Sallander Rabbits, from the Salland region in the Netherlands, were developed by crossbreeding Agouti Chinchilla Rabbits and Dutch Thuringer Rabbits in the 1970s. Sallander rabbits are known for their incredible color: their lovely fur has light gray markings that darken on the belly, flanks, and cheeks.
When this breed was first developed, the kits had a striking appearance, as their coat appeared as though it had been painted by an artist. Because of its beautiful coat, this breed is now making its way into other rabbit breeds, including the Lionhead Rabbit and lop breeds.
In 1975, the Sallander Rabbit was formally recognized, and the breed was then exported to the United Kingdom in the ‘90s. Today, it is rarely seen outside of the U.K. and the Netherlands.
A Sallander Rabbit can be described as fairly stocky and rounded, as well as muscular, cobby, and medium in size. Their neck is barely visible, as it is short, but the head is robust and features a broad muzzle. Their legs are short and powerful. Their ears are wide and long, and they are roughly 4 or 5 inches long. They have bright eyes that give them an alert and bold appearance. Their nails are horn or gray in color. Their ears, tail, feet, and face are a deep, dark gray that ends up creating a strong contrast with the light gray that is found across most of the body.
Sallander Rabbits are lively, active, and skittish.