Havanese

7-12 lbs
8-10"
Cuba
Havana Silk Dog, White Cuban, Havana Spaniel, Spanish Silk Poodle, Bichon Havanais, Bichon Habanero

If you’re lucky enough to own a Havanese dog or a Havanese puppy, you’ll already be familiar with the many fantastic qualities of this toy dog. In this intro guide, you can become a Havanese expert in minutes and learn:

  • Where the Havanese gets its name from
  • That the Havanese has a famously good sense of humor
  • That the breed is slightly more vulnerable to conditions including patellar luxation, chondrodysplasia and heart murmurs
  • While the Havanese can be stubborn, this breed is highly trainable

Havanese breed overview

So. What is a Havanese dog? This small Cuban cutie, becoming more and more popular in the US, is a lapdog of great charm and character. With an interesting history inextricable from colonization and revolution, this is a breed with a great story to tell. 

Whether you’re looking for a first-time pet or are an experienced dog owner searching for a new addition to your home, we’d thoroughly recommend the Havanese.



Are you a Havanese owner? Make sure your dog is covered for any health issues by comparing top-rated pet insurance plans in seconds.




purpose Purpose
Lapdog
history Date of Origin
1600s
ancestry Ancestry
Bichon Frise, Maltese

Havanese Health

Sketch of Havanese
Average Size
Male Havanese size stats
Height: 9-12 inches Weight: 8-13 lbs
Female Havanese size stats
Height: 8-10 inches Weight: 7-12 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Deafness
  • Eye Problems
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
  • Heart Murmur
  • Chondrodysplasia
Occasional Tests
  • OFA
  • Hip X-Rays
  • Luxating Patella
  • BAER Testing
  • Blood And Urine Analysis
  • Complete Ophthalmologic Examination

Havanese Breed History

You may know this already, but the Havanese is so-called because of the word ‘Havana’ — the name of the capital city of Cuba, where the dog originated from centuries ago. The breed is believed to be the result of Spanish colonists bringing the Bichon Tenerife to the country in the 16th century. (The Havanese can also be known as the Bichon Havanese.) 

Though there’s no official consensus,the Tenerife dog may have bred with another breed called the ‘Blanquito de la Habana’ to create the Havanese that we know and love today. Cuban refugees brought the dog to the US in the middle of the 20th century because of the 1959 Cuban Revolution, and since then it has become a firm fixture as a lovable member of the Toy group. 

By the way, you’re in good company if you own a Havanese: Ernest Hemingway and Charles Dickens also owned one (not the same one, of course).

Havanese Breed Appearance

With a long, silky coat and a rounded face with floppy ears, the Havanese is one of the cutest dogs out there. Havanese colors, like the colors of most dogs, cover a broad spectrum from white through gold to black.

A full grown Havanese will only stand about nine inches off the ground. Like a lot of small dogs, however, the Havanese is unlikely to be aware of this, and fight its corner proudly and loudly when it feels it has to. 

Appearance of Havanese
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Havanese eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Havanese nose
Black
brown Havanese nose
Brown
Coat Color Possibilities
fawn Havanese coat
Fawn
blue Havanese coat
Blue
fawn Havanese coat
Fawn
black Havanese coat
Black
brown Havanese coat
Brown
red Havanese coat
Red
cream Havanese coat
Cream
brindle Havanese coat
Brindle
sable Havanese coat
Sable
silver Havanese coat
Silver
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Havanese wavy coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Havanese Breed Maintenance

The proud bearer of a beautiful coat, the Havanese must be brushed at least twice every week to avoid the irritating and even painful matting and tangling that can plague dense and curly hair. 

On this note: do Havanese shed and are Havanese hypoallergenic? Yes, but also, yes! The breed sheds very little hair and, although no breed of dog can be classed as 100% hypoallergenic, it’s certainly more allergy-friendly than many. Fabulous news to the dog-lovers out there who don’t have a great deal of choice when it comes to choosing a suitable pup.

Exactly how much you want to groom your Havanese is up to you but you may want to employ a professional groomer some of the time. A Havanese’s hair is important, especially, of course, if you have aspirations to put the dog in any shows.

In terms of teeth-brushing, a few times a week is generally sound advice for your canine’s canines.



Havanese health risks

No dog is totally immune to health problems, unfortunately, and the Havanese is no exception. Here are a few conditions that may be slightly more likely to affect this breed:

Patellar Luxation 

Normally a congenital defect but occasionally the result of an accident, a luxating patella refers to the dislocation of a dog’s kneecap. Surgery may be able to be prevented or, more likely, delayed through a dose of glucosamine, which will strengthen the dog’s ligaments. 

