Consider These 25 Questions Before Getting a Havanese Dog
The honest 10-second verdict
If you're home most of the day, willing to keep up with grooming, and want a devoted companion who literally follows you from the couch to the bathroom — a Havanese is spectacularly perfect. If you're away 8+ hours daily without a dog walker, or if you want an independent dog, keep reading before you decide. This is a “Velcro dog” that needs you.
What's in this guide
Is a Havanese Right for You?
Before anything else — run through this checklist honestly. Being realistic about your lifestyle will save both you and the dog from unnecessary stress down the road.
✓ This dog is a great fit if you…
- • Work from home or are home for most of the day
- • Want a lap dog that genuinely loves physical affection
- • Live in an apartment (they are excellent small-space dogs)
- • Are willing to brush their coat multiple times a week
- • Have a family with children or other friendly pets
✕ You might want to reconsider if you…
- • Are out of the house 8+ hours a day without a pet sitter
- • Want an independent dog that entertains itself
- • Are impatient with potty training (small bladders take time)
- • Hate grooming and don't want to pay for a professional
↓ Myths can ruin a dog ownership experience. Let's clear them up.
5 Havanese Myths — Debunked
People see a small, fluffy dog and make assumptions. Tap each myth to see the reality.
↓ Here's everything about their size, build, and the stunning range of colors.
A Sturdy Little Frame
Unlike some toy breeds that feel fragile, the Havanese is surprisingly sturdy. The AKC breed standard requires them to stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches at the shoulder, with an ideal height of 9 to 10.5 inches. They generally weigh between 7 and 13 pounds.
They have a slightly longer body than they are tall, giving them a charming, springy gait. Their tail plumed with long hair gracefully arches over their back, and their dark, almond-shaped eyes give them an expressive, mischievous look.
Size Comparison
Havanese vs Other Bichon-Family Breeds
Average Height (Inches)
Average Weight (Pounds)
Coat Colors: A True Rainbow
The AKC recognizes 16 standard coat colors and 8 standard markings for the Havanese. They come in almost every dog color imaginable. What's even more fascinating is that many Havanese carry a fading gene — meaning that rich chocolate or vibrant gold puppy might fade into a beautiful cafe-au-lait or champagne as an adult!
↓ Let's get into the heart of the breed: the famous “Velcro” personality.
The “Velcro Dog” Personality
If you get a Havanese, prepare to never use the bathroom alone again. They form incredibly strong bonds with their humans and are nicknamed “Velcro dogs” for a reason. The AKC describes their expression as “soft, intelligent and mischievous,” which perfectly captures their clownish, fun-loving nature.
"My Havanese doesn't just want to be in the same room as me; he wants to be touching my foot or sitting directly on my lap while I work. They are the definition of companion dogs."
— Havanese owner, r/Havanese
Deeply Affectionate
Shadow-level devotion. They thrive on physical touch and proximity.
Clownish & Silly
They love to invent games, race down the hallway, and make you laugh.
Highly Intelligent
Historically used as circus dogs. They learn tricks incredibly fast.
Alert Watchdogs
Will definitely bark to tell you the mailman is here, but they aren't aggressive.
The Separation Anxiety Challenge
Because they are hardwired to be with people, independence is a learned skill, not a natural trait. Highly social breeds like the Havanese experience distress when separated, leading to whining, crying, scratching, or soiling the house.
💡 How to Prevent Separation Anxiety
- •Practice very brief separations (even 30 seconds) and gradually increase.
- •Keep hellos and goodbyes completely emotionless and low-key.
- •Provide special treat-stuffed toys (like a frozen Kong) ONLY when you leave.
↓ Now the part most people skip — the real financial picture.
The True Cost of a Havanese
The purchase price ($1,500–$3,500+) is just the beginning. The first year of owning a Havanese will cost roughly $3,800 to $4,500 beyond the purchase price for supplies, food, vet visits, and insurance.
First Year vs Annual Costs
First-year: ~$4,350 | Ongoing: ~$2,350/yr
| Expense | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Food & Treats | $300–$500 |
| Pro Grooming | $500–$800 |
| Vet / Prev. Care | $300–$600 |
| Pet Insurance | $500–$800 |
| Supplies & Toys | $200–$400 |
| Est. Annual Total | $1,800–$3,100 |
↓ Health is overall excellent, but let's look at the data.
A Long, Healthy Life
Havanese have a stellar lifespan of 14–16 years, with nearly a third reaching 15 years, and some living past 18. Females tend to outlive males by about a year on average. They are generally much healthier than many other toy breeds.
Lifespan Comparison
Minimum lifespan + possible additional years
Conditions to Watch For
While hardy, they are prone to a few genetic conditions. Like almost all small dogs, dental disease is the biggest threat. Brushing their teeth daily is mandatory to prevent early tooth loss.
Health Issue Prevalence in Havanese
Dental disease dominates — and it's almost entirely preventable
↓ That gorgeous coat has a catch — here's the real grooming commitment.
The Havanese Coat: Lots of Brushing
They are considered “hypoallergenic” because they have low-shedding hair, not fur. But this hair grows continuously. The Havanese double coat is exceptionally light and soft — designed to insulate them from the hot Cuban sun, not keep them warm in the snow.
