Before you go and get a Havanese dog, you really need to know the Havanese pros and cons.
If you’re considering adding a new canine friend to your family, the Havanese dog breed is a great option to consider.
Known for their affectionate and friendly nature, these dogs are a popular choice for families, couples, and individuals alike.
However, like any breed, Havanese dogs come with their own set of pros and cons to consider.
One of the biggest pros of owning a Havanese is their love for people. These dogs are highly people-oriented and love to be around their owners.
They enjoy snuggling up on laps, following their owners around the house, and spending time with their human companions.
If you’re someone who enjoys having a dog around the home that still likes to snuggle, then the Havanese is a perfect option to consider.
On the other hand, one of the cons of owning a Havanese is their tendency to become overly dependent on their owners.
These dogs don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time without companionship.
If you’re someone who works long hours or travels frequently, a Havanese may not be the best choice for you.
However, with proper training and socialization, this tendency can be minimized.
Table of Contents
Breed Origins and History
If you’re considering owning a Havanese, it’s important to understand their history and where they come from.
In this section, we’ll take a look at the Cuban roots of the Havanese, their Bichon family lineage, and their recognition by the American Kennel Club.
Cuban Roots
As the name suggests, the Havanese breed originated in Cuba. They were brought over to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 1500s and quickly became popular among Cuban nobility.
They were often given as gifts to visiting dignitaries, and their popularity continued to grow. By the 1800s, they were a beloved breed among the Cuban people.
Bichon Family Lineage
The Havanese is part of the Bichon family of dogs, which includes the Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Coton de Tulear, and Maltese.
The Bichon family is known for their small size, fluffy coats, and friendly personalities.
The Havanese is no exception, and they are known for their playful and affectionate nature.
AKC Recognition
The Havanese was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1996. Since then, they have become a popular breed among dog owners in the United States.
The AKC describes the Havanese as “a small, sturdy dog of immense charm” with a “joyful temperament.” They are known for their intelligence, trainability, and adaptability.
In summary, the Havanese is a breed with a rich history and a friendly personality. They have roots in Cuba and are part of the Bichon family of dogs.
Havanese Characteristics
Havanese are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
In this section, we will explore some of the key characteristics of the Havanese breed, including their physical traits, temperament, and intelligence.
Physical Traits
Havanese are small dogs, typically weighing between 7 and 13 pounds.
They have a long, silky coat that can come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, black, and brown.
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
In addition to their unique coat, Havanese have a distinctive face with large, expressive eyes and floppy ears.
They have a compact, sturdy build and a tail that curls over their back.
Temperament
One of the most notable characteristics of the Havanese breed is their friendly and sociable nature.
They are known for being affectionate and loyal to their owners, and they often get along well with children and other pets.
Havanese are also known for being intelligent and easy to train. While they can be stubborn at times, they are generally obedient and eager to please their owners.
Intelligence and Training
Havanese are a bright breed and are generally easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.
However, it is important to note that Havanese can be sensitive to harsh training methods or punishment.
They respond best to gentle, patient training and positive reinforcement.
Overall, the Havanese breed is known for their friendly and affectionate nature, intelligence, and easy-to-train temperament.
If you are looking for a small dog that will be a loyal companion and a joy to be around, the Havanese may be the perfect breed for you.
Pros of Owning a Havanese
If you’re looking for a friendly, cheerful, and affectionate companion dog, the Havanese breed might be the perfect fit for you.
Here are some of the pros of owning a Havanese.
Companionship and Sociability
Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are always excited to see you and will shower you with love and affection.
They thrive on human companionship and make great lap dogs. They are also very sociable with other dogs and pets and enjoy playing and interacting with them.
Suitability for Families
Havanese dogs are great family dogs and are good with children. They are gentle and patient with kids, making them great playmates.
They are also hypoallergenic, which means they don’t shed much and are less likely to cause allergic reactions in people with allergies.
Grooming and Shedding
Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best.
