The Swedish Hare is a breed of domestic rabbit that resembles a hare and was developed, starting in 2008 in Sweden, for its competitive jumping ability. At the same time but separately, the Elfin breed was being developed in the United States—also in response to the popularity of rabbit show jumping. The Elfin officially became the Swedish Hare in October 2011. Specimens from all rabbit breeds may do well in rabbit sports, but the Swedish Hare breed specifically combines the athleticism and temperament to excel in jumping competitions, while avoiding extremes of body type, fur length, or ear length. Since coat colors and markings do not affect jumping ability, all are acceptable in the Swedish Hare; in fact, unusual coats are encouraged because (like racing silks) they help distinguish the competitors. In Sweden, the landrace breed called the Gotland, although rare, was admired for its good temperament and strong body. Many Gotland rabbits possess an athletic arched body type, and, as a bonus, the breed comes in all colors. Good Gotland jumpers were bred to the European version of the Polish rabbit, the Belgian Hare and other breeds to develop the Swedish Hare. In the United States, outgoing temperament and athletic body type were paramount in developing the Elfin rabbit. Arched and muscular but large Rhinelanders were bred to the American version of the smaller Polish breed to bring the size. Other foundation stock included the Belgian Hare, the Tan, the Harlequin, the Mini Satin, and the Britannia Petite. Now that the Elfin have been included in the Swedish Hare population, an international exchange of breeding stock is possible. Appearance Though it is not the standard of the Swedish Hare, the working standard for the Elfin breed (which appears below) called for a small rabbit weighing no more than , with larger specimens of proper type faulted but not disqualified. General appearance is to be graceful, fully arched and well balanced. The Swedish standard is similar and is being translated into English. Schedule Of Points General Type........................................ 75 Fur........................................................ 10 Color....................................................... 5 Condition............................................... 10 Total..................................................... 100 Showroom Classes & Weights Senior Bucks & Does—6 months of age and over. Maximum weight 5 pounds. Junior Bucks & Does—Under 6 months of age. Note: The Elfin should be judged in a natural position, not posed. General Type--Points 75: General appearance is to be graceful, fully arched and well balanced. Should be slim,