You’re scrolling through Instagram and suddenly—bam!—you see it. That tiny fluffball with long, droopy ears, twitchy nose, and those big eyes looking straight into your soul. Yep, you’ve just met a lop eared bunny.
Now you’re thinking… “Should I get one?”
Let’s slow down the scroll and have a real heart-to-heart about these adorable, floppy-eared companions. Because trust me, owning a lop eared bunny isn’t just about cuddles and cuteness—it’s about commitment.
Let’s dive in, friend. Bunny talk starts now.
A lop eared bunny is a breed of domestic rabbit known for its long, floppy ears that hang down instead of standing up straight. These bunnies didn’t just wake up this way—selective breeding gave them their signature charm.
But those soft ears? They’re not just for show. They also come with some extra care needs we’ll get into shortly.
There’s more than one kind of floppy eared bunny out there! Here are some of the most common and beloved:
Tiny but mighty, Holland lop bunnies are one of the smallest lop breeds. Friendly, playful, and ridiculously photogenic.
Bigger in size (and appetite), the French lop is calm, gentle, and loves a good floor nap.
Not quite mini, but not massive either. Mini lops are full of personality and energy.
The OG of all lop eared rabbit breeds, English lops have impressively long ears—sometimes longer than their bodies!
Each of these bunny lop breeds has its own vibe, so choosing one really depends on your lifestyle and how much space you have.
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Alright, let’s talk perks. Why are people obsessed with these floppy-eared floofs?
If you’re looking for a pet that’s mellow, adorable, and won’t wreck your sleep schedule, a lop eared bunny might be your match.
It’s not all floppy ears and chill vibes. Owning a lop rabbit takes real effort. Here’s what you need to be prepared for:
Because of those downward-hanging ears, lop eared bunnies are prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning and checking for wax buildup or irritation is a must.
Short-haired or long-haired, they shed. Brush regularly to avoid matting and keep their coats silky smooth.
Despite their size, they need room to roam. Bunnies are active and need exercise every day—no exceptions.
Hay should make up 80% of their diet. Add in fresh greens, pellets, and limited treats for balance.
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Bringing home a lop eared bunny means making your house bunny-friendly. Here’s your basic setup checklist:
Think of it as bunny-proofing—like baby-proofing, but with more hops.
Good news! Many lop eared rabbits can coexist peacefully with cats and even some dogs—if introduced slowly. Always supervise initial meetings and never force interactions.
Also, some bunnies do well with a bonded bunny partner. Double the ears, double the love.
Even the healthiest lop rabbit can run into issues if you’re not careful. Keep an eye out for:
If anything feels “off,” call your exotic vet. And yes—you do need a rabbit-savvy vet. Not all vets specialize in small mammals.
Whether you’re looking for Holland lop bunnies or another breed, always consider adopting first. Rescue groups and shelters often have lop breeds waiting for loving homes.
Avoid backyard breeders or pet stores where rabbits are poorly bred or handled. Your best bet? A reputable rabbit rescue or ARBA-registered breeder.
Here’s the deal: if you’re ready to commit to daily care, proper diet, gentle handling, and lots of bunny-proofing, a lop eared bunny can be one of the most rewarding pets you’ll ever have.
They’re sweet, silly, and full of personality. But they’re also sensitive little creatures that need your time, attention, and love.
So if you’re nodding along thinking “Yep, I can do that,”—go for it. Your perfect floppy-eared friend might be just a hop away.
The term refers to their floppy ears that hang down instead of standing upright.
Yes, if supervised. They’re gentle but delicate—young kids should be taught how to handle them properly.
Generally, yes. All need regular ear checks due to their closed-ear design, which can trap moisture and bacteria.
Indoor living is safer. Outdoor environments increase risk of predators, heat stroke, and parasites.
With proper care, most live between 7–10 years, sometimes longer!