However, they are low-shedding dogs, which means they don’t leave a lot of hair around the house. With proper grooming, their coat is soft, shiny, and beautiful.
In summary, Havanese dogs make great companions due to their friendly and affectionate nature.
They are great family dogs and are suitable for households with children. Additionally, they are hypoallergenic and low-shedding, making them ideal for people with allergies.
Cons of Owning a Havanese
If you’re considering owning a Havanese, it’s important to know that there are some cons to owning this breed.
While they are generally friendly and affectionate, there are some health and care considerations, behavioral challenges, and exercise and space needs that you should be aware of.
Health and Care Considerations
Havanese dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the health issues that Havanese dogs may be prone to include:
- Dental problems: Havanese dogs have small mouths and crowded teeth, which can lead to dental problems if their teeth are not properly cared for.
- Eye problems: Havanese dogs may be prone to eye problems such as cataracts and dry eye.
- Skin allergies: Havanese dogs may be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching and discomfort.
In addition to these health issues, Havanese dogs require regular grooming to keep their long, silky coats looking their best.
This can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if you choose to take your dog to a professional groomer.
Behavioral Challenges
While Havanese dogs are generally friendly and affectionate, they can be prone to separation anxiety and excessive barking.
This can be a problem if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors.
Havanese dogs may also be prone to destructive behavior if they are left alone for long periods of time.
Exercise and Space Needs
Havanese dogs are small, but they still require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include a daily walk or playtime in a fenced yard.
If you live in a small apartment or don’t have access to a yard, you may need to take your Havanese to a dog park or other outdoor space to get the exercise they need.
It’s also important to note that Havanese dogs can be prone to weight gain if they don’t get enough exercise or if they are overfed.
You’ll need to monitor your dog’s diet and exercise to ensure that they stay at a healthy weight.
Overall, while Havanese dogs are generally friendly and easy to care for, there are some cons to owning this breed that you should be aware of.
By understanding these challenges and taking steps to address them, you can ensure that your Havanese is happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization are important aspects of owning a Havanese. With proper training and socialization, your Havanese can develop into a well-behaved and friendly companion.
Obedience Training
Havanese are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Use treats, praise, and playtime to motivate your Havanese during obedience training.
Start with basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” As your Havanese learns these commands, you can gradually introduce more advanced commands.
Consistency is key to successful obedience training.
Socialization with People and Pets
Socialization is important for Havanese to build a confident, outgoing temperament. Introduce your Havanese to different people, including children, and other pets.
You can do this by taking your Havanese on walks or to the dog park. Encourage positive interactions with other dogs and people.
Socializing your Havanese when they are young can help prevent excessive caution or timidity.
Addressing Separation Anxiety
Havanese are known to develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
To prevent separation anxiety, you should gradually get your Havanese used to being alone. Start with short periods of time and gradually increase the time.
Provide your Havanese with toys and treats to keep them occupied while you are away.
If your Havanese does develop separation anxiety, consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to address the issue.
In summary, obedience training and socialization are important for your Havanese to develop into a friendly and well-behaved companion.
Use positive reinforcement methods during training and socialization. Gradually get your Havanese used to being alone to prevent separation anxiety.
Grooming and Care
Taking care of your Havanese is essential to ensuring that they live a long and healthy life. Grooming and care are two areas that require your attention.
Here are some tips to help you keep your Havanese healthy and happy.
Daily Grooming Routine
Your Havanese’s coat is an essential part of their appearance and requires daily grooming.
Brushing your Havanese’s coat daily will help keep it looking its best and prevent matting and tangling.
You can use a slicker brush or a pin brush to brush your Havanese’s coat.
To prevent matting and tangling, start by brushing the coat in sections. Spray the area you are working on with a fine mist sprayer full of water.
If the coat is tangled, add one teaspoon of conditioner to the water. Brush through the coat, starting at the skin and working your way out to the tips.
Healthcare and Vet Visits
Regular vet visits are essential to your Havanese’s health. Your vet can help you identify any health issues your Havanese may have and provide you with recommendations for their care.
