Why a Havanese dog could be the perfect small breed for you

The Havanese dog is a charming, small breed celebrated for its silky coat and affectionate nature. Falling within The Kennel Club’s toy grouping, they are well-loved by many UK dog owners and ranked within the top 100 most popular breeds nationally. Their distinctive good looks, genial temperament, and longevity – typically 14-16 years – make them an excellent choice for many households.

In this guide, we delve into the key characteristics, care needs, temperament, and costs associated with owning a Havanese, helping you decide if this delightful breed is a match for your lifestyle.

What is a Havanese dog?

The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog standing between 23-28cm tall at the withers and weighing 4.5-7kg. Their hallmark is a long, thick, usually silky coat complemented by a soft, fluffy undercoat. They come in a wide variety of colours, which adds to their appeal. A notable trait is their low shedding coat, meaning they don’t leave excessive fur around your home.

However, this low shedding comes with a grooming commitment: daily brushing is essential to prevent knotting and matting, especially around sensitive areas like the armpits and belly. Prospective owners should be prepared to invest time in regular grooming or seek professional groomers occasionally.

How much do Havanese dogs cost to buy and care for?

The average price for Havanese puppies on Pets4Homes is approximately £1,230 for Kennel Club registered pedigree pups, and around £837 for non-pedigree puppies. This places them towards the higher end of dog prices overall in the UK.

Despite this initial cost, the Havanese is reasonably economical to keep. Their small size means food, accessories, and medications tend to be less costly compared to larger breeds. The breed is generally robust, with fewer costly health issues, resulting in moderate veterinary expenses over their lifespan.

The Havanese temperament

Known for their lively and enthusiastic demeanour, Havanese dogs are playful, quick, and alert. They bring energy to the home but balance this with loving and affectionate behaviour. Their intelligence enables fast learning, and they respond best to varied, positive training methods to keep their attention.

They thrive on companionship and do not enjoy long periods alone. With proper socialisation and training from a young age, they can handle short absences but benefit greatly from living in a home where someone is present most of the day to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.

Caring for a Havanese dog

Grooming is a significant part of caring for a Havanese. Their luxurious coat needs daily brushing using slicker and pin brushes to avoid tangles. When tangled, a water mist (with a tiny amount of conditioner) can ease grooming. Regular nail trimming, dental care, and eye cleaning are all important for overall health.

Bathing should be done every one to three weeks depending on their activity, using quality shampoos and ensuring thorough drying. Many owners opt for a "puppy cut" to make maintenance simpler and tie back the hair above their eyes to keep it from irritation.

Exercise requirements are moderate but regular. Short daily walks and play suffice to keep them healthy and mentally stimulated. Early socialisation with people and other dogs sets the foundation for a confident, well-mannered pet.

Common health concerns and prevention

Though generally healthy, Havanese dogs can be prone to certain hereditary health issues such as patellar luxation (kneecap problems), hip dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy affecting vision. Dental disease is also relatively common, so regular veterinary dental checks are advisable.

Working with reputable reputable breeders who perform health screenings can reduce genetic risks. Regular vet check-ups help in early detection and management of any developing conditions.

How to find the right Havanese puppy

When choosing a Havanese puppy, it’s important to deal with responsible breeders who prioritise health and temperament over profit. Look for Kennel Club registered breeders who provide up-to-date health documentation and allow you to meet the puppy’s parents. Avoid impulsive purchases; take your time to research and visit several breeders.

Consider adoption as an alternative; rescue organisations sometimes have small breeds like Havanese looking for loving homes, which supports ethical ownership and reduces demand for puppy mills.

Questions to ask before getting a Havanese

• Can I meet the puppy’s parents and see health clearances?
• What grooming commitments will I need to maintain?
• How much time can I dedicate to training and attention daily?
• Is my living environment suitable for a lively, social dog?
• Am I prepared for veterinary and general care costs over a long lifespan?

Conclusion: Is the Havanese right for you?

The Havanese is an affectionate, lively small breed with many appealing qualities for UK dog owners. They require a commitment to grooming and companionship but reward owners with years of loyalty, playfulness, and joy. Consider your lifestyle carefully and if you can meet their needs, the Havanese could be the perfect addition to your family.