More often than not, however, surgery on the knee will be required — at which point, depending on the severity of the condition, your dog should make a good recovery. The problem is painful for your dog but, in most cases, not too serious.

Deafness 

Often a congenital condition, deafness is relatively self-explanatory but certainly a sad thing for your dog to develop. The Havanese don’t have it as bad as some breeds — did you know that almost a third of all Dalmatians are deaf? — but it’s something to look out for. 

Trickier to spot than many other conditions because there are no physical symptoms, deafness in your furry friend may become apparent to you when they are ignoring instructions, snapping at you when you touch them unexpectedly, or vocalizing in an unusual way.

There isn’t much vets can do about deafness but a deaf Havanese can still be a very happy Havanese . When do you go out, however, keep your furry friend on a leash if they’re deaf.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease 

Legg-Calve-Perthes, or LCP, is a hip joint disorder that’s a common health issue in toy breeds like the Havanese. It causes stiffness and pain, and often occurs when a dog is relatively young, within the first year of its life.

In order to comprehensively take care of your Havanese — or whichever breed of dog you own — make sure you have the best possible pet insurance cover. In addition, a wellness plan can help you manage routine vet appointments.

Heart Murmur 

A heart murmur can be a concerning sign of something not quite working properly in your dog’s heart. Typically diagnosed by a vet listening to your pet’s heart through a stethoscope, it tends to imply some kind of turbulence in the flow of your dog’s blood. 

The murmur isn’t in itself a condition so a vet will need to examine the heart further in order to reach a diagnosis. Often no action is required but on other occasions it may be necessary to change your Havanese’s diet. In more serious scenarios, a vet may need to perform surgery or, if there is a tumor present, chemotherapy.

Chondrodysplasia

Havanese are vulnerable to chondrodysplasia, also known as osteochondrodysplasia. These terms refer to skeletal dwarfism, a genetic condition that slows the growth of bones and cartilage (‘chondro’ means cartilage). This can lead to deformities in a dog, causing pain and potentially arthritis later in life. 

There are various things a vet can propose if your dog suffers from something that is causing chondrodysplasia (it can be caused by a wide range of problems including kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular defects): surgery is only performed if absolutely necessary, because it is painful and expensive; medication can help with the dog’s pain; or the growth hormone progestin could be prescribed, as it has shown itself to be effective.



Feeding a Havanese — what’s the best diet?

As we’ve said, a Havanese doesn’t rapidly burn off calories through exercise like hunting dogs, so you do need to go a bit easy on the amount of food you give your furry friend in case they start having weight-related health problems. 

A Havanese adult should probably only be eating about 1.2 cups of good-quality food a day. Like most dogs, it’s good not to get into the habit of feeding your Havanese from the dinner table, and foods that are high in fat should be avoided when possible.

If you’re looking for a wealth of food advice when it comes to dogs, check out our aptly-named friends over at Dog Food Advisor. They have tons of products, information and reviews that will help you decide what and how to feed your Havanese.


Brushes for Havanese
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Dematter
Comb
Comb
Clipper
Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Havanese requires daily brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Havanese Temperament

A Havanese dog’s temperament is a wonderful thing. A playful, intelligent dog that gets on well with children and the other pets around the home, it’s very likely to be a brilliant addition to your family. You’ll notice it’s not all that interested in catching prey, which is good for you if you don’t like dealing with unsolicited presents on your doormat. 

Although the Havanese can be a bit stubborn — can’t we all — the breed is notable for its ability to be trained easily. For this reason, these dogs are often used as assistance and therapy dogs and for jobs like tracking.

The other thing people say about the Havanese is that they have an excellent sense of humor. Considered among the funniest dogs, the Havanese loves being a clown and the center of attention. For however long this dog’s in your family, you’ll be sure to share plenty of laughs.



Owning a Havanese 

When it comes to exercise, we can put the Havanese on the lower end of the scale — this isn’t a pup that will tear after rabbits or endlessly chase sticks. Like most dogs, it will enjoy a walk every day and a nice game with you, but the life of a Havanese is not all about keeping fit; it’s largely about staying cozy and warm inside.

On the subject of staying inside: while you can leave a Havanese alone in your house for a while, they don’t love being by themselves for extended periods of time. They would be most suitable, therefore, for people who know they are at home the majority of the time and may have family or neighbors to take care of the furry one when they’re not.