Most pet owners opt for a “puppy cut” (1–2 inches all over) because the full, flowing adult coat is basically a part-time job to maintain. Even with a short cut, they require regular brushing to prevent painful mats from forming close to the skin.
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
🪮 Brushing Line-brushing to the skin is required | 3–4 times a week |
🛁 Bathing A dirty coat tangles and breaks easily | Every 2–3 weeks |
✂️ Pro Grooming For a puppy cut and sanitary trim | Every 6–8 weeks |
👁️ Eye Cleaning Wiping away tears to prevent brown stains | Daily |
↓ A smart dog still needs daily outlets — here's what exercise actually looks like.
Exercise: Apartment-Friendly Energy
A healthy adult Havanese needs 30–60 minutes of exercise daily. This can easily be broken into two 20-minute walks plus some indoor play. Their small size makes them arguably one of the best apartment dogs in the world, as their exercise needs can often be met indoors if the weather is terrible.
Tips for exercising a Havanese:
- •Use indoor games like hallway fetch or hide-and-seek with treats
- •Mental stimulation (learning tricks, puzzle toys) tires them out just as much as physical running
- •Due to their size, they are not built for extreme cold, so get them a winter coat!
↓ What about living with kids, cats, and other dogs?
Great with Families — with a Few Caveats
Unlike some high-strung small breeds, Havanese are generally tolerant, gentle, and make excellent playmates for kids. They also thrive with other dogs and cats, which can actually help alleviate their separation anxiety by providing a companion when you leave.
Toddlers (under 5)
⚠️ Supervise
Accidental drops by toddlers are the biggest risk.
Kids 6–12
✓ Excellent
Old enough to learn gentle handling. Havanese love kids.
Other Dogs
✓ Great
Very dog-friendly, helps with their separation anxiety.
Cats
✓ Great
Usually fine. Their low prey drive means they rarely chase.
A Rich History: From Havana's Elite to Your Living Room
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the island's only native breed. Their story is one of aristocracy, revolution, and a near-extinction rescue.
Spanish Origins
Spanish settlers brought small Bichon-type dogs to Cuba. These adapted to the tropical climate, becoming known as the Blanquito de la Habana.
The Modern Havanese
Poodles were introduced to Cuba and crossed with the Blanquito, resulting in the Havanese. They became beloved lapdogs for Cuban aristocrats.
The Cuban Revolution
As families fled Cuba, they had to leave their dogs behind. The breed faced near extinction on the island.
Breed Revival in the US
An American couple tracked down 11 Havanese dogs brought over by exiled Cuban families, forming the foundation of the breed today.
AKC Recognition
The American Kennel Club officially recognizes the breed.
↓ Intelligence means they train fast, but potty training is a hurdle.
Training and The Potty Struggle
Havanese are incredibly smart and eager to please. They respond beautifully to positive reinforcement but shut down instantly if you use harsh corrections.
The Potty Training Reality: This is where many owners hit a wall. Small dogs have small bladders. Potty training a Havanese requires military-level consistency. It can take 6–8 months to achieve full reliability.
Potty Training Golden Rules
- 1.Take them out immediately after waking, eating, and playing.
- 2.Never carry them outside — let them walk so they learn the route to the door.
- 3.Massive praise and high-value treats the second they finish outside.
Training Milestones by Age
| Age | Focus |
|---|---|
| 8–12 wks | Potty routines, Name recall |
| 10–16 wks | Socialization, Crate training |
| 3–5 mo | Sit, Down, Leave it |
| 5–8 mo | Loose-leash walk |
| 8–12 mo | Tricks, advanced focus |
↓ Ready to get one? Here's how to avoid the puppy mill trap.
Where to Actually Get One
Never buy from a pet store or an online-only seller where you just add a puppy to your cart. These are almost always puppy mills, and the dogs often suffer from severe behavioral and health issues later on.
Compare Your Options
Reputable Breeder
Best for long-term healthPros
- ✓ CHIC health testing on parents
- ✓ Predictable temperament
- ✓ Puppy socialization starts early
- ✓ Breeder support for life
Cons
- ✕ High upfront cost
- ✕ Long waitlists common
- ✕ Requires navigating puppy phase
Rescue / Shelter
Best for experienced ownersPros
- ✓ Lower upfront cost
- ✓ Often already potty trained
- ✓ Adult temperament is known
- ✓ Saving a dog's life
Cons
- ✕ Unknown early history/health
- ✕ May have separation anxiety
- ✕ Specific colors/ages hard to find
Pet Store / Online Listing
Avoid if possiblePros
- ✓ Immediate availability
Cons
- ✕ Likely puppy mill sourced
- ✕ No health history
- ✕ Hidden vet costs ahead
- ✕ No breeder support
Breeder Red Flags vs. Green Flags
So — Is a Havanese Worth It?
Havanese are remarkable dogs that charm their way into your heart and refuse to leave. Here's the honest at-a-glance verdict:
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Affection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| For Apartments | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| With Kids | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Trainability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Health | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Lifespan | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Potty Training | ⭐⭐ |
| Grooming | ⭐ |
| Alone time | ⭐ |
The bottom line
Yes, the grooming is intense and the potty training takes patience. But what you get in return is a fiercely loyal, incredibly silly best friend who wants nothing more than to make you happy. If you're willing to invest the time, a Havanese becomes an irreplaceable piece of your heart.
