The Netherland Dwarf rabbit is one of the smallest breeds of rabbit and is a very popular pet throughout the world. These bunnies have an excitable and energetic temperament and this combined with their compact size makes them a perfect companion to many.
While these rabbits can be shy and scared when you first bring them home and therefore may not be the pet for you if you have small children in the house, with the correct training and socialization they can grow up to live a happy life with their owners.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Netherland Dwarf rabbit and seeing whether they might be the bun for you, keep reading below.
HISTORY OF THE NETHERLAND DWARF RABBIT
Netherland Dwarf rabbits are a true dwarf breed, which means they carry the dwarf gene. They are often compared to the Holland Lop as they both have compact body types but, while the Holland Lop is the smallest lop, the Netherland Dwarf is the smallest rabbit.
Their small size is actually due to a dwarf gene, which was first discovered in rabbits in the mid-1900s. A breeder in Holland was the first to use this gene to create very small rabbits.
The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recognized the Netherland Dwarf rabbit in 1969 and several other dwarf breeds have sprung up since. The Netherland Dwarf remains one of the most popular rabbit breeds in the United States.
BREED ORIGIN
The Netherland Dwarf rabbit originated in Holland, hence their name, when five men worked for 30 years to create a standardized small rabbit that would be accepted and available in a variety of colors.
They began breeding all-white Hermelin rabbits with local wild rabbits as well as other domestic breeds until the Netherland Dwarf was created. The Netherland Dwarf was recognized by Holland in 1940. However, WWII interrupted further development.
In 1947, some English breeders were given some of the remaining Netherland Dwarfs in various colors and they were recognized as a breed by the British Rabbit Council in 1950. The Netherland Dwarf Club was also set up in England in 1949.
The Netherland Dwarf first arrived in North America in 1965 with the purpose to breed and improve Polish rabbits in the United States.
LIFESPAN
The Netherland Dwarf rabbit has an average life expectancy of between 10 to 12 years.
Source : Netherland Dwarf Rabbit - Top Facts & Breed Guide (animalcorner.org)