A typical Havanese lifespan is in the 15-year bracket so your furry friend is likely to be with you for a good while.



Havanese Activity Requirements


Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
7 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
45 minutes
activity minutes

Havanese Popularity

Popularity ranking
#24
Popular Hybrids
Cheenese
Chihuahua
Havanese
Cheenese
Crested Havanese
Chinese Crested
Havanese
Crested Havanese
Dualanese
Bolognese
Havanese
Dualanese
Ewokian
Havanese
Pomeranian
Ewokian
Cavanese
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Havanese
Cavanese

Havanese Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1.2 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.00 - $1.25
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$30.00 - $37.50
food bag monthly cost

Havanese Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of Havanese at six months
Male Havanese size stats at six months
Height: 7.5 inches Weight: 7.0 lbs
Female Havanese size stats at six months
Height: 7.5 inches Weight: 6.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of Havanese at 12 months
Male Havanese size stats at 12 months
Height: 9.5 inches Weight: 9.0 lbs
Female Havanese size stats at 12 months
Height: 9.5 inches Weight: 9.0 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of Havanese at 18 months
Male Havanese size stats at 18 months
Height: 12.5 inches Weight: 12.5 lbs
Female Havanese size stats at 18 months
Height: 12.5 inches Weight: 12.5 lbs

Top Havanese Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable Havanese breeders of 2024.
Top Havanese breeder Forever Poodles and Honor Havanese
Forever Poodles and Honor Havanese
Summerfield, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Jangle Havanese
Jangle Havanese
Lehigh Acres, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Wild Rose Havanese
Wild Rose Havanese
Lewisville, Texas
Top Havanese breeder Hola Havanese
Hola Havanese
Lecanto, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Coco Cabana Havanese
Coco Cabana Havanese
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Havacasa Havanese
Havacasa Havanese
Gilbert, Arizona
Top Havanese breeder Yuppy Puppy Havanese
Yuppy Puppy Havanese
Fort Pierce, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Key Kats Havanese
Key Kats Havanese
Altoona, Florida
Top Havanese breeder Dreamworks Havanese
Dreamworks Havanese
Sunnyside, Washington
Top Havanese breeder Lordocs Kennel
Lordocs Kennel
Punta Gorda, Florida

