The Dutch rabbit, also known as Hollander or Brabander, is easily identifiable by its characteristic color pattern. It was once the most popular of all rabbit breeds, but its popularity declined after dwarf rabbits were developed. The breed originated from Holland and was first bred around 1850, making it the oldest domesticated rabbit breed. With good care, Dutch rabbits often live between 5 and 10 years, occasionally longer. They are fairly small and compact, with hind legs longer than the forelegs and short, dense fur. The head is round and full with a short neck, keeping the head close to the shoulders.
The common coat marking is a white band around the neck, often called the “formal attire.” Black Dutch rabbits have dark brown eyes, while Blue Dutch rabbits have blue-grey eyes. Their ears are stocky, well-furred, erect, and proportional to the size of the head. Weaning weight ranges from 1–2 kg, and litter size is 6–8 kits per doe. Mature rabbits weigh 5–6 kg and reach sexual maturity at 5–6 months. Dutch rabbits are small but compact, often displaying the characteristic breed markings.