The American Polish rabbit has its roots in the British Polish breed, from which it takes its name. It is a compact, rounded rabbit, somewhat calmer in temperament than most dwarf breeds.
The American Polish rabbit has its roots in the British Polish breed, from which it takes its name. These white rabbits originated in Britain in the mid 19th century and were named for the 'polish' of their shiny coats. They are thought to derive from mixed breeds (probably small wild rabbits crossed with albino Dutch and Silvers). Despite their small size, Polish were bred for the table and considered a delicacy. Commonly reffered to as 'hutch rabbits', they were first imported to the United States around 1912, where breeders sought to improve their 'snaky' type. The American Polish was selectively bred to a more compact, rounded body type, while the Polish breed in the UK remained slender and hare-like (known as the Britannia Petite in the USA). The American Polish was at first bred only in White with red eyes (albino); crossing with Beverens produced a blue-eyed White variety, recognised in 1938. Several coloured varieties have since been developed and recognised.
The Polish rabbit is one of the smallest breeds weighing around 900g-1.6kg (2-3½ lbs) and a breed standard ideal weight of 1.1kg (2½ lbs).
The Polish has a compact, rounded body and a broad, slightly rounded head with bold, expressive eyes and small, upright ears.
The Polish has a smooth coat of short, fine hair.
White (red or blue-eyed), Black, Blue, Chocolate and Broken Pattern
The American Polish is somewhat calmer in temperament than most dwarf breeds. Polish rabbits are intelligent, curious and playful and enjoy attention.
Polish rabbits are usually fairly good with children; if handled gently, they can be friendly and sociable pets.