Havanese Owner Experiences

Disco
6 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Bike ride
Go on Vacation
Walk
Run
Look out the window
Learn a new trick
Tug-of-war
Go to Park
Play
Chase
Fetch
High Five
Shake
Dog Parks
Eating Snacks
Shopping
Dressing up
Awesome they are the best dogs ever
7 years ago
Blaze
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Beach
Go on Vacation
Walk
Run
Frisbee
Play
Chase
Fetch
High Five
Heel
Speak
Brushing
Explore the city
Dog Parks
Eating Snacks
Dressing up
Laying in the sun
Bike ride
Boat ride
Explore the woods
Look out the window
Learn a new trick
Catch treats
Play keep away
Tug-of-war
Awesome, they are the best dogs ever
7 years ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
She was sweet. It liked walking but only for a certain amount of time. SHe defintely was a home body!
6 years, 11 months ago
19 Weeks
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
The Havanese is a toy dog.[1] It is smart and can be easily trained. It is best to train this dog at a young age, because some habits will stick as they become older. However, training these dogs while they are older is still possible. Like many toy breeds, the Havanese can be difficult to housebreak. However, Havanese can be trained to use a litter box, which can greatly reduce issues with housebreaking. This breed is very smart and can be house trained faster than most toy dogs. The Havanese get very attached and are very loyal to their owners, and often attach to one person which they will closely follow. As a result, the Havanese does not do well in a household where it will be left alone all day. Although the Havanese is an active and lively dog, they are small enough that many of their exercise needs can be met in a house or yard, and therefore they do not require as much vigorous exercise as other breeds may. However, exercise is still necessary for this breed to be happy and healthy.[1]
6 years, 11 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
petting
The Havanese that I have walked have been such happy and high energy dogs. They are so loving and excited when I get there for the walk. They like to stay at a quick speed and are very friendly with other dogs and people. They do like to run if you are willing to do so and the owner is okay with it, as they have alot of energy for a smaller sized dog.
6 years, 11 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very fun and cuddly lap dog. Super cute and always was super excited to see me. Loved to go on walks and just happy to have someone to hang out and play with. Pretty good walker too. Kept a nice pace and didn't pull.
6 years, 11 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
The Havanese bread is an extremely friendly and welcoming dog. This dog had a high stamina and was able to keep up at a fast pass for over thirty minutes. This dog was intelligent. It knew multiple commands. This dog also seeks lots of attention.
6 years, 11 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Eating Snacks
Havanese are wonderful and so obedient! I absolutely have adored all of the Havanese I have walked. In general they have been friendly with other dogs, sweet to me, and well behaved. They have all "sat" on command and known other tricks as well. Their coat is long and requires grooming but is hypoallergenic!
6 years, 11 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Explore the city
Walk
Eating Snacks
Play
He was the most friendliest, most sweetest dog ever! He did not cause any trouble during his boarding. On the contrary, he was super cuddly and he always listened to anything that was told to him; like “sit, don’t!, or yes and no.” He loved to go on walks and he never had any accidents occur in my home. He did super well during car drives. I sat in the backseat with him and laid out a blanket for him to lay on, but he preferred to snuggle against my arms instead. Super cute! He ate at least twice a day and did of course enjoy his occasional snacks. He did not really stare when I was eating my own food, which is a bonus. Overall, one of the most wonderful pups I have boarded.
6 years, 11 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
The one I walked was a havanese mix. Oh my goodness his energy was incredible. He was only 2 so as you can imagine everything excited him! It was so cute, when we were on the walk sometimes he would jump and walk to on two legs trying to run, so we would do wind sprints to help get some of his energy out. He was also a little jumper when putting on his leash so I had to get down and pet him to distract him. What a sweet dog though, so happy, so excited about life, loved to jump and play. What a great dog whose energy is contagious. He also tried to eat stuff along the way, so had to keep an eye out. Lovely dog!
6 years, 11 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Cuddling
Playing
The dogs I've walked have all been very affectionate. They love attention. They would rather cuddle than walk outside for a long time.
6 years, 11 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Go to Park
sit on lap
Groom
They are definitely lap dogs. The ones I have experience with are very sweet but do have lots of energy and love jumping around. They get very excited to be outside and can sometimes be loud and bark a lot. They are mostly sweet and love their owners.
6 years, 11 months ago
6 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chasing, running, sniffing
He was a bit stubborn and timid. He barked white a bit when we first met, but once outside was excited to explore. Really easy to wall, just wanted to sniff around.
6 years, 11 months ago
10 Months
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play
Tug-of-war
Walk
sniff
Every Havanese I’ve ever met has been so friendly and caring! This 10 month old pupper was no exception. She loved to play! We practically spent 10 minutes in the apartment playing before heading out on the walk. Throughout the walk she loved to sniff all the smells of the city, and was so excited to be outside she ran to the next spot. Havanese usually have lots of energy, but also like to relax and cuddle on the couch. I believe Havanese are a great family breed because of this; they are very loyal to family, love to play with kids, and will relax with mom and dad on the couch. The Havanese are a very fun breed, and with little upkeep they are an amazing addition to any family!
6 years, 11 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have walked this breed on multiple occasions. These dogs are always a happy go luck dog, with a great attitude. They are small and have a lot of hair. If well-groomed the hair is not an issue, but if not it can cause messy bowel movements. Always try to have some wipes when I walk this breed, just in case. They love to walk and are very submissive to your pace and route. They are curious and all the dogs I have walked have been male, so they do love to mark as you go. Even when marking their desire to be with you and their size make it so easy to redirect them that even the marking does not take away from the walk. They are a great dog to walk and are easy to train. Ask the owner if they have been trained to be on one side or the other. I have many that will only walk on the left, and the owners state they trained the dog themselves to do this. Easy walker.
