White Vienna Rabbit Breed Info: Pictures, Traits, & Facts

Vienna, Austria is home to this aptly-named breed – a stunning all-white rabbit, without the pink eyes that usually accompany that coat color. First breaking onto the rabbit showing scene at the turn of the 20th century, these rabbits are the result of breeders’ long-time fascination with producing a pure white rabbit with a more “natural” eye color.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the origins of the White Vienna, as well as comparing it to the similarly named Blue Vienna – and its cousin the American, as well! While they’re somewhat difficult to find today to keep as pets, we’ll also be giving plenty of helpful tips and hints for their care, nutrition, and health.

As early as 1895, the first “Vienna” rabbit breeds began to be shown in Austria. Originally, it was only the Blue Vienna that was recognized by that name; in fact, a breeder showing his new “white” version in 1900 was greatly criticized for how apparently different the two rabbits were!

This breeder, Mr. Mucke, finally reached his goal of developing an all-white rabbit with blue eyes in 1907. Known as the father of the White Vienna, he is responsible for the entire history of the breed that we know today.

Around the middle of the year 1910, the White Vienna made its way into Germany. There, breeders took an interest in continuing to selectively pair these rabbits until the size of their breed could be increased to match that of the Blue Vienna, after which they came to be known as just one breed.

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Very few other rabbit breeds have been able to achieve the combination of perfectly white coat and pale blue eyes afforded by the White Vienna; those that have only do so occasionally, whereas the White Vienna is consistently found only in this color combination.

Their extremely soft and dense coats are a wonderful addition to their medium-sized bodies and generally well-built frames.

Nutrition requirements are the same for White Viennas as for any other domestic rabbit: Abundant timothy hay and filtered water should form the basis of their diet, with daily servings of greens and kibble to round out their vitamin and mineral intake.

Combine this with an enclosure sufficiently large enough for them to stretch and move in, as well as daily exercise, and your White Vienna will surely live a long and happy life!

Owing to their soft, dense, plush fur, White Viennas do require a bit more grooming than your standard domestic rabbit. Aim for twice weekly brushings throughout most of the year, and be ready to make this a daily task during the spring when they start their shedding season. As always, use a pet brush that’s gentle and appropriate for rabbits.

Due in large part to their long history of selective breeding, White Vienna rabbits have an extremely accommodating and easygoing demeanor. They’re just as likely to spend a whole day finding new spots to relax as they are to cuddle up next to you and demand pets. Combine that with their handsome looks, and you have the makings of an excellent companion animal!

Long considered the “holy grail” of white rabbits, the White Vienna’s combination of pure white coat and pale blue eyes is the result of a long series of dedicated breeders. Their unique appearance and sparkling personalities have made them a favorite in many homes – though you may have a difficult time finding one to adopt!

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We hope you learned everything you wanted to and more about the White Vienna from this article! To read more about the White Vienna, Blue Vienna, and American rabbit breeds, we can recommend Lynn M. Stone’s Rabbit Breeds: The Pocket Guide to 49 Essential Breeds and Bob D. Whitman’s Domestic Rabbits and Their Histories as excellent resources.