--- title: "Havanese Puppies: Complete Breed Information" type: "post" slug: "havanese-puppies-complete-breed-information" published_at: "2026-10-18T04:10:46+00:00" modified_at: "2026-10-18T04:11:10+00:00" url: "https://sagepuppies.com/havanese-puppies-complete-breed-information/" markdown_url: "https://sagepuppies.com/havanese-puppies-complete-breed-information.md" taxonomy_category: - "Breed Guides" - "Havanese" author: "Matt Milar" publisher: "Sage Puppies" --- # Havanese Puppies: Complete Breed Information > **Quick Summary:** The Havanese is a small 7 to 13 pound Cuban companion dog with a silky double coat, a friendly people-first temperament, and a 12 to 16 year lifespan that fits well in apartments and families. The coat sheds very little but needs brushing two to four times a week or a short puppy cut, and serious buyers should ask breeders for OFA patella, cardiac, eye, and BAER hearing certificates on both parents. Well-bred puppies typically run $3,500 to $4,500. Sage Puppies in South Jordan, Utah raises Havanese alongside related breeds like the Havapoo and Cavapoo, using health testing and a matching process to place the right puppy with each family. If a cheerful little shadow that follows you from the kitchen to the couch sounds like your kind of company, the Havanese has probably already caught your eye. The trouble is that most online havanese puppies breed information mixes solid facts with guesswork, especially about the coat, allergies and health testing. This guide sorts those apart. You will learn what the breed is really like to live with, what its *double coat* does and does not mean, and which health checks matter before you bring a puppy home. We will also compare the Havanese honestly with the Havapoo and Cavapoo, the small companion breeds our Sage Puppies program raises in South Jordan, Utah. The goal is simple: help you decide with clear evidence instead of marketing. ## Havanese Breed History and Where They Come From Anyone reading Havanese puppies breed information quickly learns this is a breed with a travel history. The Havanese came from small bichon-type dogs brought from Europe to Tenerife, a Canary Island, centuries ago. Spanish settlers and traders then carried those little dogs to Cuba, where they developed into their own breed. ### From Tenerife Companions to a Cuban National Dog In Cuba, the breed grew from an ancestor called the *Blanquito de la Habana*, a small white dog now extinct. Sea captains gave the dogs as gifts, and wealthy Cuban families kept them as much-loved house companions. Their silky coats and cheerful nature made them favorites, and the breed eventually took its name from Havana, the capital city. Today the Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, the country’s only native breed, according to the [American Kennel Club](https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/havanese/) . ![Havanese dog on sunlit Cuban terrace](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ai-image-1792296454294-vomx6j.webp) Havanese dog on sunlit Cuban terrace ### How Eleven Dogs Rebuilt the Breed in the United States Cuban families fleeing the revolution in 1959 brought their dogs to the United States. Breeders worked from about eleven of those dogs to rebuild the breed, a fact documented by the [Havanese Club of America](https://havaneseclubofamerica.org/havanese-history/) . That narrow base is why modern health testing matters so much in Havanese puppies breed information, and why we screen our breeding dogs before any pairing. ## Havanese Size, Coat, and Appearance The Havanese is a small, sturdy companion dog with a silky coat and a slightly longer-than-tall body. Adults stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches at the shoulder and usually weigh 7 to 13 pounds, so they fit easily in apartments, cars, and laps, according to the [AKC breed profile](https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/havanese/) . ### Toy Breed Size and Build Don’t let the “toy” label fool you. The Havanese is small but not fragile, with solid bone and good muscle under that soft coat. The ideal height sits between 9 and 10.5 inches, per the [Havanese Club of America](https://havaneseclubofamerica.org/breed-standard/) . The body is a touch longer than it is tall, the tail curls over the back, and the dark eyes sit under plume-like hair. This build suits families who want a dog small enough to carry but tough enough for play with kids. ### A Double Coat That Looks Like Silk The coat is the breed’s signature feature. It’s a **double coat**: a soft undercoat beneath long, lightweight outer hair that feels like raw silk. Adult coat can reach 6 to 8 inches if you let it grow, though most pet families keep it trimmed short for easy care. The coat sheds very little, which is part of the breed’s appeal, though “low-shedding” is not the same as allergy-proof. ### Colors and Markings You Will See Nearly every color is allowed. Common ones include white, cream, gold, black, chocolate, silver, and fawn, often in **parti** (white with patches) or **tricolor** patterns. Markings range from tan points to a blaze on the chest. Puppies can also lighten or darken as they mature, so the adult coat may differ from the one you meet at eight weeks. If coat color matters to you, ask to see the parents first. ## Havanese Temperament and Family Compatibility The Havanese is a friendly, playful companion dog that bonds closely with its people. The AKC describes the breed as affectionate, intelligent, and outgoing, and the Havanese Club of America rates it at the top of its scale for being good with family, children, and other dogs. That mix is exactly why so many families shortlist this breed. ![Havanese puppy playing with children on rug](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ai-image-1792296504663-l0i3p3.webp) Havanese puppy playing with children on rug ### Affectionate, Social, and People-Oriented Havanese dogs want to be where you are. They follow family members from room to room, curl up on laps, and learn tricks quickly because they love