Rabbit Dwarf Gene DNA Test
Understand dwarf genetics for breeding and show planning
This test reports rabbit dwarf gene status so breeders can distinguish true dwarf from false dwarf, keep cleaner records, and plan litters with better predictability.
Helpful for herd development, pedigreed lines, junior retention decisions, and breeding programs focused on consistent type and health.
Why breeders use this test
- Breeding pair selection
- Pedigree and line tracking
- Litter outcome planning
- Show program decisions
- Replacement and keeper choices
- More confident genetic records
This test applies to rabbits
About the dwarf gene and breeder decisions
The dwarf gene plays a major role in type and breeding outcomes in dwarf breeds and dwarf-based programs.
Knowing dwarf status reduces guesswork, supports planned matings, and helps keep show and brood records clear.
DNA results can be used alongside pedigree data and phenotype observations to guide long term line decisions.
This test can also be used on tiny babies so informed decisions can be made early.
True dwarf vs. false dwarf results
Notation used by Little Haven: Dw is the dwarf-associated allele and dw is the non-dwarf allele. This allele key matters because published sources do not all use the same capitalization convention.
dw/dw — false dwarf: no dwarf gene copy detected.
Dw/dw — true dwarf: one dwarf gene copy detected.
Dw/Dw — peanut: two dwarf gene copies detected; the site's test documentation identifies this as the homozygous peanut result.
What this assay does not determine
This is an individual gene test. It does not grade body type, predict show wins, evaluate every health factor, or replace pedigree and phenotype records.
A result should be used as one piece of information for pairing, keeper, placement, and record-keeping decisions.
Practical value for rabbit breeders
- Identify true versus false dwarfs early
- Make informed keeper and placement decisions
- Plan breeding pairs intentionally
- Build stronger brood programs
- Understand your lines on a genetic level
Sample requirements and collection
For each rabbit, submit Ear tag or Identification, Breed and variety, and sample type.
Accepted sample types are blood on paper, Q-tip, or coffee filter, or eggshell membrane.
Follow the rabbit DNA sample collection instructions before mailing.
Turnaround time
Most rabbit dwarf results are ready within up to 4 days after samples arrive at Little Haven DNA.
You will receive email updates when samples are logged and when results are ready in your portal.