Dutch Rabbits

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About Dutch Rabbits

Dutch rabbits are one of the oldest breeds. While rabbits imported from Holland were the founding stock, the breed was created in England in the mid-1800s. Since then it has been the most popular breed in the world, only recently losing much of its popularity to the new dwarf breeds.

Dutches are also one of the most easily recognized breeds, thanks to their markings. The most common colors are the recognized ones, which are:
- Black, which is glossy and dense
- Blue, a grayish color similar to that of blue cats and dogs
- Chocolate, a deep, soft brown
- Gray, called agouti in all other breeds. This is called Brown Grey in the UK.
- Steel, black hairs with white on the tips. Steel Grey in the UK.
- Tortoise, an orangey color with a deep blue shading in some areas. Also called Tortoiseshell.

Also found are:
- Gold, a rich yellowy color. This isn't recognized in the US but is shown in the UK as Yellow.
- Harlequin, a mix of orange and black patches. This is called Tri-Colour in the UK.
- Chinchilla, a grayish color with dark tips.
- Pale Grey, which is not found in the US.

The most distinguishing features are the markings. Dutches have a saddle of color, extending from a straight line just behind the shoulders all the way to under the rump. From the straight line to the back of the head is pure white. Front legs are white, while rear legs are 2/3 white and the bottom 1/3 white. The head is colored, with large cheeks. The blaze is wedge shaped, going straight between the eyes and over the bottom of the lips. A good show-quality Dutch has perfectly straight, symmetrical markings.

Their eyes are somewhat large, always bright. The ears are on the shorter side, straight up, with a rounded tip. They are a compact, cob type, rounded body. They weigh about 5 pounds, which is a medium weight compared to other rabbit breeds.

They are very intelligent and get bored easily. They are also sociable and crave attention, along with being quite energetic.