the attention. They are not kennel dogs; long days alone wear on them. A family where someone is home most of the day suits them best. The breed’s people-first nature also makes training feel like play rather than work. ### Behavior Around Kids, Other Pets, and Strangers The Havanese scores well with young children and other dogs in [AKC breed trait ratings](https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/havanese/) . Their small size means rough play should still be supervised, since even a sturdy 7 to 13 pound dog can be hurt by a tumbling toddler. With other pets they are usually welcoming, especially when raised together. Strangers get a cheerful greeting rather than suspicion, which makes them poor watchdogs but easy travel and guest companions. Early socializing keeps that confidence steady. ### Barking Tendencies and Apartment Living Havanese bark more than the average toy breed, mostly to announce visitors. Consistent training keeps it manageable, and their small size fits apartment life well. Their exercise needs are modest, so short walks and indoor play cover most days. Families who want a slightly curlier, low-shedding coat often compare the Havanese with the Havapoo, which we also raise; both share this warm, people-oriented temperament. ## Havanese Health and Lifespan ### Typical Lifespan and What Influences It Most Havanese live 12 to 16 years, which makes them one of the longer-lived companion breeds. Diet, dental care, and keeping a small dog at a healthy weight all shape those years. Because they stay 7 to 13 pounds, a few extra pounds matter more than they would on a large dog. Regular vet visits catch small problems before they grow. ### Conditions Breeders and Owners Watch For Havanese are generally sturdy, but the breed has a few known risks. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place, is the most common, and the [OFA explains how it is screened](https://ofa.org/diseases/patellar-luxation/) . Others include heart murmurs, eye conditions such as cataracts, and congenital deafness. None of these are guaranteed to appear, so it helps to separate real risk from scary internet lists. Good breeders reduce the odds by testing parents before breeding rather than promising a problem-free puppy. ![Veterinarian examining a Havanese puppy on a clinic table](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ai-image-1792296524597-d3tjff.webp) Veterinarian examining a Havanese puppy on a clinic table ### What Current Health Testing Actually Covers Responsible breeders test the parents, not just the puppies. The [Havanese Club of America’s testing guide](https://havaneseclubofamerica.org/health-issues-and-testing/) lists OFA patellar luxation, cardiac, and eye exams among the core requirements, plus BAER hearing tests. These exams document that a dog is clear at the time of testing; they cannot promise a puppy will never develop an issue later in life. That is the honest line between evidence and assumption. We share each parent’s test results with families during our matching process, so you can see exactly what was checked and what was not before you commit. When you compare breeders, ask to see the actual certificates rather than taking the words “health tested” at face value. ## Feeding, Exercise, and Daily Care ![Havanese puppy eating beside a water bowl in a bright kitchen](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ai-image-1792296550939-bi88oc.webp) Havanese puppy eating beside a water bowl in a bright kitchen ### Feeding a Toy Breed Puppy and Adult Small dogs need small, regular meals. Havanese puppies do well on three meals a day until about six months old, then two meals a day. The Havanese Club of America suggests putting food down for a set window so puppies learn to eat when it is offered; their [new puppy care guide](https://havaneseclubofamerica.org/caring-for-your-new-havanese-puppy/) walks through early feeding steps. An adult eating a typical dry food needs roughly 270 to 430 calories per day, often about three quarters to one and a quarter cups split into two meals, per one [breed feeding chart](https://www.plainbowl.com/breed/havanese) . Because adults weigh only 7 to 13 pounds, measure portions and weigh your dog now and then. ### Exercise That Fits a Small Body About 30 minutes of daily activity is enough, and [PetMD’s breed health guide](https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/havanese) notes it can be split into short 10-minute walks or play sessions. A game of fetch down the hallway counts. Havanese love to bounce and perform, but keep jumps off high furniture limited while they are growing. ### Mental Enrichment and Bonding This breed thrives on company, so plan for daily interaction. Short training sessions, puzzle feeders, and sniffy walks keep a busy mind satisfied. Hide treats around a room or teach a new trick each week. These small rituals build the deep bond Havanese are known for. ## Training and Socialization for a Havanese Puppy Havanese puppies train easily because they want to be with you. They’re bright, food-motivated, and sensitive, so gentle methods beat harsh corrections every time. ### Positive Reinforcement Works Best Reward the behavior you want with treats, praise, or a quick game, and your puppy will repeat it. This approach, called positive reinforcement, is backed by the science of animal learning and is the standard the [AKC recommends](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/operant-conditioning-positive-reinforcement-dog-training/) . Havanese are soft-tempered dogs, so scolding can shut them down rather than teach them. Keep sessions short, about five minutes, and end on a win. Because they’re people-focused, they also pick up tricks fast once the basics click. ### Early Experiences Shape a Confident Adult The first few months matter most. Between roughly 3 and 14 weeks, puppies are open to new sights, sounds, people, and pets, and breed guides consistently point to early socialization as the key to a steady adult Havanese. Introduce your puppy to friendly dogs, different floor