Top 10 Most Popular Rabbit Breeds

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Top 10 Most Popular Rabbit Breeds

Introduction

Are you looking to add a big-eared, hay-munching member to your family? While they require more care than many people would think, rabbits make great pets. Unlike dogs, they’re quiet and won’t bark at the slightest noise. Unlike cats, they won’t wake you up at 6 a.m. demanding to be fed. Rabbits can be trained to do tricks and use the litter box, they know how to keep themselves clean, and they’re affectionate little critters. In other words, rabbits are pawsome! There are several breeds of rabbits, each with their own endearing characteristics. Here are 10 of the most popular to help you find your new adorable companion!

#1 Holland Lop

The Holland Lop, developed in the Netherlands as a smaller version of the French Lop, sports cute floppy ears that frame their large head. Add a friendly personality to the mix, and you’ve got a breed that’s a sure winner! It’s easy to see why this breed, which comes in more than 30 colors, is one of the most popular around the world.

#2 Mini Lop

Though a relatively small breed, the Mini Lop is actually larger than the Holland Lop. With their stocky body, softball-sized head, and delightful lopped ears, there’s nothing small about the appeal of this breed. The Mini Lop is as cuddly and as affectionate as they look, making them a joy to have around the house.

#3 Dutch

Easily recognizable by their distinctive markings, the Dutch rabbit looks like they’re wearing a white shirt and dark pants. Despite their name, this popular breed was actually developed in England during the 1830s. Gentle and easygoing, the Dutch makes a wonderful addition to the family for both first-time and experienced rabbit parents.

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#4 Lionhead

With a magnificent mane around their head, the Lionhead rabbit is definitely hard to miss despite their small size. The Lionhead only became an officially recognized breed in the US in 2014, but their popularity has grown steadily thanks to their eye-catching looks and lovable personality. Though energetic and playful, this breed will also accompany you while you’re watching TV or reading a book.

#5 French Lop

First introduced to the US in 1971, the French Lop is a large rabbit breed with long ears, chubby cheeks, and a wide forehead. This heavy-boned breed typically weighs 5-6 kg at adulthood, but don’t be intimidated by their massive size—the French Lop is known for being a calm and good-natured breed.

#6 Californian

If you’re looking for a breed that loves to play, then the Californian is a furrific choice. Though they may seem shy at first, this breed is a “people rabbit” whose personality will shine with proper socialization. Almost completely white except for black markings on the nose, ears, feet, and tail, the Californian enjoys both playtime and cuddle time.

#7 Dwarf Papillon

“Papillon” means butterfly in French, and you’ll know a Dwarf Papillon when you see one thanks to the butterfly marking on their nose. The Dwarf Papillon also has ears that adorably stick up in the shape of a V and a spine marking that runs along their back. For a leporine companion that’s strikingly cute, you can’t go wrong with this breed!

#8 Netherland Dwarf

Weighing in at only 2.5 lbs, the Netherland Dwarf is one of the smallest rabbit breeds. With a brachycephalic head, short ears, and large eyes, there’s no dispute about their cuteness. The Netherland Dwarf can be skittish, however, so they’re not recommended for young children. But with the right family, this sweet little bunny will come out of their shell.

#9 Mini Rex

Developed as a smaller version of the standard Rex, the Mini Rex is known for their plush fur, just like their larger counterpart. It is said that petting a Mini Rex feels like touching velvet; fortunately, their luxurious coat does not require a lot of maintenance! Calm and friendly, this breed does well with children and retirees.

#10 Flemish Giant

The gentle giant of the rabbit world, the Flemish Giant is the one of the largest and oldest recognized breeds. They can weigh up to 20 lbs, but as their nickname implies, they are laid-back and well-mannered. Thus, despite their huge size, the Flemish Giant makes a wonderful companion for first-time rabbit parents as well as families with kids of any age.