You should take your Havanese to the vet at least once a year for a check-up.
Havanese are prone to allergies and skin issues, so it’s essential to keep an eye on their skin and coat.
If you notice any changes in their skin or coat, contact your vet immediately.
Diet and Nutrition
Feeding your Havanese a healthy and balanced diet is essential to their overall health.
You should feed your Havanese a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and size. You can also supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Havanese are prone to obesity, so it’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust their diet as needed.
You should also provide your Havanese with plenty of fresh water to drink.
By following these grooming and care tips, you can help ensure that your Havanese lives a long and healthy life.
Adoption and Breeding
If you’re considering adding a Havanese to your family, you have a few options when it comes to adoption and breeding. Here are some things to consider:
Choosing a Breeder
If you decide to go with a breeder, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable one.
Look for a breeder who is a member of the American Kennel Club and follows their breeding standards.
Ask for references and visit the breeder in person to see the living conditions of the puppies and their parents.
A good breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have and provide you with information about the breed.
Rescue and Adoption Options
Adopting a Havanese from a rescue or shelter is another option. There are many Havanese rescues across the country that take in dogs who have been surrendered by their owners or found as strays.
Adopting a rescue dog can be a great way to give a dog a second chance at a happy life.
When adopting from a rescue or shelter, it’s important to ask about the dog’s history and any behavioral issues they may have.
Some rescue dogs may have been mistreated or neglected, so they may require extra patience and training.
However, many rescue dogs are already house-trained and well-behaved, making them a great choice for families.
Living with a Havanese
If you are considering bringing a Havanese into your home, it is important to understand what it will be like living with one. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Apartment and House Dwelling
Havanese dogs are adaptable to both apartment and house living. They are small dogs that do not require a lot of space, making them a great option for those who live in smaller homes.
However, they do require daily exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
Interaction with Children and Other Pets
Havanese dogs are known for being playful and friendly, making them great companions for children.
They are also sociable dogs and can get along well with other pets if introduced properly.
However, it is important to supervise interactions between children and pets to ensure everyone is safe and happy.
Lifestyle Adaptability
Havanese dogs are adaptable to different lifestyles, making them a great option for those with busy schedules.
They are content to spend time with their owners, whether it be lounging on the couch or going for a walk.
They are also lap dogs and love to snuggle, making them great companions for those who enjoy spending time at home.
Frequently Asked Questions – Havanese Pros and Cons
What are the common temperament challenges with Havanese dogs?
Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. However, like any breed, they may have some temperament challenges.
Some Havanese dogs may be prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior when left alone for long periods.
They may also be stubborn during training, requiring patience and consistency from their owners.
How does the Havanese breed fare in terms of lifespan and health?
The Havanese breed has a relatively long lifespan of 14-16 years.
They are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and eye problems.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help ensure your Havanese lives a long and healthy life.
Are Havanese dogs suitable for families and multiple-pet households?
Havanese dogs are great for families and multiple-pet households. They are social dogs that love to be around people and other animals.
They are also gentle and patient with children, making them an excellent choice for families with young kids.
However, as with any breed, it’s important to supervise interactions between dogs and children to prevent accidents.
What is the expected maintenance level for a Havanese dog’s coat and overall care?
Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
They should be brushed at least once a week and taken to a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks for a trim.
In addition to coat care, Havanese dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy.
How does the Havanese breed’s size impact its suitability as a pet?
Havanese dogs are a small breed, typically weighing between 7-13 pounds. Their small size makes them great for apartment living, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
They are also portable and easy to travel with, making them a great choice for those who like to take their pets on the go.
What are the typical costs associated with purchasing and raising a Havanese dog?
The cost of a Havanese puppy can vary. It generally ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the breeder and location.
In addition to the initial purchase price, owners should also budget for food, grooming, veterinary care, and training.
Overall, the cost of owning a Havanese dog can be significant. But the love and companionship they provide make it well worth it.