Rabbit DNA Testing & Genetic Testing for Breeders

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.

Netherland Dwarf rabbit representing rabbit DNA testing for breeders

Rabbit genetic tests available now

Little Haven offers individual tests for specific rabbit traits rather than a whole-genome genotype panel.

Rabbit Dilute Gene DNA Test

Distinguishes D/D non-carriers, D/d non-dilute carriers, and d/d dilute rabbits. $25.00 per sample.

View dilute test

Rabbit Dwarf Gene DNA Test

Reports dwarf gene status to support true dwarf versus false dwarf records and pairing decisions. $20.00 per sample.

View dwarf test

Rabbit DNA Sexing Test

Confirms buck or doe when physical sexing is uncertain, difficult, abnormal, or ambiguous. $10.00 per sample.

View sexing test


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

  1. Choose a specific test. Review the assay page, price, verified-breed notes, and limitations.
  2. Order online. Sign in or create an account, select quantities, and complete checkout.
  3. Enter rabbit details. Your portal guides you through identification, breed, variety, and sample information.
  4. Collect and mail the sample. Follow the rabbit instructions and label each clean, dry sample carefully.
  5. 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.

Order Rabbit DNA Tests


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
  • Eggshell membrane when that is the sample you collected

View rabbit sample instructions


Rabbit DNA testing FAQs

What sample is needed for rabbit DNA testing?
Accepted samples include blood on clean paper, a coffee filter, or a Q-tip, as well as eggshell membrane. 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 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 tests in development

Vienna, wooly, and chocolate gene assays are currently in development. They are not presented as available tests until validation supports release.

Research timing depends on suitable known samples and repeatable results, so release dates are not promised.

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.

Up to 10 rabbits per research order.
Validation progress
Research funds raised$25 of $5,000
Live Research Needs BoardUpdated by the lab
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Ready to test your rabbit?

Compare the assay pages above, then select the test and quantity you need in the existing secure ordering flow.

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