Oryctolagus cuniculus
Also called Zwergschecke (German), Nain Papillon (French), Dwarf Check
From Germany, where it is known as the Zwergschecke ('Dwarf Check'); foundation stock for the US came from France and Switzerland. Everbreed instead credits France.123
Everbreed: 2.5-4 lb; PetsRadar: maximum 4.5 lb.
short normal fur on a compact, rounded dwarf body
A small, compact and rounded rabbit with medium-length upright ears. It wears the classic 'papillon' pattern on a white coat: a butterfly over the nose, rings round the eyes, cheek spots, a stripe along the spine and spots on the sides.321
A friendly, curious little rabbit that likes company and picks things up quickly, so it responds well to gentle training and interaction.3
Small but lively: give it daily supervised time outside its enclosure plus toys and things to explore.34
Weekly brushing and regular nail trims keep the short coat tidy.3
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 alone is not enough and should be combined with a large run or daily free-roam time. Even dwarf breeds need this space; the Dwarf Papillon suits indoor living well.43
Hay as the bulk of the diet, plus good pellets in small amounts, fresh vegetables and constant water.34
Rabbits are a highly social species and the RSPCA advises keeping them with at least one compatible, neutered rabbit companion, plus calm, regular time with people. The breed is described as thriving on companionship.43
The breed descends from the German Zwergschecke, a dwarf version of the classic butterfly-marked rabbit. After Papillons were shown at the 2015 Europa show in Metz, US breeders imported foundation stock from France and Switzerland, and ARBA recognised the Chocolate Dwarf Papillon in 2020.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Dwarf Papillon. 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 unlimited hay every day, plus a small portion of pellets and fresh leafy greens daily. Always provide fresh water. For exact pellet amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.345 Pet Wiki plan
The main diet should be unlimited hay, a small amount of pellets, and a handful of safe leafy greens daily. Avoid avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, muesli mixes, and processed human food. Always check with your vet for a full list.3456
Rabbits generally do not need baths; they keep themselves clean. If your rabbit gets dirty, consult a vet for safe cleaning methods.
Yes, brush your Dwarf Papillon weekly to keep its short coat tidy, and daily during heavy moulting periods.3 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails every six weeks or as needed, and check teeth weekly since they never stop growing. Provide hay and chew toys to help wear teeth down. Ask your vet for nail trimming guidance.3 Pet Wiki plan
Your Dwarf Papillon needs a living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m, plus daily supervised free-roam time of at least four hours. Even dwarf breeds need this space to hop, stretch, and play.34 Pet Wiki plan
Dwarf Papillons are very social and should live with at least one neutered rabbit friend. They also enjoy calm, regular time with people.34
Lifespan varies; ask a good breeder or your vet for typical expectations. Provide good care for a long, happy life.
This breed is friendly and curious, making it a good match for gentle, supervised interactions with children. Always teach children to handle rabbits calmly and never pick them up by the ears.3
Rabbits need careful handling; always support the hindquarters and never pick them up by the ears. Ask your vet or a good breeder to show you the safest way.
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? [email protected].
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
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