Hypoallergenic, smart and small, a Havanese is a wonderful companion for families or senior couples. They tend to suffer from separation anxiety and suit families that are home during the day.

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The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and boasts of a long luxurious coat. Originally they were bred to be a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy but are now valued family members that are gentle with children and other pets. If you’re after an intelligent yet small dog, then a Havanese is the right pet for you as they are one of the brightest and sturdiest of toy breeds.

They make wonderful companions for the elderly, great family pets and are even good watchdogs – being moderate barkers you can expect your Havanese to announce the arrival of guests. While smart, Havanese can be slow to house train. Consistent training is key for this dog. They tend to suffer from separation anxiety and thrive when involved in all aspects of family life. Don’t leave them alone for long periods of time or you might find you dog has chewed through the rug.

Fun fact: Famous Havanese parents include Ernest Hemingway,

Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria. They were close to extinction in the 50’s

until three families left Cuba for the US and built the breed back up.

With moderate energy levels, don’t plan on a vigorous exercise regime. A daily stroll and few games at the park are ideal. They are well-suited to apartment living. Havanese live for 10-15 years. Allergic to dogs? Then this breed is right for you. Havanese don’t shed and are hypoallergenic. They are moderate to high maintenance and their coat needs to be brushed daily.

Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet a preventative healthcare program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. Havanese are prone to eye problems such as cataracts and blindness.

Size

A small-sized breed weighing 3-6kgs with an average height of 25cms.

Space

Apartment living is perfect for this pet.

Energy Levels

They have moderate to high energy levels. A daily walk and some games will keep this dog happy.

Difficulty Of Training

They are intelligent dogs and will learn quickly, although they are notably slow to housebreak.

Family suitability

They are great family pets and loyal companions.

Suitability to other pets

If socialised from a young age, your dog will befriend other pets.

Need for company

They have a high need for company and enjoy being by their humans side at all times.

Hypoallergenic dog breed?

Yes

Coat and grooming needs

This breed is high maintenance. Brush their coat daily to prevent matting. They have a medium long coat in all colours and combinations including white.

Shedding

They shed little.

Tendency to bark

They have a high tendency to bark.

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