A Complete Guide to the British Giant Rabbit

The British Giant is one of the UK’s most impressive rabbit breeds. Known for its substantial size, calm personality, and sturdy build, this gentle giant has become increasingly popular among rabbit enthusiasts looking for a large but affectionate companion. Although often overshadowed by the Continental and Flemish giants, the British Giant has its own unique history, charm, and care needs.

This blog post covers everything you need to know about the British Giant rabbit, including its origins, housing requirements, temperament, grooming needs, diet, health considerations, and whether this sizeable breed is right for your home.

The History of the British Giant

The British Giant was developed in the United Kingdom in the mid-20th century. It was selectively bred from large Flemish Giants, with the aim of creating a sizeable yet more standardised giant rabbit suited for British breeders and exhibitors.

Unlike the Continental Giant, which can reach extreme sizes, the British Giant is generally a little smaller and more manageable, making it an attractive option for people who want a giant rabbit without the largest possible size.

Key Characteristics of the British Giant

• Weight: 5–7.2 kg on average
• Body Type: Long, strong, and muscular
• Lifespan: 5–7 years
• Colours: A wide variety, including black, blue, white, opal, grey, steel, and more
• Temperament: Calm, gentle, steady, and affectionate
• Ears: Upright, strong ears proportionate to their body

Although slightly smaller than Continental or Flemish Giants, British Giants are still big rabbits and require appropriate care.

Personality and Temperament

British Giants are known for being docile, friendly, and easy-going. They are often described as:

• Gentle and patient
• Good with older children
• Relaxed and confident
• Social and people-oriented
• Curious, but not overly excitable

Their calm demeanour makes them excellent pets for dedicated owners who can provide the space and care they need.

Housing Requirements

British Giants need significantly more space than medium or dwarf breeds. Standard hutches are unsuitable for their size.

Indoor Housing

The ideal setup is:

• A free-roam room
• A large pen measuring at least 10 ft x 6 ft
• Access to additional exercise space daily

British Giants adapt well to indoor living and love spending time with their human family.

Outdoor Housing

If kept outdoors, housing should be:

• At least 6 ft x 3 ft for the hutch area
• A 10 ft x 6 ft run attached permanently
• Strong, predator-proof, and weather-resistant
• High enough for them to stand upright

Key Features for All Housing Types

• Soft flooring (to prevent sore hocks)
• Large litter trays
• Heavy-duty bowls and toys
• Hides and tunnels big enough for their size
• A cool space in summer and insulated space in winter

Space is essential. Restrictive housing leads to stress, obesity, and joint problems.

Diet and Nutrition

British Giants have hearty appetites and require a diet rich in fibre to support their digestive and dental health.

Hay – The Foundation of Their Diet

Hay should make up 80–90% of their daily intake:

• Timothy
• Meadow
• Orchard
• Ryegrass

Unlimited hay is essential for healthy digestion.

Fresh Greens

Feed 2–4 cups daily:

• Dandelion
• Spring greens
• Romaine lettuce
• Kale
• Coriander
• Parsley (sparingly)
• Mint, basil, rocket

Pellets

Choose high-fibre, timothy-based pellets.

Recommended amounts:

• Young British Giants: Larger portions to support growth
• Adults: 50–100 g per day

Avoid muesli-style mixes.

Healthy Treats (Occasional Only)

• Small pieces of carrot
• Herbs
• Apple slices
• Berries

Fresh water should always be available in heavy bowls or bottles.

Exercise and Enrichment

British Giants are calm but still active and curious. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Enrichment Ideas

• Large tunnels (dog-sized)
• Foraging mats
• Sturdy chew toys
• Dig boxes
• Platforms for climbing
• Secure outdoor time
• Cardboard castles
• Social interaction

A bored British Giant may chew, dig, or become lethargic.

Grooming and Coat Care

The British Giant has a short to medium coat that is relatively low-maintenance but still requires regular care.

Grooming Schedule

• Weekly brushing (more during moulting)
• Nail trims every 4–6 weeks
• Ear checks for wax build-up
• Fur checks around the rear to prevent matting or urine scald
• Extra grooming during heavy shedding seasons

Grooming also helps strengthen your bond with your rabbit.

Health Considerations

Like all large rabbit breeds, the British Giant can be prone to certain health issues.

Common Health Problems

• Sore hocks (pododermatitis)
• Obesity
• Arthritis
• Dental problems
• Gastrointestinal stasis
• Flystrike in warm months
• Respiratory issues

Essential Veterinary Care

• Annual vaccinations (myxomatosis, RHD1, RHD2)
• Weight checks
• Neutering (for health and bonding reasons)
• Regular health assessments

Giant rabbits benefit from rabbit-savvy vets with experience in large breeds.

Handling and Social Needs

British Giants are affectionate but do not usually enjoy being lifted. Their large size makes handling more challenging and potentially dangerous if done incorrectly.

Handling Tips

• Support the chest and hindquarters
• Keep them close to your body
• Avoid unnecessary lifting
• Sit or kneel while handling to prevent falls

British Giants thrive with companionship and form strong bonds with their owners and rabbit companions.

Ideal Companions

• Another British Giant
• Large, calm medium-sized breeds
• Neutered opposite-sex pairs are most successful

Careful bonding is essential.

Is a British Giant the Right Rabbit for You?

The British Giant can make a wonderful companion, but they are not suitable for every household.

Suitable For:

• Owners with plenty of indoor or outdoor space
• Experienced rabbit keepers
• Families with older children
• People who enjoy interactive, sociable pets
• Owners prepared for higher food, bedding, and vet costs

Not Suitable For:

• Small homes or flats
• First-time rabbit owners
• People unable to provide daily interaction
• Those who cannot safely lift or manage a large rabbit

The British Giant is rewarding but requires commitment.

Conclusion

The British Giant is a gentle, sociable, and striking rabbit breed that can become a beloved family member when given proper care. Their size means they need more space, more food, and more time than the average rabbit, but their warm personalities and steady temperament make them truly special companions.

With spacious housing, a hay-rich diet, daily enrichment, grooming, companionship, and access to rabbit-savvy veterinary care, British Giants can thrive and bring joy to their families for many years.