6 years, 11 months ago
Princess
3 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Park
Walk
Yoga
Play
Walks
Walks.
Going on drives
Playing in the snow
Shes good and loves to be by my side
6 years, 10 months ago
Los Sombra's L'il Candy Kisses aka Lola
8 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Lola is an absolute delight ! She has won the hearts of diehard big dog owners with her love for adventures. She's alone all day while I'm at work and does just fine. She has 2 cats that she's best friends with, and they play together with great enthusiasm... total hooligans ! I cannot say enough good things about the breed and highly recommend the breed to anyone
6 years, 9 months ago
Gizmo
6 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Therapy Training
Tug-of-war
She is a very sweet girl. Loves everyone and our cats. By our side, always. Sad thing is at 4 years she became sick. Ends up she developed an autoimune problem. Had encephilitis and menengitis. Had to be on a chemo drug and prendisone for 6 months. She is in remission now at 2 years. But, the prendisone caused Diabeties. Now she gets 2 shots a day. And then, diabetis caused cateracts and as of 3 weeks ago she is totally blind. She is going for eye tests to see if her retnias are not the problem. If not, she will get cateract surgery. And before ALL of this her knees went bad and teeth needed pulled. I never thought a dog so young, could have so many problems. So at 12,000 in Vet bills we are facing another 3,0000 if her eyes get done. Never in my life would I think this could happen to one dog. Would I ever get this breed of dog again ? I think NOT.
6 years, 9 months ago
Benji
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Absolutely the best dog ever. Extremely intelligent, eager to please. Has a nose that's amazing. He sniffs out his treats and we play hide and seek with them. He never fails to find them. Loves taking me for our daily walk. He walks at a quick pace and regularly looks back for me telling me to come on... he's brought such joy to our household. Gets very vocal when he wants to go out to potty.
6 years, 8 months ago
Bentley
5 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing fetch
taking walks
Watching movies
Napping
Bentley makes my days so much better. He is a great listener and he loves people. He rarely ever shows signs of aggression and he loves to cuddle. One thing these websites won't tell you is that these dogs have a big appetite. If you keep feeding, they keep eating so its easy for them to get overweight.this breed of dog is perfect
6 years, 8 months ago
Bessie Ann
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She love to run and chase the birds
6 years, 7 months ago
Bronte
2 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hiking
Walk
Tricks
This is my second havanese. They are super friendly and just want to be with you all the time. They both love to show off their tricks whether it be jumping through a hula hoop, rolling over or climbing on balance beams. They need lots of attention when it comes to grooming but it's well worth it for the love and joy this little companion will bring.
6 years, 7 months ago
Charlie
4 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fun, loving, very smart
6 years, 6 months ago
Bo
18 Weeks
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Loving, well behaved, easy to train, extremely playful, eager to please, highly social with humans and dogs. Best dog I’ve ever owned.
6 years, 5 months ago
Chica
13 Weeks
1 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I like to sit and talk to her
6 years, 5 months ago
Vivianna' Havanna Sophia Stoltz
21 Months
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Shopping
Swim
Vivianna' is my second Havanese. Haylie Havanna was my first Havanese. Haylie recently passed away at the tender age of (19) nineteen years old. She was the oldest that we know of in her breed. I enjoyed the breed very much. There was not a second of the day that Haylie was not with me. She had a wonderful, happy, healthy life and is missed greatly. Vivianna' is a very very spoiled princess we enjoy shopping, yachting, working out or going to NFL football games together. She is always in my purse and she loves it and I love it even more...
6 years, 4 months ago
Sir Jerome Garcia aka Jerry
5 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We love our Havs. they are great companions and go everywhere with us,usually without a leash. They are easily trained and understand their relative level of safety. Highly recommend them as a family member.
6 years, 4 months ago
Hailey
2 Years
3 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Swim
Walk
Dressing up
Go to Beach
Hailey is a very lovable dog, she can be easily trained. She knows how to sit, stay, roll over, and play dead (still learning more tricks at her age). She loves walk time, she gets super excited when you ask he "do you wanna walk?". She is super clingy, she hates being left alone, she barks a lot on other dogs. But overall she is super energetic and happy dog.
6 years, 3 months ago
Finlay Grace
2 Years
2 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I enjoy walking her, and playing with her
Bath time
Brushing
Drying her off
racing her
Cuddling
Finlay is amazing. She’s from a puppy farm in New Jersey. Up until June 2018, when we got her, she’d only ever been in a crate. So we’re having some trouble with potty training. But, she’s super sweet. She has a lot of anxiety, probably from past abuse, but I have anxiety, too. Whenever I’m panicking she’s always right by my side, trying to protect me from anyone reaching out to me. I’m gradually teaching her a few tricks and I’m gradually teaching her how to cuddle. She doesn’t bark much, unless she hears the door opening or ringing or knocking. She does this funny thing where she’ll move her back legs. If you scratch her on the left of her butt/back area, she will move her back legs and only her back legs to the left. And same with the right. She’s just all around amazing, though she has her moments. But if I’m in bed, she won’t get out of bed voluntarily. She can be stubborn, but it’s okay, because so can I. She was meant to help me with my anxiety and depression and I’d say she’s doing a great job. When I got her, I actually started crying, holding her. We had to drive way out of town to pick her up from my mom’s friend, and honestly until she was in her crate in the backseat with me alone, it really didn’t register in my mind that it was happening. My last dog, had serious medical issues that my family just couldn’t afford. He had to be put down. My dad hates pets and my mom didn’t want to put another dog through that again. But then my mom and dad separated, and she surprised me asking me about her because of some tough stuff I was going through. I didn’t believe it could be true, but the night I got her I cried and cried. As a 16 year old, I will admit it can be frustrating when you’re mad, to have a dog following your every footstep. Like they’re you’re Shadow. But, it also is kind of cheerful because I know she’s always with me and she depends on me. She may also be attached to my mom, but she’s mainly my responsibility and she seems to know that. If I’m doing chores like cleaning out the litter boxes, she’ll be sitting on a chair in the corner watching me. It’s amazing knowing Finlay may be more terrified of something, yet she’ll still protect me because I’m scared and she loves me.
