Are you wondering about adding a soft ball of fur, hopping around in your home? But not sure which one to choose? It’s okay. Choosing a perfect furball is like choosing a best pal, which will stick around for years but it can be difficult. Many different types of rabbits can be your pet with unique personalities, cuddle rates, and of course soft fluff factors. Bunnies can be lively and playful just like any other pet but some of them also require close attention.
We have created a list of 15 of the best rabbit breeds for pets from which you can choose your favorite. However, we don’t want you to choose wrong and suffer with the loss of all the bunny cuddles. So before choosing, ask yourself these few important questions. How much time will you spend with your new rabbit pal? Will they live outdoors or indoors? And are you prepared to take care of all their small needs? Don’t worry, these are just basics.
If you made it this far, then it is a sign to find your hopping friend. Read our list of top 15 bunny breeds with all the important whimsy bits and details to help you find the perfect pet.
1. Mini Rex
The first whiskered friend on our list is Mini Rex. Nope, they are not related to the famously huge T-rex. In fact, Mini Rexes are the smallest and softest breed of rabbit. Mini Rexes were first found in 1800, in France. With a weight between 3.5-4.5 lbs., this bunny breed has classic long ears with a short round body. Their body is covered with soft and fluffy fur that sticks out making them a fuzzy fur ball. They have a charmingly friendly personality with a calm and quiet aura. However, they don’t like being tightly held. It makes them uncomfortable and they can wiggle out from your grip. They are one of the most prominent pet rabbit breeds that live up to 5-7 years and require less maintenance, which makes them perfect for children.
2. Holland Lop
Next on our list is Holland Lops. These pint-sized breeds of rabbits are one of the best bunny breeds and are absolutely adorable. They will make you say “Aww, so cute!” the moment you see them. Them are dwarf rabbits, weighing just 2-4 lbs, making them the smallest in the rabbit community. It hopped their way from the Netherlands to the American Rabbit Breeders Association in the year 1979 and have been popular ever since. Their small, round, furry body is complemented by large floppy ears. Holland Lop is extremely sociable and friendly and makes the playtime an absolute blast. They need a good session of brushing in the summers as they shed more during those months.
3. Mini Lop
Mini Lops are also one of the most charming pet rabbit breeds. They are very much like Holland Lops, with their cute tiny fluffy body, long, thick floppy ears, and patterned fur. With just 4.5-6 lbs, they are a huge fan of human interaction making them the biggest cuddlers. They have a 5–10 years life expectancy which is great for a pet. Mini Lops with their tiny legs and sniffing noses stand out as one of the most bubbly and joyful bunny breeds that can easily be litter-trainable. Along with their bouncy personality, they are curious nibblers and can make any item into their chew toy.
4. Mini Satin
The next softie on our list of best rabbits for pets is Mini Satin. It is a 3-4.5 lbs, soft and silky bunny rabbit with a lifespan of 5-8 years. Mini Satin is a smaller form of the larger satin breed which got quite famous in the year 1956, due to their glossy fur. They are available in a variety of patterns and colors. Their compact round body makes them one of the most beautiful rabbits. They do have a friendly, calm nature but they take their time to open up around new people and energetic children. Mini Satin is a perfect cuddly friend with little to no extra maintenance, making them ideal for small apartments.
5. Dutch Lop
With a unique split monochrome color palette, Dutch rabbits are the cutest pet rabbit breed. You think they are from the Netherlands but actually, they were found in England. They have long elongated dark ears and white bellies. Their 4-5 lbs soft body is perfect for adding a soft calming feeling to your home. They have a welcoming personality that needs regular playtime, otherwise, they can feel depressed and sad. With 5-8 years of lifespan, their kind comforted aura is an excellent option for your bouncing little ones.
6. Dwarf Hotot
Dwarf Hotots are the cutest of all bunny breeds. With just 2.5-3.5 lbs, this tiny bundle of fluff has been winning over people’s hearts with its unique dual color. Their round body is covered in white fur, whereas their eyes have a sophisticated eyeliner style. They belong to the family of large Blanc de Hotot but soon became one of the most favorite pet rabbit breeds of all time. Their soft, round body and upright ears make the cutest combination. They are good for older kids as they are playful and friendly but can also have occasional mood swings and require a little more caring than other breeds due to the risk of malocclusion. However, when they bond, they will be your best friend for their complete lifespan which is 7-10 years.
7. Netherland Dwarf
Next in line for best rabbits for pets is the Netherland Dwarf. This little charmer weighs only 1.1-2.5 pounds, making it the smallest pet rabbit. Their shy personality is not ideal for little children; however, they are great for introverted adults who want peace and calm in their lives. Netherland Dwarfs need quite a lot of space to hop around along with careful care as they are prone to dental problems. Their small body with legs and short ears also requires a quiet and secure environment mixed with lots of love and comfort. They have a 10–12-year life expectancy.
8. Polish
With a light weight of 2.5-3.5 pounds, a Polish rabbit is a round ball of fur. They are extremely soft, cuddly, and perfect for small-sized apartments. This dwarf breed is available in many colors such as ruby-eyed white, blue-eyed white, black, blue, chocolate, and even a fun broken pattern. They make great pets for kids but they also require close attention due to their tiny size. As compared to other breeds, they are remarkably low maintenance and are quickly trainable. With a 5-6 years life expectancy, Polish rabbits can become more than a pet in a few years.
