Rounded and balanced — that’s the body shape of an ideal Dutch rabbit. These small rabbits, typically 3.5 to 5.5 pounds, sport distinctive markings that make them unforgettable. Dutch is the only breed to guess when you see the white blaze on the nose, white collar around the neck, and white saddle on the back. Despite the name, this popular breed was actually first developed in England. Dutch rabbits are recognized in seven color varieties and were one of the first breeds recognized by the precursor to ARBA.
The Dutch rabbit is probably one of the easiest breeds to identify because of the distinctive white markings. The white blaze on the nose, and the white collar and the “saddle” on the back are a dead giveaway. Dutch are a small breed, but not a dwarf. The fur is normal length, with a soft under layer covered by longer guard hairs. The fur is flyback, meaning that if brushed opposite to the direction of growth, the fur quickly snaps back to normal position. Ears are upright. The breed standard for Dutch rabbit calls for a compact body. It should be rounded and balanced. Ears are upright and the markings must be distinct.
A very peculiar feature of Dutch rabbits is the presence of peculiar markings on their face, feet, and shoulder. The rabbit colors vary from species. There are many color varieties of rabbits in the world. According to the standard American Rabbit Breeders Association, these rabbits are medium-sized. These rabbits are four class breeds. This breed has a well-rounded body compact in appearance with a white neck marking. They are short and stock with a round head, their ears are well furred, and they have a short flyback fur that is glossy in appearance.
Dutch Rabbit Breed History/Origin
The Dutch rabbit is one of the oldest domestic rabbit breeds. It is a descendant of the Petite Brabançon from the Brabant region in Flanders which was bred in large numbers for the meat industry in the late 19th century. The Dutch rabbit is said to have originated sometime around 1850 in Holland, where it is called the Hollander Rabbit. In 1864, it found its way to England where it grew in popularity and has since then been exported to many places around the world.
How Big Do Dutch Rabbits Get?
There are many different pet rabbit breeds to consider owning – as you will have likely have realized by now! But have you ever considered that breeds can grow to different sizes or have different spacial needs and requirements? I took a look at the standard and data for the Dutch rabbit, otherwise known as the Hollander or Brabander, to find out precisely what to expect for this breed.
So, how big do Dutch rabbits get? Dutch rabbits are considered a small to medium breed, typically weighing between 3.5 to 5.5 pounds. They tend to have a body length of 11 to 14 inches and are around 7.5 to 9 inches tall at the shoulders. They generally reach their full size at between 6 and 7 months of age.
How Big Do Dutch Rabbits Grow?
Dutch rabbits typically weigh between 3.5 to 5.5 pounds; which makes them one of the smallest breeds to own as a pet. It is only really the Mini Rex, Holland Lop and Netherland Dwarf that come up any smaller.
There are generally three factors that all will impact their final size: genetics, nutrition and afforded space. Nutrition is absolutely something in the control of an owner. Like any breed of rabbit, it is essential that they obtain a nutritionally balanced diet consisting of good-quality hay, pellets, and fresh greens to support their growth.
How Long Do Dutch Rabbits Get?
Dutch rabbits are between 11 to 14 inches in body length. Male and female rabbits are virtually similar in size, although young rabbits are naturally shorter until they grow into their size.
Rabbits are famous for hopping around, and they are built for energetic bursts of speed. But nothing could be more true than in this breed. They are quite simply, built for it! The Dutch breed has a long body, short front legs, and large powerful back legs which they use to support impressive acrobatic jumps.
What Type Of Animal Is A Dutch Rabbit?
A Dutch rabbit is a rabbit native to Europe and is mainly bred in England. This rabbit breed has characteristic markings that depict their Dutch origin as they have a similar temperament. A Dutch rabbit, also known as a Hollander or Brabander, is one of the most popular breeds of Rabbits in the world and is available in multiple color varieties.
What Class Of Animal Does A Dutch Rabbit Belong To?
A Dutch rabbit belongs to the class of Mammalia of phylum Chordata of kingdom Animalia. It further belongs to the genus Oryctolagus, the genus of rabbits native to the Iberian peninsula. This genus of rabbits then belongs to the Leporidae, the family of hares and rabbits. This rabbit breed further belongs to the order Lagomorpha which only contains two families, Leporidae and Ochotonidae.
Are Dutch Rabbits Good Pets?
The Dutch rabbit is a suitable pet for both children and adults. They will do best with children over 10 years of age; younger children should be under adult supervision when handling and caring for the rabbit. The Dutch is generally good-natured and quite sociable with a great personality and can be very energetic.
Do Dutch Rabbits Bite?
Sometimes, your Dutch rabbit may attempt to bite you, though it will not intend to hurt you. Its bite is more along the lines of a pinch, however, a provoked rabbit may deliver a serious bite if it is not left alone.
Are Dutch Rabbits Smart?
Personality Traits of the Dutch Rabbit These bunnies are smart and easily trained to use a litter pan or do tricks and are not quite as skittish or jumpy as some of the dwarf breeds or smaller rabbit varieties.
How Many Dutch Rabbits Are There In The World?
This Breed Of Dutch Rabbits Is Very Popular And Is Found In Many Households. Proper Count Of Their Number In Various Households Is Not Really Known, But According To 2015 Data, In Total, 3% Of Households Owned Rabbits, And Their Number Was 1,200,000 In Total.
Where Does A Dutch Rabbit Live?
A Dutch rabbit is majorly a domesticated breed in Europe and is kept in households with its owner. In the wild, rabbits are mostly found in forests and meadows.