Havanese Dog Longevity and Hereditary Health Facts

The Havanese dog puppies belong to the Bichon type of small breeds, originally developed in Havana, Cuba. Recognised as Cuba's national dog, the Havanese emerged from crossing two now extinct breeds: the Bichon Tenerife and the Blanquito de la Habana.

These dogs are small but sturdy, sporting long, silky double coats available in almost any colour, with white being the most common. Their coat consists of a soft undercoat and a longer, smooth topcoat. Low shedding levels mean the breed may suit allergy-sensitive owners.

The breed typically stands up to 11 inches tall at the withers and weighs between 3-6 kg. They have a well-proportioned, solid build and a signature springy gait. Their affectionate and social nature makes them excellent companions who require plenty of human interaction and attention to thrive.

If you are considering bringing a friendly Havanese into your family, understanding their longevity and hereditary health is crucial. This article explores these aspects in detail, offering guidance to help future owners make informed, responsible decisions.

Havanese Longevity and Life Expectancy

The average lifespan of a Havanese is around 12 to 15 years, placing them among the longer-lived small breeds. Studies and health surveys show many individuals living 14 years or more, reflecting the breed's overall healthy constitution.

Health and Breed Characteristics

The Havanese's build is robust, contributing to its generally good health. Their dense, long coat requires regular grooming and trimming around the eyes to prevent irritation and ensure clear vision. Owners should also be mindful that a thick coat can increase the risk of overheating in hot weather, so appropriate care and shade are essential during warmer months.

Genetic Diversity and Responsible Breeding

One of the breed's strengths is a low coefficient of inbreeding, measured at approximately 2.7%, significantly below the recommended maximum of 6.25%. This reflects a diverse gene pool which helps reduce the likelihood of inherited health issues. Responsible breeders strive to maintain and improve this diversity through careful selection and health screening.

Common Hereditary Health Concerns

Though generally healthy, the Havanese breed can be predisposed to certain hereditary conditions. Awareness helps owners and breeders identify, manage, and reduce the impact of these issues.

• Eye Conditions: Heritable cataracts are the most prominent genetic eye disorder, often developing between 3 to 7 years old. Other eye problems include cherry eye, distichiasis (an abnormal row of eyelashes irritating the eye), and excessive tearing. Screening for retinal dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (a degenerative eye disorder) is recommended before breeding.
• Patellar Luxation: A common joint issue affecting the kneecaps, where the ligaments and muscles may not hold the kneecap firmly in place, potentially causing dislocation and discomfort. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
• Portosystemic Shunt: A liver blood vessel abnormality where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxin build-up and serious health complications.
• Congenital Deafness: More frequently observed in all-white coated dogs. While direct genetic screening is unavailable for this, dogs with deaf parents or close lineage with deafness should not be bred.
• Cataracts and Other Eye Disorders: Cataracts can often be treated with surgery. Distichiasis may cause irritation but can be managed by a vet.

Health Testing Recommendations

Prospective breeders and owners are encouraged to utilise health testing protocols recommended by veterinary and breed clubs. These include:

• Eye examinations for retinal diseases, cataracts, and distichiasis.
• Orthopaedic screenings, including patellar luxation and hip evaluations.
• Liver function assessments to detect portosystemic shunts.
• Auditory tests to check for deafness.

Such testing helps reduce hereditary risks and improves the breed’s long-term health. Dogs that pass these tests often carry a CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) number, signifying recommended screening compliance.

Maintaining a Healthy Havanese

Besides genetic health, maintaining overall well-being involves regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, proper grooming, and ensuring regular exercise tailored to the dog's size and energy level. Preventative care, including vaccinations and parasite control, is vital.

Conclusion

The Havanese is a charming, robust, and generally healthy breed with a good lifespan of 12 to 15 years. While some hereditary health issues exist, responsible breeders use health screenings and careful mating to minimise risks. Prospective owners should prioritise reputable breeders who follow these protocols to ensure their new family member enjoys a long, happy, and healthy life.