6 years ago
Scout
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
playing in the yard
Playing in the snow
Scout started out as a friendly, playful puppy. She seems to have developed anxiety issues and becomes very agitated around other dogs and people. Eventually she calms down. She also likes to eat her poop which has been a real problem. We also have a Malshi named Blue. They are good friends and provide each other playful chase games etc. Scout doesn’t seem to fit the description of most Havenese dogs. We are a bit disappointed but love her just the same.
6 years ago
odie
1 Year
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tug-of-war
Zoomies
Walk
Run
best dog ever <3 he is super friendly but he also guards the house perfect dog for first time owners
5 years, 7 months ago
Bentley
13 Years
1 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
chasing
talking
Playing with toys
Eating Snacks
Laying in the sun
Bentley is a lovable, obedient companion who loves to cuddle on the sofa and in corner spaces. Bentley was easy to housebreak and taught himself to ”curb.” He is very attached to me, but understands that when I go out for any amount of time, I will be returning. He loves to snack. He’s a barker and flexes his muscle at all dogs except his own breed. Bentley doesn't mind being groomed, but very anxious at the vet’s. He’s my best friend and he knows it.
5 years, 7 months ago
SnoopyDoog
8 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
We adopted SnoopDogg after his Mom died unexpectedly last summer. he was friendly at first but a still upset over her, and leaving his home of the last 2-3 years. he quickly adapted to a routine of daily walks and is very good about communicating with me when he needs to go out, when he's hungry or wants some affection. he regularly puts his paw up to my face and leans his head against my chest. Love the SnoopDogg.
5 years, 1 month ago
Bee
7 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She likes to lay down on the sofa back like a cat.
4 years, 11 months ago
Milla
9 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Binge-watching
Just a snugg able dog. Friendly, but lazy
4 years, 6 months ago
Billy Charlton
5 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hide & Seek
Billy is the sweetest dog that has ever walked the face of this planet! No joke! He knows when you are stressing & he isn’t “too much” during those times, & if you end up with a cut or scratch from doing yard work or whatever the case may be, you better believe that Billy will sniff out your “ouwie” & lick it clean. He is literally the reason my mother is alive. Without him in this family, she would be empty & heartbroken. Billy is heaven sent & although I am a HUGE HUGE HUGEEEEE animal lover, I will admit, Billy is definitely the best thing that my life has ever been blessed with! (No disrespect to my roommate Hank, who is the best cat in the entire world! Lol!)... I strongly recommend a Havanese for anybody that wants a loyal, loving dog that will be considered part of the family within weeks of getting him or her. Just be prepared to have a puppy/dog that you are going to want to bring along with you everywhere you go! Not because you want to, but because you have to. Separation anxiety is VERY COMMON in this breed & saying goodbye go that face is almost impossible! So just plan on taking your Havanese with you everywhere you go for it’s entire life! 🐾
4 years, 6 months ago
Buddy
9 Months
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Going to the park
Playing with the Kids
Running around
Fetch
Best dog ever! Almost no health problems, really good around other pets, love playing with kids, beautiful fur, and energetic but not toooo energetic. Havanese are the best dog breed.
4 years, 6 months ago
Cocoa
6 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Constantly energetic and stays by my side all day. She loves to be outside when I do my chores and comes in the house soon as I go back in the house.
4 years, 5 months ago
Ha’vana
14 Months
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Fetching toys
Mine is shy but has a burst of Energy
4 years, 5 months ago
Peanut
3 Months
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Just got him today so I can’t really say anything about it but I’m enjoying having him in the family already
4 years, 4 months ago
Bella Paz Oh! Sole Amore Mia
10 Years
3 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Bella is the best companion in the world! She is affectionate, lively, sweet, intelligent, alert. She is a good watch dog. This is my second Havanese and will not be my last. This breed and I are perfect for one another.
4 years, 3 months ago
Harley
2 Years
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing
Wonderful and very smart and jealous and very protective She taught herself a sign language because we are a Deaf family and communicates in sign language. She taps me telling me she wants to sit on my lap, or want to eat, etc..She’s very lovable and affectionate also kisses a lot! Only problem my older son whenever he sees Harly she growls and barks wanting to bite my son but we taught her not to bite because he’s a family too! If one of us goes out or both when we come home she becomes very hyper running back and forth also stands up to get us to pick her up with both legs up high. She still becomes overexcitable on us. It takes her few mins to finally calm down! Oh she always protected me every time I go to the bathroom and sits down like a watch dog! I think she can sense me I have many health problem. Oh when my husband and I kiss each other she runs to tap us to pick her up or if we lay down she runs between us to break up our kiss and she gets in the middle of us and started licking both of us! Wow, she’s smart!! She barks for us if the phone is ringing to let us know! Wow, she could be trained as a hearing ear dog!!!
4 years, 2 months ago
Ernie
2 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing ball with him and he is a mama's boy. he
first time owner. he is my PTSD dog. he helps me with my anxiety and depression.
4 years, 2 months ago
Sophie
7 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
not much
love her but she smells bad a lot
4 years ago
Lucy
