Fur and flesh condition are only worth 12 points within the standard of the Holland Lop yet, they play a crucial role in raising a competitive animal because they affect various other traits that are allotted greater points. Condition of fur controls the crown as well as head shape. Body condition controls how the judge perceives an animal’s overall type. While only allotted few points, they are some of the most important traits to consider when raising Holland Lops.
The overall appearance of a Holland Lop is controlled by its genetic make-up as well as the environment that it is raised in. Often times breeders focus strictly on the animal’s diet. While feeding a high quality pellet is important, the ability to have fur and body condition is controlled by the animal’s genes. Because of their genetic make-up, some individuals will never carry the same fur or condition as others no matter what feed or supplement they are given. The exact opposite is also true. Animals that have excellent genetics
for fur and flesh condition will not exhibit these qualities if provided poor feed.
Selecting animals with good body condition should be one of the main aspects of a breeding program. Animals that feel soft in flesh should not be used for breeding. Selecting animals with firm flesh can be done at a young age (as early as twelve weeks.) Oftentimes animals that are soft in flesh do not excel on the show table because they do not fully fill the bone structure making the animal feel narrow, hollow and pinched. Also, animals that are soft in flesh tend to lose condition more quickly and will not travel as well as
a firmly bodied animal. If bred properly, Holland Lops require no additional feed supplements to carry body and fur condition that will allow them to excel on the show table.