legs and rounded hips; when posed it stands up high enough to show a gap under its belly. The white coat is short and dense, decorated with a butterfly-shaped nose mark, eye circles, cheek spots, coloured ears, a line down the spine and a chain of spots along each side.142
A lively, inquisitive rabbit that is friendly and affectionate, with just enough cheek to keep things interesting. Generations of show handling have made it comfortable around people.12
An energetic, running breed; PetGuide suggests at least 1-2 hours a day outside the enclosure, and more free time is welcome.245
Brush the short coat every week or two with a slicker brush, more often while it is moulting.2
The RSPCA recommends a living area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high so a rabbit can hop, stretch, hide and play; a hutch or cage works only as a base alongside a large run or daily free-roam time. Use solid flooring with soft bedding, spot-clean daily and change bedding weekly. Give this rangy breed plenty of room to stretch out.52
About 70 percent hay, with leafy greens, vegetables, a measured portion of pellets, occasional fruit and fresh water at all times.25
Rabbits are a highly social species and the RSPCA advises they should not live alone; a compatible, neutered rabbit companion plus regular gentle time with people suits them best. English Spots suit singles, couples, families and seniors alike.52
The English Spot was developed in England in the 1800s, probably from the English Butterfly or a Checkered Giant-type rabbit, and was bred mainly for the show table, which was unusual at the time. It reached North America around 1910 (ARBA notes an appearance in 1890), and the American English Spot Rabbit Club was founded in 1924.124
Its pattern has six named parts: the butterfly, eye circles, cheek spots, coloured ears, herringbone and a chain of side spots.1
When posed it lifts its front end so you can see daylight under its belly.1
English Spot does are known as good foster mothers and often raise litters from other breeds.1
Breeding two marked English Spots gives on average about half fully marked kits, a quarter solid-coloured and a quarter lightly marked.1
In French it is called the Lapin Papillon Anglais, the English Butterfly Rabbit.1
A typical home-care rhythm for an English Spot. 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 your English Spot unlimited hay every day, plus a daily portion of leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets. For exact pellet amounts, check the food label and ask your vet. Fresh water must always be available.256 Pet Wiki plan
Your English Spot's diet should be mostly hay, with daily leafy greens and a small portion of pellets. Dangerous foods include avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and anything with xylitol. Never give muesli mixes, dairy, or processed human food.2567
Bathing is not recommended for rabbits; they keep themselves clean. If your English Spot gets dirty, spot-clean with a damp cloth. For specific guidance, ask your vet.
Yes, brush your English Spot's short coat every week or two with a slicker brush, and more often during moulting. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, daily while moulting.2 Pet Wiki plan
Trim your English Spot's nails about every six weeks, and check their teeth weekly because they grow continuously. Provide hay and safe chew toys to help wear down teeth. For exact nail trimming technique, ask your vet. Pet Wiki plan
Your energetic English Spot needs at least 1-2 hours of exercise outside their enclosure daily, and Furry Diary suggests at least 4 hours of running space. Their living area should be at least 3m x 2m x 1m high, with solid flooring and soft bedding.25 Pet Wiki plan
English Spots are social and do best with a neutered rabbit companion, plus daily gentle time with you. They can adapt to various households, but should not live alone.52
An English Spot typically lives 5 to 9 years with proper care.2
Yes, English Spots are friendly and affectionate, and they suit families with children. Always supervise interactions to keep both child and rabbit safe.2
Always support your English Spot's hindquarters and hold them securely against your body. Never lift by the ears or scruff. For detailed handling tips, ask your vet or a good breeder.
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.
Checkered Giant
Rhinelander
Dutch
Harlequin Rabbit