Netherland Dwarf rabbits are inquisitive, affectionate pets and make wonderful companions, especially in households with older children. They are one of the smallest rabbit breeds, typically weighing 2–3 pounds when fully grown. Netherland Dwarfs come in many colors and personalities and have an average lifespan of 7–10 years.

Quick Start Guide for New Owners

• Provide unlimited timothy hay (alfalfa only for young rabbits under 6 months, or for pregnant/nursing does).

• Fresh water should always be available in a heavy bowl or water bottle/bowl.

• Give daily playtime in a safe, rabbit-proofed area.

• Place a litter box with rabbit-safe litter (we use kiln-dried pelletized bedding, but there are plenty of safe options such as paper-based litters or aspen). Always provide fresh hay in or above the box (we love using a toy storage organizer as a hanging hay rack) works great for keeping hay clean and accessible.

• Feed high-quality pellets (We feed Blue Seal, but you can switch to brands such as Oxbow, Sherwood).

• Offer safe chew toys and hiding spots.

• Schedule annual checkups with an experienced exotic veterinarian in your area.

Housing

Pet store cages are often too small for rabbits to live in comfortably. Rabbits need plenty of room to hop, stretch, and explore. A secure exercise pen (x-pen), a roomy indoor rabbit condo, or even a large dog playpen makes a much better home.

Minimum space: Your rabbit should be able to take at least three full hops in one direction and stand on their hind legs without touching the top. Bigger is always better!

Inside your rabbit’s living space, provide:

• Unlimited hay in a rack, basket, or over their litter box.

• Fresh water in a heavy ceramic bowl or a water bottle.

• Safe flooring such as fleece blankets, towels, washable pee pads, or kiln-dried pelletized bedding. if using wire flooring —  add grass mats or resting mats.

• A litter box in the corner, filled with rabbit-safe litter (paper-based, aspen, or pine pellets) and topped with fresh hay. Rabbits prefer to eat and potty at the same time!

• Hideouts and enrichment: tunnels, cardboard boxes, and huts where they can retreat.

Always supervise free-roam play. Rabbits are excellent chewers and may damage cords, furniture, and baseboards if not bunny-proofed.

Enrichment and Chewing

Rabbits need to chew for dental health and mental stimulation. Provide safe options, including:

• Apple and willow branches, bamboo sticks (never cherry, peach, apricot, plum, or redwood, as these are toxic)

• Cardboard boxes, grass mats, huts, and tunnels

• Plastic stacking cups and foraging toys

• Paper towel rolls stuffed with hay or treats

Behavior and Handling

Rabbits communicate through body language:

• Relaxed rabbits often stretch out on their stomachs or flop on their side.

• Excited rabbits may “binky,” running and jumping into the air.

• A nervous rabbit may thump its back feet, hide, or remain tense.

Handling must be done carefully, as rabbits are fragile. Always support the entire body, especially the hindquarters, when picking up your rabbit. When placing them down, lower them rear-end first into their enclosure to reduce the chance of jumping. Build trust gradually and let your rabbit feel comfortable before attempting frequent handling.

Diet

A healthy rabbit diet should include:

Hay

• Unlimited timothy hay for adults

• Alfalfa hay only for rabbits under 6 months, pregnant does, or nursing does

• Hay supports digestive health and prevents dental disease

Greens (ADULT RABBITS ONLY)

• A variety of leafy greens in small amounts daily (e.g., romaine, parsley, cilantro, dandelion greens, carrot tops, bok choy, kale in moderation)

• Introduce one vegetable at a time to avoid digestive upset

Pellets

• Adults: 1/4 cup of plain, high-quality pellets daily

• Young rabbits (under 3 months): unlimited pellets

• Avoid mixes with seeds or dried fruit, as they can cause digestive and dental issues

Transitioning to a New Pellet Brand

If you plan to change your rabbit’s pellets from the food we provide, it’s very important to do so gradually. Sudden diet changes can cause digestive upset. Use this schedule as a guide:

• Days 1–3: 75% old pellets, 25% new pellets

• Days 4–6: 50% old pellets, 50% new pellets

• Days 7–9: 25% old pellets, 75% new pellets

• Day 10+: 100% new pellets

Tips:

• Always provide unlimited hay and fresh water during the transition.

• Monitor your rabbit’s droppings — they should remain round and firm. If you notice soft stools or refusal to eat, slow down the transition.

• Avoid introducing new greens or treats at the same time as a pellet change, so you can clearly tell how your rabbit is adjusting.

Treats (ADULT RABBITS ONLY)

• Offer sparingly: small pieces of fruit (such as apple, strawberry, banana) or vegetables (such as carrot, squash)

• Fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or mint can also be used in moderation

Veterinary Care

• Common rabbit health issues include dental disease, gastrointestinal stasis, external parasites, and cancer in older rabbits.

• While the decision is ultimately up to each owner, spaying or neutering is highly recommended for pet rabbits. Female rabbits have a very high risk of developing uterine cancer, which can be prevented by spaying. Neutering males helps reduce urine spraying and territorial behaviors, and can make them calmer companions.

  In addition to preventing health problems, spaying/neutering often helps rabbits live longer, healthier lives. It can also make bonding with another rabbit easier and safer, reducing the risk of fighting.

• While rabbits do not require vaccinations, yearly exams with an exotic veterinarian can help detect health problems early.

• Any rabbit that suddenly stops eating, stops producing feces, or has trouble breathing should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as these are signs of potentially life-threatening conditions.