Holland Lop
A small, sturdy lop with a big head, bred in the Netherlands from French Lop and Netherland Dwarf stock.
Origin
The Holland Lop was created by Adriaan de Cock of Tilburg in the Netherlands, a breeder who admired the French Lop but wanted a much smaller lop-eared rabbit. Beginning in 1949, he crossed French Lops with Netherland Dwarfs. The early offspring had upright ears, so in 1952 an English Lop was brought into the program to restore the lop. The breed was recognized in the Netherlands in 1964. Imports reached the United States in the 1970s, and ARBA recognized the Holland Lop in 1979.
Typical Adult Size
A dwarf lop, with an ARBA maximum of 4 pounds (about 1.8 kg) for adults. Compact and well muscled, it feels surprisingly solid for its size.
Coat Type
Dense fur of medium length that rolls back gently into place when stroked from tail to head.
Colors
A very wide range, shown as solid or broken patterns. ARBA’s list includes agoutis, self colors, shaded colors, pointed whites, tortoiseshells, otters, steels and tri-colors.
Temperament
Generally friendly, curious and playful. As with all small breeds, individuals vary: some are confident lap rabbits, while others stay reserved until they feel settled.
Grooming and Care
Weekly brushing is usually enough, with more during molts. Lopped ears are worth checking regularly for wax or debris, since they get less airflow than upright ears. Despite its size, a Holland needs daily exercise and room to run and hop.
Distinctive Features
A large, round head with a short face and a well-developed crown, thick ears that hang close to the cheeks, and a short, deep, wide body.
What Makes It Notable
ARBA counts the Holland Lop among its five most popular breeds. It also gave rise to another breed: wool-coated "fuzzy" Hollands became the American Fuzzy Lop.