There are many reasons people love rabbits as pets, and one of those reasons is that many breeds provide love and affection. Some develop deep bonds with their owners and become an irreplaceable part of the family. Here is a list of the top 10 affectionate breeds that also sport friendly temperaments.
The 10 Most Affectionate Rabbit Breeds
1. Lionhead Rabbit
Lionhead rabbits came to the United States in 1998 and were approved by the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 2014 as an official breed. So, they are a relatively new breed in the States that is becoming more popular because of their well-mannered temperaments.
They are compact with rounded bodies and have a “wooly mane” that is similar to a lion’s mane. They are good-natured, tolerant of children, and one of the friendliest breeds. They love to spend time with their owners, so make sure you give them the attention they crave, and they will love you in return.
2. Mini Lop Rabbit
Mini Lops are adorable with floppy ears and stocky bodies. They are known for their love of cuddling and are affectionate. They make great pets for children because they tolerate being picked up frequently and are happiest when receiving attention in the form of pets and cuddles. The Mini Lop was discovered in a German National Rabbit Show in 1972 and was introduced in the United States in 1974. It wasn’t long before they became a well-loved breed by rabbit owners.
3. Harlequin Rabbit
The Harlequin rabbit is one of the oldest breeds from France; it was developed in the 1880s and recognized in the States in the 1920s. They make great pets and show animals because they are clever yet docile. Their calm temperament and gentle nature make them ideal pets for kids. They are affectionate but won’t sleep on your lap by any means. However, they love to be petted and scratched on the back. You can recognize them by their medium body size, short fur, and unique colors and markings.
4. Polish Rabbit
The Polish rabbit was a popular breed in Europe that made its way to America around 1912. Since they are small (3.5 pounds or less), they are easy to cuddle. Though they tolerate kids, it is wise not to let small children handle them to prevent the rabbit from being dropped or accidentally hurt since they are so little.
Polish rabbits have a docile temperament and love being held and petted. Because they are smart and mild-mannered, magicians often use them.
5. Rex Rabbit
You will recognize the Rex rabbits because of their luxurious coat that has a velvety texture, though they can come in up to 16 colors. This friendly rabbit is a good choice for a family pet because they enjoy being picked up and cuddled by their human companions and will become attached to their family. They are intelligent and can be playful at times but will always allow attention and love to be shown to them. The Rex rabbit comes in a standard breed and a miniature, but you will find the same temperament in both.
6. English Spot Rabbit
The sweet-natured English Spot is ideal for families with children, first-time rabbit owners, and seniors because they are some of the friendliest and most affectionate rabbits. They are curious, full of energy, and make entertaining companions. English Spots have a long history of being show rabbits, so they are used to being held, handled, and petted, which is one reason that they make great pets. They can come in several colors and markings with a white base coat and spots along their backs.
7. Jersey Wooly Rabbit
When you cross a French Angora with a Netherland dwarf, you get the Jersey Wooly. They weigh 1 to 3 pounds and are considered a dwarf breed. They have long coats that need to be brushed once weekly, so require more maintenance than other breeds. But since they are soft and fluffy, you can’t resist cuddling with them. They are gentle and make great pets for seniors who prefer calm companions. The Jersey Wooly is also suitable for children because they don’t kick or bite. They can be laid back, though some are more outgoing and enjoy exploring their environment.
8. Himalayan Rabbit
Himalayan rabbits have fantastic personalities and are one of the best breeds for children. They are white with black or blue markings and weigh 3 to 5 pounds. As the name suggests, they originated in the Himalayan Mountains and were first seen in the United States in the early 1900s. Himalayas have laid-back temperaments and enjoy being snuggled and petted. Since they have a history of being show rabbits, they are calm and don’t mind being handled.
9. Havana Rabbit
The Havana rabbit originated in the Netherlands in 1898, and they got their name from their coloring, which resembles a Havana Cigar. They were introduced in the United States in the 1980s, and they make good show animals and family pets for older children. Havanas are friendly and are known for their calm demeanor, and their love of attention and affection, though they can be lively and enjoy roaming freely indoors or in an enclosed yard. Since they aren’t high-energy rabbits, they are also ideal for seniors.
10. Standard Chinchilla Rabbit
Chinchilla rabbits arrived in the States around 1920 and were instantly popular. As long as they handle them with care, they love to be held by their owners and strangers. They are smaller than the American Chinchilla, which makes them ideal for children because they can handle them easily as long as they are not too heavy-handed. The Standard Chinchilla has a calm temperament and is known for its sweet disposition.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a rabbit with a sweet disposition and one that is friendly, affectionate, and loving, this list of 10 introduces you to best-tempered rabbits that make great pets for children and seniors. Rabbits are ideal pets and great companions for people of all ages.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
- 10 Best Rabbit Breeds for Kids (With Pictures & Info)
- 6 Most Expensive Rabbit Breeds (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
