Bucks 12-15 lb, does 13-16 lb; ARBA maximum 16 lb. Wikipedia gives 12-16 lb (5.4-7.3 kg).
short flyback coat on a large commercial body
A big, heavy rabbit built for meat, with a long, well-filled body. Unlike the other Chinchilla breeds its fur is a flyback coat that snaps straight back into place, and lifting the silvery top coat shows several distinct colour bands in each hair, with a white belly.562
A laid-back, gentle giant that is happy to lounge and usually enjoys being handled once it is used to people. Its size makes it best for adults and families with children old enough to lift it safely.562
Fairly relaxed and not very demanding about exercise, but needs plenty of floor space for its size.65
Brush every couple of weeks, twice a week during the two yearly heavy moults, and trim nails regularly.56
A large enclosure with a solid floor and soft bedding such as hay or straw; LoveToKnow suggests a cage at least 6 ft long, PetGuide at least 3 x 3 x 4 ft. Works indoors or outdoors with shelter and good ventilation.652
Unlimited timothy or other grass hay as the base (about 70% of the diet), a measured amount of pellets for its weight, plus leafy greens, vegetables and a little fruit.56
Tame and people-friendly when gently socialised from an early age.6
Edward H. Stahl set out in 1921 to put the prized Chinchilla fur on the largest possible rabbit, crossing Chinchillas with big breeds such as Flemish Giants, New Zealand Whites and American Blues. On Christmas Day 1921 he produced his ideal doe, the 'Million Dollar Princess'. ARBA recognised the breed in 1928.126
It is nicknamed 'The Million Dollar Rabbit' because Edward Stahl is said to be the only person ever to earn a million dollars selling rabbit breeding stock.1
Stahl's ideal doe, born on Christmas Day 1921, was named the 'Million Dollar Princess'.2
Stahl is remembered as the 'Father of the Domestic Rabbit Industry in America'.2
It is the only Chinchilla breed with a flyback rather than a rollback coat.5
Young Giant Chinchillas grow so fast that they can reach about 7 lb at only two months old.2
A typical home-care rhythm for a Giant Chinchilla. 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
Your Giant Chinchilla needs unlimited timothy or other grass hay every day as the main part of its diet. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily and offer a measured amount of pellets plus leafy greens and a little fruit each day. For exact pellet amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.56 Pet Wiki plan
Feed unlimited grass hay (about 70% of the diet), measured pellets, leafy greens, vegetables, and a little fruit. Never give muesli mixes, avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, iceberg lettuce, lawnmower clippings, or processed human food. Always provide fresh water.5689
No, you should not bathe a Giant Chinchilla. Rabbits are fastidious groomers and bathing can cause stress and health issues. If the coat gets dirty, spot-clean with a damp cloth and consult your vet.
Yes, brush your Giant Chinchilla every couple of weeks, and twice a week during the two yearly heavy moults. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing weekly, and daily while moulting, to keep its short flyback coat in good condition.56 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails regularly, about every six weeks as per Furry Diary's starting plan. Check teeth weekly because they never stop growing; provide plenty of hay and safe wooden chews to help wear them down. If you see overgrowth or drooling, see a vet.56 Pet Wiki plan
This large rabbit needs plenty of floor space, with a cage at least 6 ft long or 3 x 3 x 4 ft, and a solid floor with soft bedding. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends at least 4 hours of free-roaming exercise daily in a safe area.652 Pet Wiki plan
Giant Chinchillas are tame and people-friendly when gently socialised, but they are social animals and often enjoy a neutered companion. Introduce any new rabbit slowly and under supervision; ask a good breeder or rescue for advice.6
A Giant Chinchilla typically lives between 7 and 10 years with proper care. Providing a good diet, regular vet check-ups, and a safe environment helps them reach the upper end of that range.56
Its laid-back, gentle nature makes it a good pet for adults and families with older children who can lift its heavy body safely. Always supervise interactions and teach children to handle it calmly.562
Support its entire body securely, with one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters, keeping it close to your body. Never lift by the ears or scruff, and let it get used to being handled gradually.
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.
American Chinchilla
Standard Chinchilla Rabbit
Chinchilla Giganta
Flemish Giant