As any rabbit owner will tell you, bunnies are just as cuddly, playful, and smart as your average dog or cat. However, they are more high-maintenance and require consistent, daily care. In addition, different breeds come with different physical characteristics, personality traits, and needs.

For instance, some rabbit breeds love to cuddle, while some tend to hop away when you try to handle them. Potential owners should consider each breed carefully to ensure a good match. In case you’re unsure which are the most affectionate rabbit breeds out there, we’ve rounded up some of the sweetest, friendliest rabbits around to help you make your decision.

1. Lionhead Rabbit

Best known for the “wooly mane” which earned them the name, Lionhead rabbits are also known as gentle, sweet, and friendly bunnies. They are smart and love to play and socialize, and can be a great companion for kids and adults alike. A Lionhead rabbit, when properly socialized and treated with care, will develop a strong bond with their owner. These rabbits are classified as a dwarf breed and weigh 2.5 to 3.5 pounds on average. Easy to care for, the Lionhead rabbit also makes a good pet for beginners.

2. English Lop Rabbit

A breed with a long tradition and many fans all over the world, the English Lop is a calm, easy-going rabbit that will love spending time with you. These bunnies have big, floppy ears that make them look adorable, and their friendly and laid-back personality only makes them only more appealing as pets. English Lop bunnies are often called the “dogs of the rabbit world” and are an excellent choice if you want a pet that’s curious, loving, and playful. Medium-sized, these rabbits usually weigh 9 to 10.5 lb.

3. Polish Rabbit

The Polish rabbit is one of those breeds that loves attention and doesn’t hesitate to show their affection for those closest to them. It doesn’t surprise, then, that these bunnies often top the chart of the most affectionate rabbit pets! Friendly and calm, when socialized on time, they can even make great companions for kids. They won’t object to being picked up and snuggled, but as they are miniature rabbits that weigh 3 to 5 pounds on average, you should make sure your child is instructed on how to handle them properly.

4. Holland Lop Rabbit

Another floppy-eared sweetie, the Holland Lop is a tender, playful bunny that will love to sit on your lap after some quality playtime and hopping around the house. Considered a dwarf breed, these rabbits are quite petite and weigh 2 to 4 pounds on average, so you will have to be gentle when handling them. Even though small, these rabbits are energetic and love to play, so count on having a generously sized enclosure where they can freely and safely explore and satisfy their curiosity.

5. Mini Rex Rabbit

Easily recognized for their luxurious, velvety coat, Mini Rex rabbits are a delight to pet – and luckily, as they are a very sweet-natured and cuddly breed, they’ll quite enjoy your snuggle sessions, too. Quiet, calm, and docile, a Mini Rex can be a good choice for first-time owners as well, as they are not too demanding as pets. A small breed of rabbits, they will weigh between 3 and 4.5 pounds when fully mature.