Dutch rabbits are one of the most easily recognisable rabbit breeds because of their markings and these bunnies are one of the top ten most popular breeds across the globe. It is believed that these rabbits originated in England, but are the direct descendants of the Petit Brabançon rabbit from Belgium. Today, the Dutch rabbit is popular as a show animal among breeders, but just as easily makes a great pet.
Physical Traits of the Dutch Rabbit
The Dutch rabbit is considered a small to medium rabbit breed, usually weighing around 2 to 2.5 kilogrammes. These rabbits always have the trademark markings of a white body with patches of another colour on both sides of their face, their ears, and around their mid-to-lower body and back.
The most common colour combinations of the Dutch rabbit are black and white, chocolate and white, yellow and white, and brown and white, but there are several different colour varieties. This breed has a proportionate head and body shape with long ears that usually stand upright and what is sometimes referred to as a “flyback” coat, which means it gently grows in one direction. It is also fur that is easy to maintain because it is fairly short.
Personality Traits of the Dutch Rabbit
Dutch rabbits are generally calm, peaceful, and easygoing creatures with an even disposition. They are preferred as a house pet and for homes with children because of their gentle nature. 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.
Dutch Rabbit Grooming Requirements
- Brush your Dutch bunny at least weekly, but even more, if you get the chance and your pet enjoys it. This helps capture loose hairs lost through shedding.
- Trim your rabbit’s nails as needed, which will typically mean about every six to eight weeks.
- You may have to occasionally clean the pristine white fur of the Dutch, but this should only be done with a dampened cloth, not with a full-on bath.
Special Dutch Rabbit Considerations
- Dutch bunnies are a generally healthy and hardy rabbit breed with a life span of about 5 to 8 years.
- Your Dutch bunny can consume a general rabbit diet, consisting of hay, pellets, and veggies.
- Your Dutch bunny can be overall more healthy if you have it spayed or neutered, which is a wise idea if you have companion bunnies because the breed has a short gestation cycle and will reproduce several times in one year.
- Dutch bunnies make great pets for children because of their docile temperament. Just be sure your children know the proper handling rules.
- You can keep your Dutch rabbit as an indoor or outdoor pet, as this breed can withstand cooler and warmer temperatures as long as it has proper shelter and shade.
Even though Dutch rabbits are popular among rabbit show participants, this rabbit breed still makes an excellent pet choice if you want a bunny for your family. Make sure you take a look at the supplies, hutches, and starter kits available on Pets.ie to get ready for your bunny.