surfaces, car rides, kids, and gentle handling of paws and ears. Keep each new experience calm and positive, and let your puppy choose to approach rather than forcing it. A puppy class is an easy way to cover a lot of ground safely, and our [Havanese breed guides](https://sagepuppies.com/category/breed-guides/havanese/) walk through age-by-age steps. ### Crate Comfort and Alone-Time Building A crate becomes a safe den when you introduce it slowly with treats and meals inside. Start with the door open, then build up to short closed-door naps. Havanese bond hard with their people, so brief, calm separations from day one help prevent separation stress later. Never use the crate as punishment. ## Havanese Grooming and Coat Care The Havanese coat needs steady upkeep, but it is very manageable with a routine. The silky hair grows long and catches tangles, so brushing and regular trims matter more than fancy products. The ASPCA notes the coat needs brushing several times a week and calls this breed a higher-maintenance groom than many small dogs. ### Brushing, Combing, and the Puppy Cut Option Brush two to four times a week with a slicker brush, then run a metal comb through to catch mats near the skin. Pay extra attention behind the ears, armpits, and the belly. Most pet families choose a puppy cut, which trims the body to 1 to 3 inches and cuts brushing time in half. Show coats need daily work; pet cuts do not. For a week-by-week plan, see our [Havanese grooming schedule by coat type](https://sagepuppies.com/havanese-grooming-schedule-by-coat-type/) . ### Bathing, Skin, Eyes, and Ears Bathe every two to four weeks, or whenever the coat feels dirty. Dry the coat fully with a blow dryer on low while brushing, since damp hair mats fast. Wipe under the eyes daily to limit tear staining, and check ears weekly for redness or odor. Trim nails every few weeks. ### Dental Care for Small Breeds Small breeds build tartar quickly, so brush teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste. Regular brushing protects the gums and cuts the risk of tooth loss later in life. ## Choosing a Healthy Havanese and What to Ask a Breeder A good breeder wants your questions and answers them plainly. A breeder who dodges, rushes, or pressures you is telling you something important before you ever pay a deposit. ### A Short List of Questions Worth Asking Bring these to any breeder you talk to. Written health testing results for both parents, including eye and knee (patella) clearances, matter more than cute photos. Ask which vaccines and dewormings the puppy has had, how the litter was socialized, and whether you can meet the mother dog. A confident breeder will also ask *you* questions about your home, schedule, and experience. That back-and-forth is a good sign, not a hurdle. Programs like Sage Puppies in South Jordan, Utah use an application and matching process for exactly this reason. ### Understanding Puppy Pricing Without the Hype Well-bred Havanese puppies commonly fall between $3,500 and $4,500, which reflects health testing, vet care, and early socialization, not markups. The number is the start, though, not the finish. Budget for food, grooming, and vet visits in the first year. Ask what the price actually includes so you are comparing like with like. Our [puppy pricing and reservation](https://sagepuppies.com/pricing-reservation/) page breaks down exactly what a deposit covers. ### Avoiding Scams and Pressure Tactics Scams follow demand, and puppies are in high demand. The BBB warns buyers to avoid deals that look too good and to never pay with wire transfers, gift cards, or crypto, since those payments cannot be reversed, per [BBB pet scam guidance](https://www.bbb.org/all/petscams) . Treat stock photos, refusal to video chat, and “pay today or lose the puppy” tactics as red flags. A real breeder will let you take your time. ![Sage Puppies homepage](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sagepuppies.com-1781544698129.png) Sage Puppies homepage If the Havanese sounds like your kind of dog, the next step is simple. [Sage Puppies](https://sagepuppies.com) raises Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo puppies with health testing and hands-on care, so you can start with an application and find the right match for your family. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Q1: complete havanese puppies breed information The Havanese is a small Cuban companion breed, 7 to 13 pounds, with a silky low-shedding double coat, a friendly people-first temperament, and a 12 to 16 year lifespan. ### Q2: Do Havanese shed or trigger allergies? They shed very little, but low-shedding is not allergy-proof. Spend time around the breed before committing if allergies are a concern. ### Q3: Are Havanese good with children? Yes, they rate highly with kids, but their small size means play with toddlers should always be supervised. ### Q4: How much exercise does a Havanese need? About 30 minutes daily, easily split into short walks or indoor play sessions. ### Q5: How much grooming does the coat require? Brush two to four times weekly, bathe every two to four weeks, or keep a short puppy cut. ### Q6: What health testing should breeders provide? OFA patella, cardiac, and eye exams plus BAER hearing tests on both parents, with certificates you can actually see. ### Q7: What does a well-bred Havanese puppy cost? Typically $3,500 to $4,500, reflecting health testing, vet care, and early socialization rather than markup. ## Conclusion The Havanese is a small, cheerful companion dog with a silky double coat, a 12 to 16 year lifespan, and a people-first temperament that suits families, apartments, and first-time owners. Its coat sheds very little but needs steady brushing or a short puppy cut. Health testing on both parents, including patella, cardiac, eye, and BAER hearing exams, separates evidence from assumption when you compare breeders. Plan for roughly $3,500 to $4,500 for a well-bred puppy. If you want a curlier, even lower-shedding coat, the Havapoo and Cavapoo offer the same warm nature in related small packages.