Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed summary
The Havana is a compact, medium-sized rabbit prized for its deep glossy coat and even conformation. Qualitatively it is known for a calm, even-tempered disposition, a short dense fur with a pronounced sheen, and a cobby body type suited to both exhibition and as a pet. Quantitatively, adult Havanas typically weigh around 3.0–3.5 kg (approx. 6.6–7.7 lb), have a body length in the mid-30s cm range, and an average lifespan of about 5–8 years under good care.
Detailed origin
The Havana emerged in Europe in the late 19th century as a result of selective colour and type breeding. Sources attribute its early development to breeders in the Low Countries and neighbouring regions, where emphasis on uniform, rich brown colouring and compact conformation produced the distinct type. The breed spread to other European countries and to show communities abroad before the mid-20th century. Quantitatively, references to the Havana appear in breeders' records and early standards from the late 1800s; formal recognition by various national clubs occurred incrementally across the early 20th century.
Detailed description
Coat: short, dense and glossy with tight, even colouration — the original and most typical shade is a rich chestnut/brown, though modern standards in different registries also recognise black, blue and broken varieties. Body and head: compact, cobby body with broad shoulders and a rounded rump; head proportional and moderately rounded with well-set medium-length ears. Temperament and use: calm, relatively tolerant of handling, suitable for shows and as companion animals. Reproduction and care metrics: sexual maturity commonly reached at 4–6 months; average litter size typically 4–6 kits; gestation about 28–31 days. Feeding, housing and husbandry requirements are consistent with medium-sized domestic rabbits—balanced hay-based diet, daily exercise and routine veterinary care.