5 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She has been a lively little girl from day one! Very friendly with other adults - shy around new dogs, but overall playful with them. As a puppy, she is very very attached to us. We are hoping she will grow out of this. That said, she loves attention! She puts up with the grooming while biting on a treat. She loves water and sniffing everything in sight. This type of dog would be great with kids since they need to exert a lot of energy.
4 years, 1 month ago
Buddy
4 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We fell in love with Buddy immediately as soon as we saw him. The adoption agency did adopt him out at first but them was returned due the other dogs not willing to accept him. We were then called and went to see him, and that was it. He now with his for ever family.
4 years ago
Penny
2 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
snuggling
Throwing the ball
Our dog Penny has been an amazing addition to our family. She is sweet and has a big heart. Their activity level will match yours. When we want to play or walk she will be energetic. When we want to relax and rest, she will sit on someone's lap. We have two cats who she is friendly with and likes to play with.
4 years ago
Betty
2 Years
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Betty is my Psychiatric Service Dog and is in process of going with me to work. She travels with me and shops with me. She is a great comfort to anyone who is willing to invite her onto their lap. I'm a stage 4 cancer patient and I can't imagine going through this without her.
4 years ago
remy
3 Years
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dog Parks
Walk
Hiking
Playing in the snow
i love my havanese. he’s so funny, cuddly, and playful, but he does have his downsides. we bought remy a few years ago as the pick of his litter. he was fairly easy to potty train, especially for a little dog, and even uses a potty bell to let us know he needs to go to the bathroom (which he often abuses when he sees a squirrel outside 🙈). he’s also sooo smart, and highly trainable - he’s learned almost 20 tricks by now. as so he’s very eager to please, and nothing in the world makes me happier than seeing his little tail wag when i praise him. he’s also very affectionate, but to strangers he’s quite wary. he prefers women and it takes him a long time to trust most men. he does, however, love children of all genders. remys also a bit dog-aggressive to male dogs and some dogs larger than him. and yes, we did socialize him - we even took him to a puppy class and many dog events. he’s just very shy. he does live with one other dog, our 11 year old shih-poo gertrude, who he loves to play with. health-wise, remys decent. he did just recover from a stomach sickness but that obviously doesn’t happen often. he has a luxating patella and his teeth are permanently damaged from a condition he got as a puppy (he’s going in to the vet for a dental soon). as for grooming, havanese’s coat require more than average care, especially if you grow it long. we brush him almost every other day to prevent matting, and he goes to the groom twice a month, but it’s worth it for the soft, silky smooth fur. this paragraph sounded very negative, but i do highly recommend the havanese for anyone looking for a medium-energy family dog!
4 years ago
Elliot
9 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Got Elliot from a shelter, I drove 2 hours to see him after I saw him on the shelters web site, after I got there I asked about Elliot, "sorry he can no loner be had" I asked why and he said he bite and snapped at one of the staff. I told them I just drove 2 hours to see him, after a talk with the guy he let me see him, he took right to me, they said he was mine, he has been in the shelter for a year and in and out of foster homes and no one could control him. I've had him for 2 years and we get along great. knows my ways of doing things around the house and VERY smart. for a 9 year old he is just right for me. he's great at letting me know when he needs to go out. Love him, he took to my sisters and brother like he knew them for years, after I was told to keep him in another room should you have guest. love him to the point he comes with me very where I go when I have my days off. H loves car rides so I built him a backseat bench he can relax and run from side to side looking out the windows. Great dog. happy to come home to after a day at work, wagging his tail and gives me his dog hug around my leg and puts his head on my leg.
3 years, 11 months ago
Olie
4 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tag of war
Fetch
Cuddling
Walk
My puppy is my life! He is so full of energy and is very eager to learn and please. He is super smart and attentive. He is also super patient with me when I have to work and patiently waits for me to come home.
3 years, 11 months ago
Stella
20 Weeks
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running , fetching
Happy, friendly, loves to play, sleeps all night in her crate.I dont know how to cut her hair! Crazy hair.
3 years, 8 months ago
Cappuccino
5 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Run
Hike
Swim
Hunt
Amazing, they say havaneses should not walk to much but he loves to walk and run all day.
3 years, 8 months ago
Louie
22 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is 15 inches tall and weighs 21 pounds. The groomer is convinced that he is no pure bred Havanese.
3 years, 7 months ago
Millie
1 Year
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Millie has been a life changer for me. Legit the best dog I’ve ever had in my life, if you’re thinking about getting one, DO IT!
3 years, 6 months ago
Oreo
12 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He was lovable funny even though he was little he was a great watchdog he told us when anyone was close to the house he wasn’t Yapi he only barked when he needed to. I think he was the best for senior citizens cuddly just enough entertainment and happy to be with you whatever you were doing. Overall he was a healthy dog until his final year. He never gave the veterinarian any trouble he never gave the groomer any trouble he was always well behaved he took his shots like a champion. We are taking a little bit of a break his passing was very rough on us but we will be getting another Havanese hopefully someday soon for us the best breed. Just remember that working with a good veterinarian treating your dog with respect and love he is your family and you should treat him as such.
2 years, 11 months ago
Carmen Miranda
8 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
My Havanese is 11 lbs, and she is the smallest of her litter. I think your sizing is incorrect. I also know they are hypoallergenic. They don’t shed. And, I feed them not 1 1/2 cups a day in dog food! 1/4 c in the morning, and at night. And even then, I have to watch Carmen’s weight. That’s 3 wrong facts you’ve posted here.
2 years, 8 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

