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5 Popular Rabbit Breeds for Families

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Rabbits come in different shapes and sizes. While some bunnies have floppy ears and fuzzy buts, others possess a more “standard” look—long, erect ears, wide eyes, and short fur. These cuddly critters are incredibly popular among families, and for good reason.  Along with being absolutely adorable, bunnies are super intelligent, social, and affectionate with their […]

Rabbits come in different shapes and sizes. While some bunnies have floppy ears and fuzzy buts, others possess a more “standard” look—long, erect ears, wide eyes, and short fur. These cuddly critters are incredibly popular among families, and for good reason. 

Along with being absolutely adorable, bunnies are super intelligent, social, and affectionate with their loved ones. Of course, like most pets, each rabbit has their own distinctive personality traits. Most families enjoy seeing their bunnies show off their playful and sassy sides. 

If you’d like to adopt a beautiful and snuggly rabbit into your life, our blog lists 5 popular rabbit breeds that are perfect for families. Let’s take a look at each breed to help you find your perfect furry match!

1. Mini Rex

Petland Texas picture of Mini Rex rabbit sitting on a brown couch.

Due to its miniature size and sweet-natured personality, the Mini Rex has become a popular rabbit breed for many bunny enthusiasts. It’s a very bright and easygoing bunny; they enjoy giving affection and playing with their loved ones. The Mini Rex is most famous for its soft, plush fur that’s often described as “living velvet.” Typical fur colors include black, gray, brown or white. Many Mini Rex rabbits also have splotched patterns rather than one solid color on their fur. Their calm nature, light grooming needs, and small size makes their wonderful pets for any family!

2. Lionhead Rabbit

Petland Texas picture of grey Lionhead rabbit sitting in a garden.

Small yet surprisingly fancy, Lionhead rabbits are fluffy bunnies known for one distinctive trait: their “lion’s mane”—as in, the hair around their head and ears that gives them a lion-like appearance. This breed can have either a single or double mane; their double mane can extend to their rear as a fluffy, wool skirt. Lionheads are compact but very petite in size, only reaching up to 4 pounds in weight. Their miniature size and soft fur makes this breed a perfect choice as a “purse or pocket pet.” Lionheads are also perky and good-natured critters. They’re always willing to play, and can even tolerate children. Their gentle disposition and good manners make the Lionhead a great family pet!

3. English Lop

Petland Texas picture of two English Lop rabbits sitting in front of white background.

You can easily recognize English Lops for its long, floppy ears. As one of the first domesticated rabbit breeds, English Lops are popular for their laidback and friendly temperament. In fact, these bunnies are so laidback that they’re considered lazy by expert rabbit owners. With enough gentle encouragement, you can convince these rabbits to display their playful side. Like its droopy ears (up to 31 to 34 inches in length), English Lops possess a long and lean body that resembles a mandolin. Overall, these bunnies are great pets but must be given extra care when handled. 

4. Dutch Rabbit

Petland Texas picture of a cute Dutch rabbit sitting on grass in a park.

Native to Holland, Dutch rabbits are one of the oldest domesticated rabbit breeds. They can be small or medium in size, typically weighing around 4 pounds. Dutch rabbits can be distinguished by their marked fur pattern—white fur on the face, shoulders, and neck while the remaining fur is black, brown, blue, or tortoiseshell. These bunnies are extremely serene and easygoing. They love being cuddled and given attention by their loved ones. Dutch rabbits are also great with children, but require supervision for kids younger than 10 years old. These rabbits thrive best with playtime and affection so it’s important for families to interact with their Dutch bunny on a regular basis.

5. Netherland Dwarf Rabbit

Petland Texas picture of an adorable black Netherland Dwarf rabbit sitting on grass.

Out of all the breeds in existence, the Netherland Dwarf rabbit is one of the smallest, weighing only 2.5 pounds as adults. Their fur color and patterns can range between black, white, blue, red, and more. What makes the Netherland Dwarf rabbit popular among families is their “babyish look”— their short ears and round eyes make them so endearing to anyone who looks at them! While these bunnies can be affectionate and loving, they are also known for their stubborn streak and energetic disposition. They need attention and care to be happy and healthy in their new home.

Rabbits can be amazing pets with the right family. Like cats and dogs, bunnies deserve love and attention from their loved ones. Remember to handle your new cuddly friend with gentle care. A rabbit that’s handled properly from a young age will display confident and fearless behavior around humans. And of course, if you have children, be sure to supervise them whenever they’re playing with their rabbit friend. We hope this list helps you choose the right rabbit breed for your home!

Please check out our blog, A Guide to Puppy Playtime Habits for some tips on your puppy’s playtime fun!