Havanese — breed guide
A sturdy, sunny little companion that trains beautifully and hates being left out of anything.
At a glance
- Group
- toy
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 3–6 kg (7–13 lb)
- Life span
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Silky, wavy, low-shedding coat
Living with a Havanese
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Barely sheds.
- Quick to learn.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Feels the cold.
Temperament
Cheerful · Sociable · Gentle · Comical
Health to watch
- Luxating patella
- Cataracts
- Chondrodysplasia
- Deafness
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
The Havanese is Cuba’s national dog and once charmed Havana’s aristocracy — and Charles Dickens.
Questions people ask
Is a Havanese good with kids?
Generally yes. Havaneses are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Havanese good with cats?
Usually yes. Havaneses typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Havanese need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Havanese handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Havanese's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.