Netherland Dwarf Rabbit

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Two pounds and a decade

Netherland dwarfs weigh about 1.1 to 2.5 pounds and often live 10 to 12 years. They are energetic and not especially interested in being held. Hay is most of the diet. A seed-and-carrot habit will grow the wrong teeth and stop the gut. They need space to run that looks absurd next to their size, because a small animal still has legs.

Neuter and spay. Uterine cancer is common in female rabbits that are left intact, and intact males spray and fight. A pair can work after surgery and a proper introduction. A pair of strangers dumped together is a fight.

A short face is a dental plan

Incisors that curl and molars that spur are the breed tax. Some need repeated dentals for life. Budget that before you fall for the face. GI stasis is the other emergency, same as in any rabbit. ASPCA covers rabbit feeding in plain language. A dwarf that will not eat hay by evening is the not-eating page.

Netherland dwarf questions

Are Netherland dwarfs good for kids?

Usually no. They are fragile, quick, and often nippy. An adult who wants a small rabbit can do well. A child who wants to carry a bunny around will break one or get bitten.

Why are their faces so short?

The dwarf face crowds the teeth. Malocclusion is common. A rabbit that drops pellets or has a wet chin needs the molars and the incisors examined.

How long do they live?

Often 10 to 12 years. That is longer than many families expect from a rabbit that fits in two hands.