A Complete Guide to the Best Rabbit Breeds

The rare breed is a great choice for first-time owners because of its calm, sweet nature. Young children, however, are not recommended to care for them since they are shy and may bite if not handled gently. With a great grooming routine and healthy diet, the American rabbit can live up to 12 years.

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Tracing its roots back to the 18th century, the Belgian Hare is one of the oldest breeds. It thrives best outdoors with ample space and hay. It's considered high maintenance, mostly due to its nervous personality — known to easily spook if people don't properly announce themselves before approaching it.

Originating from France, the Blanc de Hotot can easily be spotted by its "black eyeliner" that contrasts the rest of its white body. As a bonus, these bunnies do well with children and other pets as long as they grow up with them. Dedicated brushing time and taking walks outside are amazing ways to bond with them.

A cross between a Himalayan and a Chinchilla, the Cal's dense coat allows them to enjoy time indoors and outdoors (including the snow). Although bred for show, the Californian loves to interact with its human family through play and cuddle time.

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Weighing in at about 13 pounds, a Checkered Giant is an ideal pet for couples or seniors looking for a companion. This breed is more independent than others and is less affectionate, but is still curious and gentle. Spot a Checkered Giant by the butterfly-like marking on its nose.

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Developed in England in the 1830s, the Dutch is one of the most popular breeds. Socializing is key for this energetic rabbit, who can become depressed if it spends too much time in its cage. Thanks to its easygoing attitude, children are more than welcomed to care for it.

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The English Lop's friendly, laid-back personality has earned it the nickname, "the Dog of the Rabbit World." It also holds the crown for having the longest ears, and it's no surprise this distinct feature requires a bit of maintenance. Their ears need to be regularly examined and their nails must be kept short (in case they step on their ears).

The English Spot easily adapted to being a house pet after its long show rabbit history, which helped it get used to constant petting and handling. This bunny will fit right into any family, and it's recommended that the breed spend at least two hours outside their cage to stretch and hop around.

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Tipping the scale at a whopping 22 pounds, this "Gentle Giant" is known as a universal rabbit (used for meat, show, coat, pet). It's not uncommon to see a Flemish Giant playing with dogs and even cuddling with them if they live together. Children of any age are encouraged to pet them, but not attempt to carry them due to their size.

If you're searching for a rabbit that will make a statement, the French Angora is it! Of course, their fur (also called wool) requires substantial attention to keep it clean and mat-free. Spending time around others is said to make them more friendly and sweeter, and are an ideal pet for couples who are ready to expand their family.

Called "the clown of the rabbit world," the Harlequin enjoys exploring its environment — room by room, inch by inch — even if its done it a dozen times before. Their active personalities make them perfect playmates for children and first-time owners.

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With a 14-year lifespan, weighing only four pounds, and irresistible floppy ears, this dwarf bunny is the ultimate pet for city dwellers. If you can spare the space, assign a specific room to your Holland Lop where they can happily sunbath, hop around, and keep their toys.

The Lionhead and its mane was recently introduced in the U.S. in the '90s, after becoming popular in Europe. Another great choice for apartment tenants, this small rabbit weighs about three pounds and can live up to 10 years. Families of any size can easily welcome this little lion into their home.

Unlike the Holland Lop and Lionhead, this particular dwarf needs more time to adjust being around humans. Through patience and love, owners soon see their true personality bloom — though small children aren't advised to take care of them.

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The Tan first emerged in 1880 in England and its popularity peaked over a century later. The full-arched breed is naturally energetic, but isn't recommended for young children or seniors. The active rabbit requires a lot of time outside its cage to run around and can be hard to keep up with.