No copies of dilute and cannot pass a dilute allele.
Rabbit Dilute Gene DNA Test
Identify dilute status for breeding plans and genetic records
This rabbit color genetics test reports whether a rabbit has zero, one, or two copies of the recessive dilute allele. It can identify visually non-dilute rabbits that silently carry dilute and help breeders plan color outcomes with better records.
$25.00
Order This Test
Important breed-validation notice
This test is currently validated only on Netherland Dwarf, Polish, and Britannia Petite rabbits.
The test should work across most rabbit breeds, but a breed that has not yet been validated may not produce a successful result. The validated-breed list will be updated as additional breeds are confirmed.
For a non-validated breed, we recommend submitting known non-carrier, heterozygous (split) carrier, and visible homozygous dilute controls along with your samples.
Any unsuccessful test will be returned to your account as a replacement Rabbit Dilute test credit.
You must agree to this notice on the order form before purchasing the test.
What the rabbit dilute gene changes
Dilute is recessive, so a rabbit needs two dilute copies to express the diluted color. In familiar breeder terms, dilute can change black to blue and chocolate to lilac. Other genes still influence the rabbit's complete color.
Because a D/d carrier usually looks non-dilute, appearance alone cannot reliably separate that carrier from a D/D non-carrier. A rabbit dilute DNA test can answer that specific question.
Understanding your result
One copy of dilute; visually non-dilute but can pass dilute to offspring.
Two copies of dilute and expresses a diluted color.
Who should consider dilute carrier testing
Consider testing when a non-dilute rabbit has dilute relatives, when an unexpected dilute appears in a litter, when you are planning black-to-blue or chocolate-to-lilac projects, or when carrier status changes a pairing decision.
This is an individual trait test, not a whole-genome color panel, and it does not determine every gene affecting coat color.
Sample, ordering, and turnaround
For each rabbit, provide its ear tag or identification, breed, variety, and sample type.
You do not need to know or enter the rabbit's dilute status for this paid test.
Accepted rabbit sample types include blood on coffee filter, clean paper, or a Q-tip, as well as eggshell membrane. Follow the rabbit sample collection and mailing instructions before sending samples.
Status updates and results appear in your customer portal. The current turnaround for the paid dilute test is 2–3 days after the sample is received by Little Haven DNA.
Order the Rabbit Dilute TestRabbit dilute testing FAQs
Can a black rabbit carry dilute?
Yes. A black rabbit can be D/d: visually non-dilute while carrying one recessive dilute copy.
Can two non-dilute rabbits produce dilute offspring?
Yes. If both are D/d carriers, each can pass its dilute copy and produce d/d offspring.
How do I know if my rabbit carries dilute?
Pedigree and breeding outcomes may suggest carrier status, but this test distinguishes D/D non-carriers from D/d carriers for the tested dilute variant.
What does D/d mean in rabbits?
D/d means non-dilute in appearance with one recessive dilute copy that may be passed to offspring.