Is a Havanese a good first dog? I’ve had many many cats and I am a good and patient pet mom. Are Havanese good with cats and if you want a cat+dog household is it best to get and train a dog first and get cats second or vice versa? Since cats are more territorial, I would imagine getting the dog first would be preferable but I’d like to know from a dog person perspective. Thank you. Amy

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

Suffers terribly from separation anxiety.

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

My sister's 5 mth old havenese puppy has been teething for about a month and is picky about his food not eating. We've tried wetting it, adding toppers, changing food to a different kind, new different bowls, food in the bowl, on a plate, on the floor, out of our hands, off a spoon, he hesitantly takes very little. He has some treats to turning his nose up at them now. Is it the bowls? The food?. his teething?.. he not feeling well? his behavior is fine.. he is sociable and playful, he drinks, he has regular bowel movements. What is going on , what can she do to get him to eat?

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

Is there a small-med dog breed that is happy and friendly like a Havanese but not as active and lower maintenance?

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

How many times a day should I feed my havanese puppy

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - My pet
Question

What is your cheapest dog?

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

My vet says my Havanese has an inner ear infection. Has taking antibiotics and pain meds but let’s out a big holler if you touch something around his nose and his eye keeps running. I am beginning to think he has an abscess backupper tooth which the vet never looked in his mouth. He is having a hard time eating his treats that cleans his teeth. He leans his head toward the right and I feel so sorry for him. This has been going for at lease two months. He will soon be 11 years old Aug 1 some times he just starts shaking. He is the sweetest dog ever and I want to find out what is wrong with

Answer
Hello, this could be a dental issue. If you look in the side of his mouth you would be able to tell if there is an infected tooth. If there is your vet would need to pull this tooth. Also if her ear infection is very bad, it can seem like there is a pain in her mouth as the ear and mouth are very close together.
3 years, 5 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

House training; is it difficult with Havanese?

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

I’ve heard Havanese puppies are difficult to house train. Is that true?

Answer
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd