Individual rabbit tests for practical breeding questions
Rabbit genetic testing examines specific DNA variants connected to a trait or biological sex.
Breeders use these focused results alongside phenotype, pedigree, and breeding history to make more informed decisions.
These gene tests are currently in development. They are not available to order until validation supports release.
Research timing depends on suitable known samples and repeatable results, so release dates are not promised.
Why rabbit breeders use DNA testing
Find hidden carriers
Recessive traits may be carried without being visible. A focused test can distinguish a carrier from a non-carrier for the tested variant.
Plan pairings
Results can clarify possible inheritance outcomes and help breeders make intentional choices for a particular trait.
Improve breeder records
A laboratory result can add documented genotype or sex information to pedigree, litter, keeper, and placement records.
Resolve uncertainty
Testing is useful when appearance cannot answer a carrier question or physical sexing is difficult or ambiguous.
How rabbit DNA testing works
Choose a specific test. Review the assay page, price, verified-breed notes, and limitations.
Order online. Sign in or create an account, select quantities, and complete checkout.
Enter rabbit details. Your portal guides you through identification, breed, variety, and sample information.
Collect and mail the sample. Follow the rabbit instructions and label each clean, dry sample carefully.
View the result. The paid dilute test currently takes 2–3 days after the sample is received. Dwarf gene and DNA sexing state up to 4 days after samples arrive.
What rabbit genetic testing can—and cannot—tell you
Each assay answers a defined question about the tested marker or biological sex. It can support pairing and record decisions, but it cannot predict every trait in a litter.
Results do not replace evaluation of health, structure, temperament, pedigree, phenotype, or veterinary care. Breed-validation limits also matter; read each assay page before ordering.
Rabbit DNA sample requirements
Sample quality matters.
Clean samples improve the odds of a successful extraction and help reduce repeat work.
If you are mailing multiple rabbits, label everything clearly.
Blood samples as a small drop on clean paper, coffee filter, or a Q-tip
Accepted samples include blood on clean paper, a coffee filter, or a Q-tip. Follow the rabbit collection instructions. Samples must be dry, clean, and clearly labeled.
How long does rabbit DNA testing take?
The paid dilute test currently takes 2–3 days after the sample is received. Dwarf gene and DNA sexing state up to 4 days after samples arrive.
Does one test report all of my rabbit's genetics?
No. Little Haven currently offers individual tests for specific traits rather than a whole-genome genotype panel. Choose the assay that answers your breeding question.
Can you tell who my rabbit's parents are or what breed it is?
No. Little Haven's current tests and research cannot identify your rabbit's parents or tell you its breed.
We check selected DNA markers for specific questions, such as dilute or dwarf gene status and genetic sex. Our chocolate, Vienna, and wooly research also focuses on individual traits. Different breeds can share the same trait variants, so a trait result does not prove breed or family relationships.
Parentage testing would need a separate, validated set of DNA markers and DNA from the possible parents to compare. Breed identification would need a validated test and a suitable reference database of known-breed rabbits. Little Haven does not currently offer either service.
Can rabbit DNA testing replace pedigree and breeding records?
No. DNA results are most useful when combined with pedigree, phenotype, litter outcomes, and accurate herd records.
Which rabbit genetic tests are available?
Rabbit dilute, rabbit dwarf gene, and rabbit DNA sexing are currently available. Other trait assays remain in research and development.
Can I order more than one test for the same rabbit?
Yes. The order form lets you select multiple rabbit tests. Follow the portal instructions when assigning tests and samples.
Rabbit genetics research
Help build the next gene test
Follow live research needs, sponsor the work, or contribute a rabbit sample.
Active campaign
Dilute Gene Campaign
Help develop and validate a dependable rabbit dilute gene test to detect heterozygous carriers and homozygous dilute rabbits across breeds.
We welcome known dilute (homozygous / visual), known heterozygous carriers, known non-carriers, and unknown rabbits for comparison.
Important: research test in progress
Research is still in progress and this test is not completely validated. Customers may not receive a result if the test does not work for their rabbit's breed. DO NOT CULL or make irreversible breeding decisions based on research results. This is a work in progress.
