French Lop Rabbit: Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits

So, the lovely French Lop has caught your eye—it’s no wonder that you want more information! Whether you’re a brand-new pet parent or are just researching before you commit, educating yourself on the breed is a smart idea.

In this article, we discuss the various aspects of owning a French Lop so you can see if they’re a good fit.

The French Lop rabbit is often mistaken for the Flemish Giant because it is also extremely large. However, it does not quite get to the size of Flemish Giants and similar breeds. That said, these interesting, intelligent rabbits can learn a variety of tricks and commands. They also make the best snuggle buddies!

If you have been tossing around the idea of getting a pet bunny, you might have found the best option for your household with the French Lop. Let’s get to know more about this magnificent critter.

French Lop Breed Characteristics

How Much Do These Rabbits Cost?

Up front, a French Lop generally costs around $75. While pet stores might have a vast selection of rabbits, those aren’t necessarily the best places to buy one. First, many of these locations have employees who aren’t necessarily experts in the subject but are more generalists.

Instead, it’s best to buy from a breeder who specializes in the breed itself. That way, you can get a real-life account of how these rabbits are as pets and what special care is required to keep them.

The expenses don’t just stop after the purchase of the animal, though! The cost of the rabbit is one thing; the cost of all of its supplies is a totally different story.

Temperament & Intelligence of the French Lop

Like many giant breeds, the French Lop is an incredibly docile, good-natured rabbit. If you are looking for a starter pet for your child, don’t let the size of the French Lop intimidate you. This bunny is actually quite gentle with children and can make a great family pet.

These rabbits are intelligent. You can train them to do tricks or learn their name. You can even litter-train them to use the bathroom in a designated space. They can easily learn other simple words too.

The more time you spend teaching your rabbit, the more they will soak it up. You can be pretty hands-off with training and still be totally impressed with their mental capabilities.

Do These Rabbits Make Good Pets?👪

If you are trying to decide between certain rabbit breeds, the French Lop rabbit is a good choice, especially for beginners. These rabbits tend to be docile and easy to handle, making them the perfect pets for experienced children under direct supervision.

One fabulous thing about the French Lop is that it can make a mighty fine house pet. You can litter train it and let it out when you’re home without caging it. It can be a great way to bond, and most describe it as similar to having a dog or cat.

These rabbits can be great for first-time owners, but they should always be supervised around small children. They are large and can be hard to lift—or at least, lift properly. It would be best if you were always around to ensure that all was well.

Does This Rabbit Get Along With Other Pets?

The French Lop will generally get along well with other rabbits of similar size. However, it won’t necessarily make the best playmate for other animals in the home in general. Large, loud, or active animals might frighten your rabbit, which could cause sudden heart failure.

It might do decently well with a well-behaved small dog or cat. However, direct supervision is always a must if the two are together for any amount of time (no matter how used to each other they get).

You should never have a singular rabbit. It will get lonely and long for the companionship of its own species. If you commit to one rabbit, get another of either the same breed or size. A major difference in size can result in bullying and power struggles.

Things to Know When Owning a French Lop

Food & Diet Requirements🥕

The ultimate diet you choose for your French Lop will depend greatly on its lifestyle, activity level, age, and weight. It would be best if you always spoke with your veterinarian about the best diet for your particular rabbit. Regardless of the exact amount you should feed your pet, getting a high-quality, nutrient-dense recipe is absolutely essential.

Hay is a crucial aspect of your rabbit’s diet. It provides it with the fiber that it requires to regulate their digestive tract. Rabbits can be extremely temperamental in this regard, succumbing to several gastrointestinal issues.

Always make sure your pet has high-quality hay that is explicitly recommended for rabbits. Over 70% of your rabbit’s daily diet should be hay, so it’s extremely important to provide consistency and quality.

Not all rabbits require supplementation, but if you choose to give anything to your pet, clear any additional dietary boosts with your vet. They will discuss safety and benefits with you in detail.

Habitat & Hutch/Enclosure Requirements 🏠

You will want your rabbit to have enough space. Tiny enclosures for pet rabbits might be sold on the market, but that doesn’t mean those are suitable. Since these rabbits get so large, they need adequate homes to accommodate their exercise needs.

One French Lop needs a hutch that is at least 6 feet long x 3 feet deep x 2 feet high. Some people choose to let their rabbits go in or out at their leisure in the home. Others choose to house their rabbits outside.

Many folks buy playpens for their bunnies too. This is usually a foldable design that is quick to set up and take down as needed. It also gives you a way to control where your pet goes during floor time so you can keep track of it better.

Exercise & Sleeping Needs🐇

In the wild, rabbits run around at their leisure. On average, a rabbit travels up to 3 miles per day. So, they don’t want to stay cooped up in the house all day. Let your pet out to explore, and look for ways to give it more exercise options.

You can make ramps, mazes, and plenty of DIY toys for it to enjoy. You can have your own little stash of rabbit entertainment for cage and floor time use.

Training 🥎

Your rabbit is quite capable of learning a variety of concepts. You can even litter train it to use a box like a cat. Many rabbit owners choose to let their bunnies free roam in the house while they’re at home.

The French Lop can pick up various concepts, from simple to moderately complex. It will also love figuring out mazes and playing other games out of the enclosure.

Grooming✂️

Rabbits are meticulous groomers, so taking care of them should be rather simple. At most, you should help your pet out by brushing it once per week. During bulk seasons, you’ll likely have to increase the frequency to daily brushing.

Bathing your bunny is unnecessary and can stress it out. Always limit or avoid full-body baths. You can easily wipe your pet down with a cloth, especially on the hocks. These can get clogged with urine and fecal matter, which can cause disease.

Lifespan and Health Conditions🏥

Understanding the various health issues your rabbit could face can be difficult. Rabbits are prey animals, so for their own protection, they often don’t show signs of sickness until it is advanced. If you notice that your pet is acting strange, it is important to get it vet care right away, as this could mean life or death for your animal.

Male vs. Female

When deciding to buy a male or female rabbit, it’s important to understand that each rabbit will have its own personality. Sex doesn’t necessarily dictate that trait.

That said, female French Lops tend to be more adventurous and on-the-go. Males are a bit more lackadaisical and calm. So, even though both are great, a male might be better for families looking for a calmer rabbit, and a female might be better for experienced owners.

Males can also get substantially larger than their female counterparts.

3 Little-Known Facts About French Lops

1. They’re Heavy

French Lops generally weigh around 10–15 pounds as adults.

2. They Have Unique Coats

The French Lop can have two coat patterns: solid or broken.

3. They’re Not Always Comfortable Being Held

French Lops can be difficult for some people to handle due to their size.

Final Thoughts

French Lop rabbits are wonderful pets in the right home situations. They are capable of learning advanced tasks like potty training, so they can be out with you anytime! You’re sure to love the extra company without the poop cleanup.

If you are looking for a large rabbit and you have the space, the French Lop is part of a lineup of gentle giants that can add companionship and entertainment to your household.

Featured Image Credit: Anton Nikitinskiy, Shutterstock