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Science & Nature • Rabbit Breeds

Holland Lop

The Holland Lop is a domesticated breed of rabbit developed in the Netherlands and recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1979.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Holland Lop is a domesticated breed of rabbit developed in the Netherlands and recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1979. It is known for its small size, lop ears, compact build, and wide range of coat colours. The breed is among the most popular rabbit breeds in the United States and the United Kingdom.

History

The Holland Lop was developed in the Netherlands by Adrian de Cock as a smaller lop-eared rabbit. It was created by crossing the French Lop with the Netherland Dwarf and was later recognized by ARBA in 1979.

Appearance

The breed is characterized by its small size, compact and muscular body, and ears that hang close to the face. It has a wide range of recognized coat colours and patterns.

Temperament and care

Holland Lops are commonly kept as companion animals and are known for their popularity as pets. Like other domestic rabbits, they require appropriate housing, diet, and regular care.

Breed standards

ARBA lists the Holland Lop as a breed with a maximum adult weight of 4 pounds. Breed standards emphasize a compact build, heavy bone, and the distinctive lop ear carriage.

Key facts

  • The Holland Lop is one of the smallest lop-eared rabbit breeds.
  • It was developed in the Netherlands by breeder Adrian de Cock.
  • ARBA recognized the breed in 1979.
  • The breed typically weighs up to 4 pounds (1.8 kg).
  • Holland Lops have a compact, muscular body and floppy ears.
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Canadian context

Holland Lops are kept by rabbit owners and breeders in Canada, but there is no unique Canada-specific origin or regulatory history noted in the available sources.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Holland Lop?
A Holland Lop is a domestic rabbit breed known for its small size, lop ears, and compact body.
Where did the Holland Lop originate?
The breed originated in the Netherlands.
Who developed the Holland Lop?
It was developed by Dutch breeder Adrian de Cock.
What breeds were used to create it?
The breed was developed from the French Lop and the Netherland Dwarf.
How much do Holland Lops weigh?
ARBA gives the breed a maximum adult weight of 4 pounds (1.8 kg).
Why is the Holland Lop popular?
It is popular as a pet breed because of its small size, distinctive appearance, and wide availability in many coat colours.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holland_Lop
    Supports: Origin, ancestry, size, recognition, and general breed characteristics.
  2. American Rabbit Breeders Association — https://arba.net/holland-lop/
    Supports: Breed development, ARBA recognition, popularity, and maximum weight.
  3. PetMD — https://www.petmd.com/rabbit/breeds/holland-lop
    Supports: Origin, ancestry, recognition date, lifespan, weight, and coat variation.
  4. Lafeber Company — https://lafeber.com/mammals/holland-lop-rabbit-breed/
    Supports: Origin, ancestry, weight, colors, and recognition details.
  5. Animal Kingdom — https://animalkingdom.org/species/holland-lop/
    Supports: Classification as a domesticated breed of the European rabbit.