How Do You Show A Mini Lop Rabbit?
Showing mini lop rabbits involves participating in rabbit shows where judges evaluate the rabbits based on breed standards. You can show your rabbit through 4-H or FFA if you are a youth or in local rabbit shows or jackpots as an adult. If you're interested in showing your mini lop, here are some general steps to get started:
1. Research the Breed Standard:
- Familiarize yourself with the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) standards for mini lop rabbits. These standards outline the ideal characteristics for the breed, including size, color, fur type, and other features. It’s a good idea to become a member of the ARBA plus the ARBA recognized Mini Lop Association— the American Mini Lop Association. Infact, if you become a member of the club they will send a Mini Lop Standard of Perfection (SOP) just for joining!
2. Choose a Quality Rabbit:
- Select a mini lop rabbit that closely matches the breed standard. Look for desirable traits such as good head and crown placement (very important in mini lops), proper ear carriage, and correct body type. If you're unsure, seek guidance from experienced breeders or mentors. Show quality rabbits will come from rabbitries who show thier rabbits and should come with a pedgiree, infact most 4-H programs require the rabbit to have a pedigree in order to be shown. We are happy to mentor people who get Mini Lop rabbits from us!
3. Register Your Rabbit:
- While is not a requirement, its a good way for the ARBA to keep track of the number of rabbits in the breed. Register your mini lop with ARBA or any relevant rabbit registry in your country. This step is NOT essential for participating in recognized rabbit shows.
4. Find Local Shows:
- Locate rabbit shows in your area. Many regions have ARBA-sanctioned shows where you can exhibit your mini lop. Check the ARBA website or contact local rabbit clubs for information on upcoming shows. Unfortunatly, New Mexico does not currently have an ARBA club. We do however host one ARBA show through the New Mexico State Fair. Other places to show include Co, Tx, and Az. All within a 4-6 hour drive from ABQ. On the other hand, 4-H kids, and many adults, can show their animals at their county fairs. Please call your county extention office for more information as each county is has differnt requirements.
5. Prepare Your Rabbit:
- Feed your rabbits a balanced nutritous diet. Rabbits need pellets and roughage to have a healthy gut and good fur. Feed veggies and fruits as a rare treat. Mini Lops can get too chunky quick, and if they are above weight they will be disqualified.
-Groom your mini lop to ensure it looks its best on show day. This includes brushing its fur, checking its ears and eyes, and trimming nails. Make sure your rabbit is comfortable with being handled and being posed.
6. Train for Pose and Handling:
- Practice posing your rabbit according to the breed standard. Rabbits are usually posed on a table, and judges will examine them closely. Get your rabbit used to being handled and standing in a proper show pose.
7. Attend a Show as a Spectator:
- Before exhibiting your mini lop, attend a rabbit show as a spectator to observe how things work. Pay attention to how exhibitors present their rabbits, and listen to the judges' comments.
8. Enter a Show:
- When you feel ready, enter your mini lop in a local rabbit show. Most show secretaries will offer a discount if you enter your rabbit early. Every show has a secretay so feel free to reach out if you are not sure how to enter your rabbit. It’s much easier to do this in advance and then make small changes on show day if neccessary.
9. Learn from the Experience:
- Take the opportunity to learn from the judging process. Judges often provide feedback on the rabbits they evaluate. Use this feedback to improve your understanding of the breed standard and to enhance your future show entries.
Remember, showing rabbits is a hobby that requires dedication, learning, and a genuine love for the animals. Enjoy the experience, and take pride in showcasing your mini lop rabbit to the best of your ability.
2024 Kids who are showing with rabbits from The Harvest Trail Rabbitry.
Our kiddo, Sylus Roy and is rabbit showing accomplishments for 2023.
Erin Roy, 2023, Rabbit Show Accomplishments.
2023 Kids who are showing rabbits from The Harvest Trail Rabbitry.
2022 Kids who are showing rabbits from The Harvest Trail Rabbitry.