9. Lionhead
The 2.5 — 3.5 lb, a fluffy Lionhead rabbit is distinguished by its distinctive “mane” of fur around its head and back, giving it an air of royalty. This breed, which originated in Belgium from a cross between the Swiss Fox and the Netherland Dwarf, is known for its friendly and vivacious disposition in addition to its majestic look. They are the ideal playmates for energetic youngsters since they love to play and to be held in your arms. Their gorgeous fur needs to be combed often to avoid tangles, but the friendly nuzzles make it all worthwhile. Lionheads, who have a lifetime of seven to ten years, are the lifeblood of the family. They combine lively happiness with the softest cuddling, making them genuinely endearing and fascinating pets.
10. Jersey Wooly
Jersey Wooly, a cross between French Angora and Netherland Dwarf rabbits, is one of the smallest types of rabbits with a weight of 1-3 pounds. They have a distinct square head with thick, wooly fur around their very small body. Even though they are the tiniest, they have a gentle yet friendliest personality that makes them perfectly compatible with children. They never bite or kick their owners which is great. They can be a great pet for a small family as they don’t take up much space and can fit right in. This tiny hopper with a lifespan of 7-10 years is all about giving and receiving warmth and affection. However, they have a little risk of wool block due to their wool.
11. Californian
Moving on to a slightly bigger size, we have the Californian Rabbit. They are strong and muscular rabbit breeds with a weight of 8-10.5 pounds. With a dense and rough coat of fur, they have a life expectancy of 5-10 years. They were first bred for their lavish hair and perfect meat, however, because of their friendly and outgoing nature, they easily hopped their way out from the market and into people’s homes and hearts. They require a good combing session as they shed in the springs, along with some time out of the cage to stretch their legs. Californian Rabbits have a combination of qualities such as their quiet and calm nature complemented by a certain sense of humor which is perfect for a house pet. Due to their shy behavior, they are ideal for older children.
12. Harlequin
Harlequin rabbit is another bunny breed that can be your next pet. It is a medium-sized breed with a weight of about 6.5-9.5 pounds. These cotton balls can easily be distinguished among the others with their big beady eyes, long floppy ears, and multi-colored fur pattern. They originated in France and were once known as Japanese Rabbit. Harlequins are curious, not-so-little creatures that love to play, interact, and snuggle, and require space large enough to run. They are quite beautiful if we think about it. With a good lifespan of 5-8 years, they can be a superb addition to any family. Harlequins do not have any serious health risks but they do need to be exercised, which they love to do anyway.
13. Havana
The Havana Rabbit is another good breed to have as a pet in your home. With a weight of 4.5-6.5 pounds, they are small, cozy, round, and very cute. Similarly, like Dutch Lop and its mysterious name, Havana rabbits originated from Holland rather than Cuba. However, they do remind us of Cuban cigars due to their dark chocolate color. They have lusciously soft fur that comes in black, blue, chocolate, and broken patterns. With no serious health issues, they have a good lifespan of 5-8 years. They have a calm and soft personality but also create a strong bond with people. Havana rabbits are perfect for those who are looking for an easy-to-go, warm, and quiet friend.
14. Standard Chinchilla
For all the extroverts, our next bunny breed is for you. Chinchilla Rabbit is one of the best breeds for children and people who love to play and have fun. They love their hand holding time and adore close petting. Weighing 5-7 pounds, Chinchillas are known for their kind, calm, and extremely loving personality. They are a unique cross between Himalayan rabbits and wild Beveren. Chinchilla have an overall chubby appearance with a silky soft coat of fur and long, upright ears. They love to hop around the house so a garden will be a great plus. However, they are vulnerable to ear mites and overgrown teeth. Other than this, they do not require any extra attention as long as they are getting lots of love and snuggles.
15. Himalayan
Similar to the Californian Rabbit, the Himalayan Rabbit is one of the oldest breeds of rabbit with no specific known origins. It is quite fascinating to have a pet that is mysterious yet beautiful. They have short white hair that is highlighted by the black on their feet, ears, and nose in a unique egg-shaped mark. Their calm and very patient personality make them perfect for an indoor pet for children. With no extra, over-the-top care, Himalayan rabbits do need attention in winter as they are extremely sensitive to cold. They have a lifespan of 5-8 years and in these years, they can become one of your best friends.
Wrapping up
As we hop to the end, we have covered all the perfect bunny breeds we think can be your next pet. Whether it’s the strong Californian, or the cutest Netherland Dwarf, choosing the right bunny is all about the personality you will be comfortable with. Don’t forget, bunnies have unique personalities too. Go now and pick your favorite furry friend!
Faq’s
Q: Which kind of rabbit is perfect for children?
The best rabbit breeds for children are Standard Chinchilla and Harlequin Rabbit. Both of these breeds are adaptable, lively, and extremely cuddly. Other than regular care, these rabbits can live easily with people with kids.
Q: Can dogs and rabbits live in the same house as pets?
Yes, you can adopt or buy a pet rabbit even if you have a pet dog. Rabbit breeds which are less cautious outdoors can get along with dogs very well. Slowly introduce your rabbit to your dog and watch them engage and become best friends in a few weeks.
Q: What should be the feeding routine of my rabbit?
Hay is the most regular and common item that should be given to your rabbit. Add fresh vegetables and pellets to their diet but give according to your rabbit’s weight and age.
Q: Should we make our rabbits exercise?
Yes, rabbits need a good exercise hour to stay healthy and running. Let them hop, run, and explore outside of their cage to give them enough space. Make sure to keep an eye on your rabbit.
Q: What are the common symptoms that indicate your rabbit is sick?
The common signs are changes in their eating habits, sneezing, and fatigue. A change in urinating patterns is also a sign to take your rabbit to the vet.
