Joe Jonas says Demi Lovato is practically family, even though the former couple broke up in 2010. Photo / Getty Images

Joe Jonas says his ex-girlfriend Demi Lovato is like "family".

The Cake By The Ocean hitmaker insists he is still "really close" with his former flame despite their break up in 2010.

He said: "She's family. We've known Demi for so many years. We're performed with her, toured with her. She's just incredible.

"But it's not always the case [that relationships end on good terms]. Sometimes you have to know when to fold the cards. I don't think of her as an ex. We're really good friends. We've gone through so much together and we're really close now."

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old singer previously gushed about Demi, 23, revealing she is the "best version of herself" he's ever known her to be.

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He said: "She's the best version of herself I've ever known. She's healthy and that's obviously something a lot of the world knows now, but she's gotten over [the really hard part].

"I know a lot of friends who've gone through similar things and it's when you have to live with your new self for a few years - that comes with a lot of struggle. And being a pop star on top of that, that's a lot of pressure, but she's amazing at speaking truth to what she believes."

And Joe also revealed he is envious that Demi is so accepting of herself.

He shared: "I wish I could have a bit more of that. Excuse my language, but she doesn't give a f**k. She goes out there and says, 'This is who I am.' Considering what we've all come from, it's not always easy. We feel like we have to be cautious."

- Bang! Showbiz