Havanese Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Havanese is a little dog with a big heart and a bouncy, springy walk. It was bred for one purpose, companionship, and it pursues the job with enthusiasm, following its owners from room to room like a shadow.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in Cuba from small white dogs brought by Spanish settlers, and became a favorite of wealthy families on the island. After the Cuban revolution a few dogs reached the United States, and today's population descends from a small number of founders. Havanese are sturdy, slightly longer than tall, with drop ears, dark eyes and a long, soft, wavy coat that comes in many colors including cream, black, chocolate, gold and parti.

Temperament

Havanese are friendly, playful and sociable. They usually greet strangers cheerfully and get along with other dogs and pets. They are often called Velcro dogs, since they like to stay close. This is lovely for a retired or work-from-home owner but difficult if the dog is left alone for long hours. Plan gradual practice in being alone. See how to help a dog with separation anxiety.

Exercise

They do not need intense activity. A couple of short walks and a play session or a game of fetch in the house are usually enough. Many Havanese like climbing, chasing and learning tricks. Mental activity matters as much as physical exercise.

Training

Havanese are smart, eager and food-motivated, which makes training enjoyable. They respond best to gentle, reward-based methods, and harsh words can hurt their feelings. House training can take time, so rely on a schedule and a pen or crate. They do well in obedience, rally and trick classes, and they sometimes work as therapy dogs.

Coat and grooming

The coat is silky, light and abundant. It needs brushing several times a week, down to the skin, with attention to the ears and behind the legs where mats form. Many pet owners keep it clipped short for easier care. Bathe every few weeks and trim hair around the eyes and feet. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Brush teeth regularly and check ears, since hairy ears trap debris.

Health considerations

The breed is generally sturdy, but topics worth discussing with a breeder and vet include:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Heart disease, including murmurs. See heart murmur in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Liver shunts and hip problems in some lines
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies

Ask breeders about eye, heart, hip and knee screening of both parents.

Living with a Havanese

Havanese suit apartments, townhouses and houses with small gardens. Some bark at noises but most are not persistent barkers. They tolerate heat poorly because of their coat, so keep them cool in summer and use a harness for walks.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy, curious and need steady socialization. Start gentle grooming routines right away, since an adult that dislikes brushing is hard to manage. House training may take a few months of consistency. Offer chew toys and rotate puzzle feeders. See puppy socialization checklist.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Havanese suits people who want a cheerful, trainable shadow and have time for grooming. It does not suit a home where the dog will be alone most of the day. For another soft-coated companion, see the Maltese.

The takeaway

Havanese are affectionate, adaptable and attached, and they flourish with company, training and regular grooming.