Discover why and how to join ARBA for rabbitry success!

When we first started raising rabbits, we quickly realized there was so much more to learn than we had anticipated—about breeding, showing, and maintaining a reputable rabbitry. As beginners, we often found ourselves searching for reliable information and wondering which steps would best help us get involved and grow in the rabbit community.

During our early research, we came across the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), a resource that quickly became invaluable to us.

In this post, we’ll share why we decided to become ARBA members, how the process works, and why it’s an excellent step for anyone serious about raising rabbits. Whether you’re on the fence about joining or just curious about the benefits, keep reading—you might be surprised by how much ARBA can offer for your rabbitry!

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What is ARBA?

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) is both an organization and community that brings together rabbit and cavy enthusiasts from all over the world. Founded over 100 years ago, ARBA has grown into an organization that promotes the breeding, showing, and care of rabbits and cavies for both hobby and professional purposes. It supports breeders by setting high standards for care, breeding and provides resources for everyone from beginners to seasoned professionals.

Today, ARBA has over 20,000 members and recognizes 51 breeds of rabbits and 13 breeds of cavies. Members of ARBA can participate in events like the annual national convention, where rabbits and cavies are judged and celebrated for their successes. The community also raises funds for research and maintains the largest collection of rabbit and cavy publications in the world. By joining ARBA, members gain access to a wealth of knowledge, community, and opportunities to grow in their rabbitry journey.

Benefits of Becoming an ARBA Member

Becoming a member of the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) comes with a wide range of benefits that support rabbit and cavy enthusiasts at every level. Whether you’re a beginner looking for reliable resources, an experienced breeder aiming to participate in shows, or someone passionate about connecting with a larger community, ARBA offers something for everyone.

Access to Resources

  • Domestic Rabbits Magazine (digital or print depending on membership selected).
  • Official Guide Book: Raising Better Rabbits & Cavies.
  • Information on registering rabbits and/or cavies.
  • Information on obtaining Grand Champion Certification.

Participation in Events

  • Compete in ARBA sanctioned rabbit and cavy shows across the U.S. and beyond.
  • Attend the annual ARBA national convention, one of the largest rabbit and cavy events in the world.

Community and Networking

  • Connect with other rabbit and cavy enthusiasts locally and globally.
  • Join local ARBA-affiliated clubs for mentorship and support.

Rabbitry and Breed Recognition

  • Register your rabbitry and establish an official rabbitry.
  • Breed and register ARBA-recognized rabbits and cavies to build pedigrees.

Support for Research and Advocacy

  • Contribute to the ARBA Research and Development Fund, supporting advancements in rabbit and cavy health and welfare.
  • Be part of an organization that advocates for responsible breeding and care practices.

Discounts and Other Perks

  • Access potential discounts on rabbit-related products or services through ARBA affiliations.
  • Gain credibility and trust when selling rabbits or starting a breeding program.

Preservation of History and Knowledge

  • Contribute to and access the ARBA Hall of Fame Library, the largest collection of rabbit and cavy publications in the world.

Registering your rabbitry with the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) is a significant step for anyone serious about breeding rabbits, whether as a hobby or a business. It offers several key benefits that help establish credibility, streamline your breeding program, and enhance your reputation in the rabbitry community. Here’s why you should consider registering:

Legitimacy and Recognition

  • Registering your rabbitry gives it an official name and prefix, which adds professionalism to your operation.
  • It sets you apart as a breeder who values quality, consistency, and adherence to ARBA standards.

Building Trust

  • Buyers, whether looking for show rabbits or livestock, are more likely to trust breeders with a registered rabbitry.
  • Registration demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices and high standards in breeding.

Streamlined Record-Keeping

  • A registered rabbitry allows you to maintain detailed pedigrees and track bloodlines more efficiently.
  • Your official prefix will appear on pedigrees, making it easy to identify and showcase the rabbits you’ve bred.

Access to Shows and Events

  • Rabbitry registration can make participation in ARBA-sanctioned shows and competitions even more rewarding, as your rabbits can carry your registered prefix.

  • It gives your operation recognition within the competitive breeding community.

How to Become an ARBA Member

Becoming a member of the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) is easy and affordable, making it accessible for anyone passionate about rabbits or cavies. Whether you’re a hobbyist, breeder, or just curious about the rabbitry world, ARBA offers various membership options to fit your needs. Once you join, you’ll gain access to valuable resources, exclusive events, and a community of like-minded enthusiasts. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of membership pricing and options to help you get started!

Now here’s how you join:

1. Visit ARBA’s Website

  • Click the orange Join/Renew button.

2. Select the membership you would like to obtain

  • Choose an International Membership or USA Membership

3. Select whether you’d like mailed membership cards/magazine or digital only.

  • Standard Membership:
    • Digital ONLY Membership Cards
    • Digital ONLY Domestic Rabbits Magazine
  • Plus Membership:
    • Digital AND Mailed Membership Cards
    • Digital AND Mailed Domestic Rabbits Magazine

4. Select whether you’d like a family or single membership.

  • Family
    • Two adult family
    • Single adult family
    • Two adult membership
  • Single
    • One youth membership
    • One adult membership

5. Select your final type of membership.

6. Fill in your information and click add to cart, then checkout!

7. Within a few days at most, you will receive an email confirming your membership!

It’s so easy to join the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and it’s a great way to connect with fellow rabbit and cavy enthusiasts, access valuable resources, and elevate your journey to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned breeder, ARBA membership offers the support and knowledge you need to thrive and grow in the rabbit/cavy community.