The Lionhead mane comes from a gene mutation that produces wool around the head (and sometimes the body). How many mane genes a rabbit inherits determines whether it is a single mane, double mane, or no mane Lionhead.
What is a single mane Lionhead?
A single mane rabbit receives one mane gene. It usually grows a noticeable mane ring, but the wool may be lighter than on double mane siblings and can diminish as the rabbit ages.
What is a double mane Lionhead?
Double mane kits inherit two mane genes. They often show a V‑shaped wool skirt on the belly shortly after birth and develop a fuller mane and flank wool as adults.
Identifying mane type in newborn kits
The most reliable check is within the first days of life: double mane babies frequently show dense wool along the belly line, while single mane babies look more like a standard dwarf rabbit until the mane grows in.
Grooming differences
Double mane Lionheads typically require more brushing and are more prone to mats. Follow the schedule in our grooming guide.
Showing and breeding considerations
ARBA and BRC standards describe acceptable mane presentation for show animals. Breeders pair single and double mane rabbits carefully because combining two double mane parents can produce kits with excessive wool (sometimes called “double mane problem” offspring with compromised viability).
No mane Lionheads
Rabbits with zero mane genes are still Lionheads by pedigree but lack the wool mane. They need less coat care but are not competitive in mane‑focused show classes.
For deeper breed history, visit Lionhead history or the main mane types page.