Introduction
The Holland lop rabbit is known as the miniature lop or mini lop. This breed is one of the most popular rabbit breeds all over the world. Thanks to his energetic and friendly disposition, countless rabbit enthusiasts want him as a family pet.
History
Where do Holland lop rabbits come from?
The origin of the Holland lop rabbit can be traced back to the Netherlands in the 1950s. The breed was created by Adrian Cock, who was a Dutch rabbit judge and breeder. Through cross-breeding the French lop with the Netherland dwarf, he was able to create the Holland lop. Adrian also used the English lop to help strengthen the lop gene.
It did not take long for this new breed of rabbit to become popular in the Netherlands. In 1970, a breed society was established in the country. It aims to create miniature lops that only weigh approximately 1.5 kg.
In 1976, the Holland lop was initially imported to the US. Three years later, it was recognised by the American Rabbit Breeders Association.
Today, the mini lop is one of the most popular rabbit breeds around the world. Do you want one as a pet rabbit? Browse through our Holland Lop for Sale and Rehoming page to find the right match for you.
Appearance
Holland lop rabbit characteristics
The Holland lop is a dwarf rabbit, breed thus he is quite small. His standard size is 1.4–1.8 kg in weight and 12.7–15.2 cm in length. The mini lop has a short and compact body.
His head is broad and round with a puff of fur on the back, which is known as the ‘crown.’ He sports well-furred and thick floppy ears, which are wider at the bottom and have rounded tips.
The Holland lop bunny’s short fur has a strand length of around 1 inch. It is smooth, dense, and glossy. He has a wide variety of coat colours including black, blue, chocolate, lilac, blue-eyed white, red, orange, lynx, agouti, opal, squirrel, and chinchilla.
How big do Holland lops get?
The Holland lop is a small breed of rabbit. It is only 12.7–15.2 cm long and weighs no more than 1.4–1.8 kg once he has fully matured. It is normal for the female to be larger than the male.
When do Holland Lop rabbits stop growing?
Miniature lop matures quickly. Generally, he reaches his full size and stops growing once he turns six to seven months old.
One way to know if he has fully grown is by comparing his size to the standard size of an adult Holland lop bunny. A mature mini lop is 12.7–15.2 cm long and weighs around 1.4–1.8 kg.
When do Holland lop ears drop?
Holland lop’s ears will usually drop when he reaches four to six months old. However, other mini lop rabbits still have a little bit of ear control. This will gradually abate once his head completely develops. It usually happens when he turns two to three years of age.
Grooming
How to care for Holland Lops rabbits?
The Holland lop is a small rabbit that requires minimal grooming. He needs weekly brushing using a slicker brush or a wide-toothed comb. Do not skip this grooming process since it does not only keep his coat healthy and mat-free but also prevents fur block. This health issue occurs when rabbits ingest too much fur when grooming themselves.
The miniature lop is highly meticulous in self-grooming. Therefore, he does not need to be washed. Baths cause him so much stress too, so instead of soaking him in water, use a moist clean cloth to wipe off the dirt from his fur.
Regular nail trimming is a must as well. Do this at least once a month. You may also ask the vet to do this for you during check-ups.
Temperament
Are Holland lop rabbits friendly?
Easy-going and sweet-natured, the Holland lop is one of the friendliest rabbit breeds. He thrives in being showered with affection by his family. In return, he loves to stay close and play with them.
At times, he might even become an adorable cuddlebug. Since mini lop rabbits are highly sociable, consider getting them in pairs, or else they will get easily bored and lonely.
Interactions with children especially younger ones should be constantly supervised. This is to avoid any accidents or injuries. If the children become too loud or noisy, it will cause extreme stress to the Holland lop rabbit.
Moreover, this bunny is very fragile. Mishandling may lead your rabbit to scratch or bite the handler. Mishandling may cause bone fractures and injuries to the rabbit.
The Holland lop goes along well with cats and dogs too. However, both pets must be properly introduced and socialised preferably at an early age. A rabbit that lacks socialisation may easily get spooked of his fellow family pet.
On the other hand, cats and dogs often have a high prey drive. Thus, they need to learn that Holland lop is a friend and not prey.
Although the Holland lop bunny is very friendly, he can be wary and shy upon arriving in his new home. Allow him to slowly adjust in his environment. Never force him to go near you since it will only cause the opposite effect. Instead, wait for him to approach you first.
