Rabbit breed

Dutch Rabbit

Also known as: Hollander

A classic two-tone rabbit — friendly, hardy and easy to recognise.

Written by E. S.· Updated October 2026

  • Friendly
  • Curious
  • Active
  • Gentle
  • Sociable

The Dutch rabbit is one of the oldest domestic breeds, known for its distinctive markings: a white blaze and saddle with coloured cheeks and rear. Dutch rabbits are friendly, active and generally easy to handle, making them a good choice for families.

At a glance

Origin
Netherlands / England
Size
Small
Weight
4–6 lb (1.8–2.5 kg)
Lifespan
8–12 years
Coat
Short, glossy, rollback fur
Colours
Black, Blue, Chocolate, Grey, Steel, Tortoiseshell (all with white markings)
Average cost
$60–$110 / month

Breed ratings

Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.

Energy level
Exercise needs
Intelligence
Trainability
Affection

Wants close contact with people

Independence
Good with children

Patient and tolerant with kids

Good with other pets

Usually settles with other animals

Apartment friendly

Comfortable in a smaller home

Beginner friendly

Forgiving for a first-time owner

Shedding
Grooming needs
Noise level

Temperament

Dutch rabbits are friendly and easy-going, making them good family rabbits.

Care & upkeep

Exercise

3–4 hours of free-roaming daily.

Grooming

Brush weekly, more during moult. Never bathe.

Training

Litter train readily and can learn simple cues.

Feeding & diet

Typical diet
Hay-based herbivore diet
Daily amount
Unlimited hay, 1 cup greens, 1–2 tbsp pellets
Meals per day
Hay always available; greens and pellets daily

Hay must make up most of the diet.

Foods to avoid

  • Iceberg lettuce
  • Muesli-style mixes
  • Large amounts of fruit
  • Bread and cereal
  • Onion family vegetables

Who this breed suits

A good match for

  • Families with older children
  • House-rabbit keepers
  • Apartments

Probably not for

  • Hutch-only housing
  • Very young children

Common health problems

This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.

  • GI stasisNo eating or droppings for 12 hours is an emergency.
  • Dental diseaseHay keeps teeth worn.
  • E. cuniculiA parasite causing head tilt; testable and treatable.
  • FlystrikeCheck the rear daily in summer.

Vaccinate and neuter to protect long-term health.

Interesting facts

  • One of the oldest domestic rabbit breeds.
  • Was among the most popular breeds before dwarf breeds took over.
  • The markings are notoriously hard to breed perfectly.

Diet & Feeding

Unlimited timothy hay should make up 80–85% of the diet, plus around a cup of leafy greens daily and one to two tablespoons of pellets.

Exercise & Enrichment

Dutch rabbits need 3–4 hours of free-roaming time daily and a spacious enclosure. Provide tunnels, dig boxes and chew toys.

Grooming

Brush weekly, more during moult. Never bathe. Trim nails every 6–8 weeks and check the rear daily in warm weather.

Health & Vet Care

Watch for GI stasis, dental disease, E. cuniculi and flystrike. Spay or neuter, and vaccinate against myxomatosis and RHD.

Living with a Dutch Rabbit

Dutch rabbits are sociable and curious. Keep them in bonded pairs and interact at floor level — most rabbits dislike being picked up.