Havanese: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Havanese suits a home that wants a cheerful, sociable and trainable small dog that loves people. They adapt well to apartments but don't like long days alone. The soft, abundant coat needs brushing most days, or a shorter trim from a groomer.

A cream and white Havanese with a soft wavy coat playing with a toy on a lawn — Cuban charm in a small, soft package.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Havanese at a glance
Height	About 8.5–11.5 inches (22–29 cm)
Lifespan	Over 12 years
Coat	Soft and abundant, straight to curly; brush most days
Exercise	Up to 30 minutes a day, plus play
Good with	Families, children and other pets, usually
Bred for	Companionship (Cuba's national dog)

Who a Havanese Suits

Havanese are playful, affectionate and keen to please. They suit families, first-time owners and apartment life.

They are a harder fit for long days alone; many follow their people everywhere.

Training and Tricks

Havanese learn quickly with rewards and enjoy tricks and games. Build up alone time gradually from puppyhood; see separation anxiety basics.

Coat Care

Brush to the skin most days, or choose a shorter pet trim every few weeks. Keep the hair around the eyes tidy and brush teeth daily.

Gear for a Havanese

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A slicker brush and comb, topknot bands and a finger toothbrush, plus a puzzle toy for a clever little dog.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists eye testing as good practice for Havanese breeders, with elbow scoring as best practice. Ask to see the parents' results, and ask your vet to check kneecaps at routine visits.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Happy little dogs, common questions.

Are Havanese good with children?

Usually, yes, with gentle children.

Do Havanese shed?

Little hair falls out, but the coat needs regular brushing. No dog is truly allergy-free.

Are Havanese easy to train?

Generally, yes. They enjoy rewards and games.

Can a Havanese be left alone?

Only for short periods once it has learned to settle.