Note that it may take time for your miniature lop to approach you. Be patient and do the process every day so that you will gradually gain his trust enough for him to initiate interaction.
Nutrition
Holland lop rabbit diet
70 to 75 per cent of the Holland lop rabbit’s diet must be composed of premium-quality hay such as timothy, grass, and oat hay. He should be given unrestricted access to freshwater and high-quality hay. The remaining should be a balanced combination of pellets, vegetables, and fruits.
Keep in mind that vegetables and fruits should not replace premium-quality hay. It should be fed in moderate to small amounts. Treats including fruits must not be given frequently to avoid weight gain and teeth damage.
Feeding
What do Holland lops eat?
A three-week-old miniature lop needs to solely feed on his mother’s milk. Give him small amounts of alfalfa hay after three weeks. Once he reaches seven weeks old, he should have unlimited amounts of alfalfa hay and pellets. An eight-week-old Holland lop kit is ready to be weaned.
When he turns seven months to one year old, gradually begin introducing high-quality hay to his diet. He should be given unrestricted access to these foods every day. Then, lower the amount of alfalfa hay and quality pellets since these are fattening to the Holland lop rabbit.
Only half a cup of pellets should be served per six pounds of body weight daily. Start introducing small amounts of vegetables and fruits. It should be no more than one to two ounces per six pounds of body weight daily.
A full-grown Holland lop rabbit requires unlimited amounts of high-quality hay. Meanwhile, the number of pellets should be reduced to one-fourth cup of pellets per six pounds of body weight per day.
Vegetables should be served around two cups per six pounds of body weight daily. Only feed him fruits sparingly. It should not exceed about two tablespoons per three kilograms of body weight every day.
Health
How long do dwarf lop-eared rabbits live?
The average lifespan of dwarf and miniature lop rabbits is around 9 to 10 years. Meanwhile, larger lop-ear rabbit breeds can live 5 to 6 years. As for the Holland lop rabbit, his lifespan is about 5 to 7 years.
Making sure that your Holland lop is properly provided with his day-to-day needs will increase his longevity. Neutering or spaying will also help in extending the Holland lop’s life.
Similar to most rabbit breeds, the Holland lop is prone to various health problems. Below are the most common illnesses in the breed that you should know of:
- Snuffles
- Hairballs
- Head tilt
- Myxomatosis
- Ear mites
- Sore hocks
- Parasites
As prey animals, rabbits are known for hiding signs of weaknesses including health problems. Thus, be keen on any changes in your rabbit behaviour such as his sleeping, feeding, and drinking routine. Check his body for any lumps, inflammations, or discharges. Get in touch with the vet if you find your Holland Lop exhibiting any of these symptoms.
Housing
Holland lop rabbit cage
The recommended minimum size for a Holland lop’s cage is 18×24 inches. However, if you can provide a bigger cage, then your bunny will appreciate it even more. Ensure that the sides of the cage are composed of wire to avoid him from chewing and destroying the cage. A litter tray needs to be placed under the enclosure’s wire flooring. Check out The Must-Read Guide to Rabbit Litter Training.
Your Holland lop bunny’s cage needs to be cleaned at least once a week. Place extra amounts of soft beddings inside as the enclosure’s wire bottoms can cause injuries to his feet. Clean up dirt and faeces on the beddings every day. Replace it with new beddings each week.
Read: How Do You Take Care of a Rabbit?
Cost of Ownership
How much does a Holland lop rabbit cost?
If you want to a healthy and well-bred Holland lop rabbit, you may need to pay around £60 to over £120. Food expenses may cost around £500–£700 each year. Providing him with basic supplies, which include litter trays, grooming supplies, and water and food bowls, may cost £510. Overall expense for rabbit housing and proofing your home is approximately £350.
Fees for check-ups and initial vaccinations may reach around £50. Health checks and preventative treatment expenses will cost you about £50 yearly. Getting your Holland bunny insured will add £10 to your monthly bills.
Fun Facts
- The Holland lop rabbit is dubbed as ‘The Hallmark Breed’ due to his friendly and gentle nature.
- The Holland lop is called as ‘Nederlandse Hangoor Dwerg.’ This means Dutch little hanging ear.
Are you keen on having a Holland lop as your pet rabbit? Visit our For Sale and Rehoming page for Mini Lops to find the perfect match for you.
Are you considering getting a pet rabbit, but not sure which rabbit breed to go for? Read 5 Things to Consider Before Getting a New Bunny, and The 6 Most Loved Rabbit Breeds.
