14-19 lbs
11-14"
United States
The Havaco is a hybrid of the Havanese and the Cocker Spaniel. Bred as a companion and designer dog and recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, this mix is not well known. Both parent breeds enjoy relatively high positions of popularity as breeds, but the Havanese is considered a rare breed and may account for the Havaco’s rarity as well. The Havaco is a small dog, bordering on toy-sized and is an excellent companion for apartment living as well as having a high tolerance for all weather conditions.
The Havaco is a hybrid of the Havanese and the Cocker Spaniel. The hybrid is a designer dog and makes for an excellent companion; however, not much is known on the Havaco. Owners interested in understanding to possible physical and character traits of the Havaco should review the histories of the parent breeds for insight. The Havanese is a Bichon-type that developed in Cuba. Spanish Settlers brought the small dogs to the Cuban Isles during the 15th Century where they enjoyed an isolated development. The Havanese was a popular dog of choice for Cuban aristocrats but the the Cuban Revolution forced many to flee Cuba, leaving behind their dogs. Only 11 Havanese were known outside of Cuba by the 1970s and all Havanese living outside of Cuba can trace their histories back to the original 11. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Havanese in 1996, and though popular, it remains a rare breed. The Cocker Spaniel is part of the land group of Spaniels, the other division being the water group. The Cocker Spaniel is smaller than the water Spaniel, for example the American Water Spaniel, and is known for its hunting abilities. In particular, the Cocker Spaniel hunted the woodcock , hence the cocker name. The Cocker Spaniel originated in Spain, and once in North America they continued to excel at hunting but also became a favorite in the show ring. The Cocker Spaniel has been a part of the sporting group of the American Kennel Club since 1878.
The Havaco has a compact body but is not a delicate dog. They have sturdy, strong muscles and typically do not weigh more than 20 pounds when fully grown. The head is round with an average length muzzle and a proportionate black nose. The face most resembles the Havanese with almond-shaped dark eyes, but the silky, soft ears are distinctly Cocker Spaniel with a long length falling down the head and a curly look. The Havaco’s legs are slightly shorter than the length of its body. The tail has a sickle-curve over the back as well with a large plume if it resembles the Havanese.
The Havaco is not a hypoallergenic hybrid, though the Havanese parent is considered one, so your Havaco leans toward allergy-free. This hybrid does shed moderately and requires frequent grooming and brushing to keep its medium to long length hair shiny and free of mats. This is especially true if the Havaco’s cost resembles the Cocker Spaniel parent’s coat. This mix is prone to ear infections so clean the ears with a veterinarian approved solution to remove any dirt, wax, or debris while brushing your Havaco. Avoid bathing your Havaco and stick to frequent brushing to distribute natural oils, remove dead and loose hair, and remove dirt and debris from the coat.
The Havaco is an active, friendly dog who is more sensitive to human emotion than most other dogs. They are highly affectionate with their families and have sweet dispositions. The Havaco is very active and unaware of its small size so it makes for an excellent companion to older children rather young children who may accidentally hurt the dog while playing. This mix can be fearful of noises and loud children, which can lead to behavioral issues. However, the Havaco will be fine with strangers and very friendly. A gentle, cheerful voice communicates safety for this hybrid. The Havaco is an exceptional companion for other dogs and even cats. They love to play and may give chase for a few minutes to the family cat but will settle down quickly. The Havaco is an intelligent mix and easy to train due to its eager desire to please. However, their sensitivity demands gentle training. The Havaco needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation daily to lead a healthy life.
The Havaco is a mix of a high energy and a moderate energy breed pair and needs a fair amount of daily exercise given its small size. However, the intensity of exercise is greatly reduced in the Havaco. Instead of focusing on wearing your Havaco out, engage in mentally stimulating games and exercises to satisfy them. The mental workout can include learning new tricks that work the body and mind together. This energy output will help your Havaco develop a healthy personality free of underlying behavioral disorders. If the Havaco can get all of its daily mental and physical exercise needs inside, then it is well suited for apartment living. This mix also has a high tolerance for both hot and cold weather, but a suitable indoor living arrangement makes living anywhere possible.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 11/12/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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