Cheat Sheet: Understanding the English Spot Pattern in Rabbits

The English Spot is one of the most unique breeds of rabbit recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). Not only do they sport an iconic spotting/broken pattern, but they are one of a very few breeds who are judged while running. Here I will attempt to explain the basics of the Spot's spots.

As stated, there are many other modifiers that contribute to the markings, and are well beyond the scope of this discussion. 

CLIFF'S NOTES FOR THE ENGLISH SPOT PATTERN:

If you don't want to worry about Punnett squares or inheritance and just want to know what you will get through breeding, here is a basic rundown:

For these examples, "Broken" signifies a rabit with the ideal markings; "Solid" signifies a solid/non-spotted rabbit; "Charlie" signifies a homozygous/minimally-marked rabbit.

Broken + Broken = 50% Broken, 25% Solid, 25% Charlie.

Broken + Solid = 50% Broken, 50% Solid.

Broken + Charlie = 50% Broken, 50% Charlie.

Charlie + Solid = 100% Broken. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Charlie + Charlie = 100% Charlie. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Solid + Solid = 100% Solid. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Lastly, something to keep in mind is that the percentages listed above are for EACH KIT, not the litter as a whole unless the result is 100% foolproof. This means that each kit in a litter of, say, Broken to Solid mating, has a 50% chance of being Broken. As such actual litter percentages may vary!

If you have any further questions, please feel free to comment below!