The Dutch rabbit is one of the most popular breeds in the world. The main features of this species are its small size, various colors and incredibly beautiful appearance.
History of origin
To date, much remains unknown in the history of the described breed. However, the date is reliable - in 1800, this species originates. In England, active work began on obtaining Dutch rabbits.
Numerous mutations took place in the genes of the rabbit, and the animals acquired unusual external qualities - red eyes, white wool, soft, strong body. Then the mutating individuals were repeatedly crossed. An exhibition was held in Amsterdam in 1947, where scientists presented the results of their work - Dutch rabbits.
Description of the breed
At first, this species was considered to be a meat-skin species, on average, the live weight of one rabbit could reach 5.5 kg. After breeding broiler breeds, Dutch rabbits move into the decorative category, as they have acquired more compact sizes.
Its peaceful disposition and unusual appearance made it very popular among breeders.
External data
Representatives of the described breed have the following characteristics of appearance:
- strong body of compact size;
- large and strong hind legs, when compared with the front;
- on average, weight ranges from 1.4-1.8 kg, but some animals can reach 3 kg;
- the neck has no pronounced outlines;
- short ears, covered with hair;
- chubby cheeks;
- the head is not large, the muzzle is slightly flattened;
- soft and thick coat, not too long;
- the color of the fur is the main feature of the breed - the back of the body is dark, the front is white;
- there are individuals whose fur has three shades;
- eyes can be brown or blue-gray;
- the average life span is 8-11 years.
Color
The animals can have a variety of interesting colors. The Dutch are among the rare species, with more than 25 different fur color options to date. There are traditional colors, as well as ash blue, deep red, black and white, silver gray, etc.
See in the video presented a review of the Dutch rabbit:
Due to its high quality and non-standard color options, the Dutch fur is in great demand in the production of natural fur products.
Weight
In an adult, live weight can fluctuate between 4-6 kg. The physique is muscular and strong enough. The animals grow quickly and gain weight rapidly, therefore, by 5 months of age, they are ready for slaughter if they are raised for meat products.
Character
The Dutch are friendly and affectionate animals, they have a docile disposition. Sociable, brave and inquisitive, which makes them different from other decorative species. Ideal for the role of a pet. Another characteristic of the Dutch character is their quick learning, so they can be easily trained to use the litter box, which makes cleaning much easier.
Maintenance and care
The Dutch are not whimsical, but in order for the animal to feel comfortable, certain conditions must be created. First of all, you need to take care of the acquisition and arrangement of the cage in which the rabbit will live.
Selection and arrangement of the cage
Make sure that the animal's house meets the following characteristics:
- the cage is quite spacious - about 70-50 cm;
- do not leave the cage near heaters and in the sun, as rabbits do not tolerate heat well;
- do not leave the cage in a draft;
- cover the bottom of the cage with straw, hay or sawdust;
- fix the drinking bowl on the side grate so that the rabbit has constant access to water (read here on how to make the drinking bowl yourself);
- choose heavy feeders that the animal cannot turn over;
- in the cage, equip a resting place and toilet.
Care rules
Regular cleaning of the cage keeps your pet in perfect condition. Remove food debris and clean the tray every day, change the litter, and add fresh water regularly.
Do a thorough cleaning every 7-10 days:
- Move the rabbit to a safe place and remove all litter and food debris.
- Use a stiff bristled brush to thoroughly clean the cage. Brush all hard-to-reach areas with a toothbrush.
- Wash the cage with warm water using a vinegar solution (water and vinegar are taken in equal amounts) or plain soap. Finally, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Once the cage is dry, lay out new litter, add water, and add food.
- Always leave a small uncleaned corner or piece of old bedding. The fact is that animals have a habit of marking their home, if they do not feel their smell, they will behave restlessly.
When cleaning, do not use chemicals. If left in the cage, they can cause serious health problems in the rabbit.
Preventive vaccinations
Regular preventive vaccinations keep your rabbit in perfect health. Try to adhere to the following frequency:
- up to 45 days, vaccination against myxomatosis is done;
- at 4.5 months, a re-vaccination is carried out and is done every six months in the future;
- at 2 months of age, vaccinated against rabies.
To avoid a decrease in immunity, before each vaccination, carry out prophylaxis against helminths.
Feeding features
The Dutch diet should include:
- compound feed containing all valuable minerals with vitamins;
- oats with corn;
- dried grass - about 250 g per day per individual;
- dandelion with nettles;
- fruits with vegetables;
- brewer's yeast, since they contain a large amount of amino acids with vitamins;
- salt and chalk (feed).
We recommend reading the article - how, when and what to feed the rabbits.
Breeding
When planning a Dutch breeding, you need to purchase a male with a female. A rabbit can bring about 7-9 cubs at a time. During the year, pregnancy occurs 6-8 times. Start mating no earlier than the animals are 7 months old. Animals over 3 years old are not suitable for breeding.
During the beginning of the hunt, the behavior of the female changes - it becomes too nervous, begins to pluck wool. During this period, she is required to be planted in the same cage with the male. The duration of pregnancy is about 30 days. Before the nesting, the female builds a “nest” from her own plucked wool; it is also possible to equip a mother house for her in advance.
Breed profitability
Rabbits become not only good pets, but also own beautiful fur. Rabbit skins are widely used for the production of high-value fur products. The Dutch are the source of fine, tender and dietary meat.
Females can bring up to 10 rabbits at a time. Young growth grows quickly and rapidly gaining weight. Therefore, representatives of the described breed are used both for obtaining meat products and skins. Fur is used as a secondary product and is in high demand.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantages of the described breed of rabbits are:
- miniature size, so they can be kept in small cages;
- not picky about food;
- ease of care and cultivation;
- learns quickly and can use the tray;
- non-aggressive and docile disposition;
- beautiful appearance.
However, there are some disadvantages of the breed:
- a cage and other care and maintenance supplies are expensive;
- the animal's house needs to be cleaned every day and constantly monitor the freshness of the water;
- the animals have a tendency to gnaw everything around, so it cannot be let out for a walk around the apartment unattended;
- a specific aroma may appear;
- molt regularly takes place and during this period more attention is required to be paid to the pet.
At night, the animals can be very active, which interferes with a quiet rest.
Reviews
Marina, 35 years old, housewife, Moscow. For a long time I chose a rabbit to keep in the apartment, I decided to take a Dutchman. My pet is already 5 years old, but he still remains mobile, active and playful. He gladly greets me when I return home, loves sweets, but categorically refuses carrots. It does not require special care, but it gives a lot of positive emotions.
Evgeniy, 28 years old, economist, Voronezh. For me, a rabbit of this breed has become the best animal. Feels great in a cage, loves to play with children, has an interesting and unusual color, for which he was chosen. It is easy to care for it, it is enough to regularly clean the cage and feed it properly.
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The Dutch rabbit is one of the most sought-after representatives of this species. Ideal for keeping in an apartment. Not whimsical in care and nutrition, so its cultivation does not cause any particular difficulties, even for those who have not come across these animals before.