Being a true dwarf breed gives Netherland Dwarf rabbits a distinct look that makes them easily recognizable. Weighing only about 2.5 pounds, the Netherland Dwarf is also one of the smallest rabbit breeds. The breed originated in The Netherlands and carries the nickname the gem of the fancy.
Netherland Dwarf rabbits are one of a handful and a true dwarf breed, which means they carry the dwarf gene. They have a compact body, a large head, a short face, short ears, and large eyes. It’s a distinctive look, especially the short, upright ears on the large head. The overall impression is of a young rabbit, no matter the rabbit’s age. The fur is the normal length and slowly returns to the position after brushed opposite of the way it lays.
The breed standard for Netherland Dwarf calls for a short, compact body. The legs are to be short, the head round and large, and the ears short, upright, and rounded at the tip.
Colors.
The American Rabbit Breeders Association classifies Netherland Dwarf rabbit colors into five groups, self, shaded, agouti, tan, and any other variety. Between all these groups, Netherland Dwarfs come in more than 20 colors, including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, BEW, REW, sable point, Siamese sable, Siamese smoke pearl, tortoiseshell, chestnut, chinchilla, lynx, opal, squirrel, otter, sable marten, silver marten, smoke pearl marten, tans, fawn, Himalayan, orange, and steel.
History.
Netherland Dwarf breed has its roots in the Polish and Hermelin rabbit breeds. The Polish likely originated in England or Germany and the Hermelin hailed from Germany. Breeders in Holland then worked for years on crossing this small, white rabbit with small wild rabbits and even some larger rabbit breeds to introduce more colors. They got a standard in 1940, but World War II interrupted further development.
After the war, British rabbit breeder Joyce Taylor received 9 dwarfs and co-founded the Netherland Dwarf Club in England in 1949. The Netherland Dwarf first arrived in North America in 1965. Two U.S. rabbit breeders worked to get the breed recognized, and ARBA officially accepted the breed at its 1969 annual conventions.
Personality.
All rabbits are individuals, so it’s difficult to label the Netherland Dwarf personality. People have described them as timid, aggressive, loving, gentle, and almost everything else. If you’re considering adopting one, talk to the breeder or the rabbit rescue about the personality of the particular rabbit that interests you.
Use these tips when interacting with any rabbits,
Move slowly. Sudden movements can startle rabbits.
Learn how to properly pick up and support rabbits; they usually prefer not to be picked up.
Try sitting on the floor and letting your rabbit approach you.
Watch for cues from your rabbit about his or her likes or dislikes
A discussion about Netherland Dwarf personality at the Rabbits Online forum offers further insights, and another on the Binky Bunny forum also discusses Netherland Dwarf personality.
Health.
GI stasis, mites, and uterine cancer in unspayed females are among the common rabbit ailments that can occur in all rabbits, including Netherland Dwarf rabbits. Additionally, the common ailments of malocclusion and respiratory disease perhaps occur at a higher rate in Netherland Dwarfs because of the dwarf gene that gives them a smaller mouth and a shorter nose. Many factors affect the development of rabbit ailments, including environment, care, genetics, and reproductive status. But proper care minimizes some risks.
Heatstroke is an environmental concern that you can easily avoid by keeping your rabbit in cool areas. They tolerate cooler temperatures better than warmer ones. Humidity is also a factor because higher humidity can make temperatures feel even warmer. The ideal temperature range for rabbits is 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Thorough rabbit-proofing is another way to provide a safe environment.
A good rule to follow is to watch your Netherland Dwarf for any sudden changes. Changes in eating, drinking, sleeping, elimination, and, or activity level could signal a problem. Rabbits are prey animals and instinctively hide any weakness, such as illness, so always be alert to possible problems. Also watch for any strange discharge from eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or rear. And regularly check your pet for lumps, painful areas, or sores. This includes checking the bottom of the feet.
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