Bucks 9-11 lb (about 4.1-5.0 kg), does 10-12 lb (about 4.5-5.4 kg) per Wikipedia; ARBA maximum 12 lb.
dense standing fur
A large commercial-type rabbit with very dense fur about 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) long. The coat is unusual: stroke it from tail to head and it stays standing upright until smoothed back. Silver-tipped and white hairs are scattered evenly through the dark coat, giving it a bright, frosted look similar to the pelt of a silver fox.321
A large, docile and even-tempered rabbit that usually enjoys attention and handling. It is often recommended for first-time keepers and families, and does are known as excellent mothers and foster mothers.134
Needs regular time out of its enclosure to explore and stretch; as a large breed it needs more room than average.45
Brush about every two weeks with a slicker brush outside moulting season and more often while it moults. Spot-clean with a damp cloth rather than bathing. Trim nails regularly.4
Needs a large enclosure with soft bedding on solid flooring rather than wire, spot-cleaned daily and fully changed weekly. Welfare guidance asks for enough height to stand upright and room for several hops in a row.45
Plenty of good grass hay should form the bulk of the diet (breed guides suggest about 70%), with fresh water always available, a daily helping of leafy greens and a measured portion of quality pellets.46
Rabbits are social animals and do best living with at least one compatible rabbit companion, plus regular calm daily contact with their people.64
Walter B. Garland of Ohio developed the breed in the early 20th century, probably from Checkered Giants, Champagne d'Argent and possibly American Blue rabbits, though the exact mix is uncertain. Approved as the American Heavyweight Silver in 1925, it took the Silver Fox name in 1929.31
It is the only ARBA breed with standing fur: stroked backwards, the coat stays up until smoothed down again.1
It started out as the 'American Heavyweight Silver' and was renamed in 1929.2
Chocolate became an official ARBA colour in 2021, joining black.1
Does usually raise litters of 6-8 kits and are prized as foster mothers.3
It appears in Slow Food USA's Ark of Taste catalogue of heritage foods.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Silver Fox Rabbit. 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
Provide unlimited grass hay every day, along with a daily portion of leafy greens and a measured amount of quality pellets. Fresh water should always be available. For exact pellet amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.46 Pet Wiki plan
The diet should be mostly good grass hay, with daily leafy greens and a small measured portion of pellets. Avoid dangerous foods like avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and muesli mixes. Always provide fresh water.4678
No, you should not bathe a Silver Fox Rabbit. Instead, spot-clean with a damp cloth if needed. Bathing can stress them and damage their coat.4
Yes, brush your Silver Fox Rabbit about every two weeks with a slicker brush, and more often during moulting. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, daily while moulting.4 Pet Wiki plan
Trim your rabbit's nails regularly, about every six weeks as per Furry Diary's plan. Check their teeth weekly because they never stop growing; provide hay to help wear them down. Consult a vet for any issues.4 Pet Wiki plan
Provide a large enclosure with solid flooring and soft bedding, tall enough to stand upright and long enough for several hops. Give at least 4 hours of supervised free-roam time daily for exercise.45 Pet Wiki plan
Silver Fox Rabbits are social and do best with at least one compatible rabbit friend. They also enjoy calm daily interaction with their human family.64
A Silver Fox Rabbit typically lives between 5 and 8 years with proper care.4
Yes, the Silver Fox Rabbit is often recommended for families and first-time keepers due to its docile, even-tempered nature. They usually enjoy attention and handling, making them a good pet for children with adult supervision.134
Proper handling varies by rabbit; always support the hindquarters and never lift by the ears. For specific techniques, ask your vet or a good breeder.
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.
Champagne d'Argent
Checkered Giant
Silver Marten
American Chinchilla