And although the Netherland Dwarf sometimes has a bit of a reputation for being a little shy and even grumpy, that simply isn’t the case. Today, the breed is well known by rabbit enthusiasts all around the world as a curious, cuddly, and oh-so-cute companion. ![]() The breed almost died out during World War II, but dedicated enthusiasts kept the Netherland Dwarf going, and its popularity soon spread to the UK and the USA. Developed in Holland at the start of the 20th century, this gorgeous furball was created by crossing Polish and Hermelin rabbits. If you want to know more about the origins of the Netherland Dwarf, the hint is in the breed’s name. Keep reading to find out how to care for a Netherland Dwarf. These adorable little bunnies are inquisitive, spirited and friendly, and they’ve got plenty to offer to a loving owner.īut before you welcome a Netherland Dwarf rabbit into your family, you need to be fully aware of exactly what it takes to look after one of these beautiful bunnies. ![]() The Netherland Dwarf may be one of the smallest rabbit breeds in the world, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for with personality. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Netherland Dwarfs are prone to dental disease, a potentially fatal condition that is often inherited.Ĭhoose a rabbit with a good temperament and a low risk of hereditary teeth problems, from a reputable breeder or rescue centre.This post may contain affiliate links. Males tend to be more aggressive than females. As the breed became established, many breeders placed a greater emphasis on temperament and the Netherland Dwarf has become somewhat calmer and better-natured. Breeding stock were selected on the basis of Dwarf characteristics and temperament remained poor during development of the breed. Derived from the extremely lively Polish(UK) and wild rabbits, early Netherland Dwarfs were fairly 'wild' as temperament is largely inherited. The Netherland Dwarf has a reputation for being nervous and aggressive. ![]() They tend to be easily frightened and may become aggressive. Netherland Dwarfs are not suitable with children. Despite their small size, they need plenty of space as they love to run around and can jump surprisingly high. They are very active and playful, love climbing and can be quite mischievous. Gentleness and understanding are needed to win their trust and bring out the best in their personality. White (red or blue-eyed), Black, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Siamese Sable, Siamese Smoke Pearl, Sable Point, Tortoiseshell, Agouti, Chestnut, Opal, Lynx, Chinchilla, Squirrel, Tan, Fox, Sable Marten, Smoke Pearl Marten, Silver Marten, Otter, Orange, Fawn, Steel, Himalayan, Broken Pattern The Netherland Dwarf has short, soft hair. The head is short, broad and rounded with a very curved profile and small upright ears about 5cm (2in) long. The body is short and broad with rounded quarters and short legs. The Netherland Dwarf has a compact, rounded appearance. The Netherland Dwarf is among the very smallest breeds with a typical weight range of 700g-1.2kg (1½-2½lbs) Most rabbits sold in pet shops are Netherland Dwarfs or Netherland Dwarf cross-breeds. ![]() The Netherland Dwarf was introduced to Britain during the 1940s and to the United States in the late 1960s and has become one of the most popular breeds in the world. Almost every known colour has since been achieved through cross-breeding. Initially Netherland Dwarfs were almost always natural wild (agouti) grey in colour but further development of the breed produced black, steel grey and sable colours. A breed standard was established in 1940, with a maximum weight of 1.5kg and allowing all known colours. The Netherland Dwarf was developed in the Netherlands in the 1930s from white Polish(UK) and a selected strain of wild rabbits.
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