How to Breed a Dutch Rabbit

Dutch rabbits have mild temperments and an affable nature.

Dutch rabbits are a fancy rabbit breed that are recognizable by their unique color schemes which always include a band of white. According to the Verlannahill Rabbitry, Dutch rabbits are the oldest domestic rabbit breed known to man. They are mild-tempered and ideal for children. Breeding Dutch rabbits takes planning and preparation to ensure that your breed stays pure and that deformities do not occur due to genetic differences.

Instructions

1. Choose a doe and buck that both have full cheeks and the desired colors. Dutch rabbits have a central band of white as well as white brows and muzzles, surrounded by another solid color on the back, rear, ears and around the eyes. Colors include black, blue, chocolate, gray, and steel. Though not as common, the Tortoise Dutch features the unique white band with a blending of bronze and smokey-blue fur. Avoid sickly or under-weight rabbits when breeding to ensure a healthy litter. Ask about the parentage of the doe and buck. How long did the parents live? How many litters did they produce? What was their temperament?

2. Check the age of your doe. Does that are bred at six months of age are best. Does that have reached one year old will have difficulty giving birth because their hip bones have fused together.

3. Place your doe and buck together in a cage separate from other rabbits. The cage should be no smaller than 24-inches square and larger is better. The buck's sperm production is best during warm months, while it dwindles in the winter. Springtime is best, although rabbits can breed year round.

4. Clean your breeding cage regularly to ensure healthy conception. Avoid anything that would promote bacterial growth such as fresh food left to spoil. Ensure your rabbits are fed and watered adequately.

5. Remove the doe from the breeding cage once pregnancy is confirmed. Rabbits will continue to mate, even after conception. Place the doe in a separate cage for the duration of pregnancy. Do not allow contact with other rabbits.

Tips & Warnings

• Dutch rabbits give birth after 28 to 31 days gestation. The doe will be required to stay with the litter until they are completely weaned and able to eat regular food.

References

• Verlannahill Rabbitry: Dutch Rabbit Genetics
• Pet Planet: Rabbit - Dutch Profile
• American Dutch Rabbit Club: Breeding Dutch - A Breeding Method for the Small Breeder
• Verlannahill Rabbitry: All About Dutch Rabbits
• American Dutch Rabbit Club: About the Breed