Are Havanese hypoallergenic? Do Havanese shed?

Havanese are often called hypoallergenic dogs because they’re low shedders. Brushing your Havanese pup will keep those flyaway hairs at bay (and allergy triggers to a minimum). However, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, as they all contain allergens in their saliva, skin, and even pee, to a certain degree. Talk to your doctor before adopting a Havanese if you have allergies.

Are Havanese good with kids?

Yes, many Havanese dogs are great family dogs for kids . They love attention, and kids love them. As with any dog, socialize and train your Havanese, and teach children how to respectfully play with tiny pups.

How big is a full-grown Havanese?

The Havanese size is tiny. Both male and female Havanese are likely to be between 7–13 pounds when full-grown.

What are some Havanese characteristics?

These dogs are known for being small, cheerful, adaptable, and outgoing. They’re social butterflies who like people and (usually) other pets.

Havanese

Updated July 2, 2025

A doting, delightful dog who loves attention, the Havanese is a cheery small dog. These bite-sized mood boosters are a great fit for almost any home, especially if it’s as lively and social as they are.

Temperament

Adoring, Cheery, Social

Weight

7–13 pounds

Height

8.5–11.5 inches

Life Expectancy

14–16 years

Maintenance Level

Friendliness

Coat Color

White, Black, Black Brindle, Chocolate, Cream, Fawn, Gold, Gold Brindle, Gold Sable, Red, Red Sable, Red Brindle, Silver, Silver Brindle, Black and Tan, Black and Silver

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If your Havanese took a personality test, they’d be a solid ESFJ—a delightful extrovert who charms everyone with their winning attitude.

Their long, silky hair might be one of their cutest features, but Havanese dogs are less concerned with looking adorable and more curious about everything around them—like that flower over there, and that new person by the bench, and whatever their best friend (that’s you) is doing.

Playful and kind, Havanese thrive in almost any environment as long as they’re on the receiving end of round-the-clock affection and attention.

Havanese Characteristics

Remember: Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Exercise Needs

Health Issues

Grooming Needs

Training Needs

Shedding Level

Friendliness

Playfulness

Energy Level

Good for Apartments and Small Homes

Sensitive to Cold Weather

Sensitive to Warm Weather

Good for First-Time Pet Parents

Havanese Appearance

A silky tail curls over the Havanese’s back and wags happily as you walk through the door. With an intelligent face and soft double coat, their dark brown eyes are warm and bright.

Ears
Havanese ears are broader at the base and set high on the head. When sitting at attention for treats or listening for the sound of keys in the door, they lift but remain folded over.
Eyes
Havanese eyes are large and almond-shaped. They’re almost always dark brown and lined in solid black. But in chocolate-colored dogs, they’re sometimes lighter and lined in brown.
Nose
Their broad nose is solid black on most Havanese dogs, but for those with a chocolate-colored coat, it’s solid brown.
Coat Length
Havanese have a long, silky double coat.
Coat Color
Havanese colors include black, black and silver, brown, silver, fawn, red brindle, black brindle, and white. They can also have many marking patterns, including cream, white, tan, and even different-colored markings throughout their coat.
Tail
Their long, silky tail curls over their back and wags with ease.

Havanese Temperament

There are so many things to do and see in the world, yet your Havanese’s favorite place is with their favorite person—lucky you! Whether you’re watching a movie or folding laundry, you have their attention, and they find you fascinating.

However, this doesn’t mean they’re a homebody. On the contrary, this friendly dog wants to see the world and meet new people. If you, too, think that strangers are just friends you haven’t met yet, you’ve met your soul pup.

These social butterflies will make new acquaintances every time they go on a walk, whether two- or four-legged. While Havanese dogs look dainty, they’re sturdier than they seem and have enough energy for at least a couple of neighborhood sprints a day. The most agile Havanese may love dog sports like agility, too.

These bright pups will let you know when they’re feeling playful; they might drop a favorite dog toy at your feet and cock their head to announce it’s time for a game of fetch.

When it comes to training, it’s easy-peasy. Because they’re very smart dogs and eager to please (and learn!), most Havanese pick up simple cues quickly.

And if you have other furry friends in the house, no worries. When it comes to the Havanese, the more friends, the merrier. Just make sure everyone is introduced and socialized properly.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Havanese

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How to Care for a Havanese

Many Havanese will need daily brushing, but this just gives you extra time to bond. They’ll also need training (either with your guidance or in a class with other pups), along with a moderate exercise routine.

Bathing: Give your dog a bath once a month (unless they get super dirty, then more often is OK). Don’t share shampoos—your pup always needs dog-safe suds.
Brushing: The Havanese dog breed has a silky double coat, so daily brushing is a must if you leave it long. A pin brush will work best for any Havanese haircut, and you can use a detangling spray, too. If your dog does get tangles, buy a good detangling brush.
Dental care: Many small dogs are prone to dental disease, so brush your Havanese’s teeth daily with a dog toothpaste like Petsmile Professional Toothpaste. Start brushing early when you bring home your Havanese puppy; they’ll get used to it faster when they’re young. Get a pro teeth cleaning at your vet once a year.
Nail care: Trim your dog’s nails once a month. If you can hear the nails clacking on hard surfaces when they walk, it’s time for a pawdicure.
Eye care: Havanese with lighter-color fur often have noticeable tear stains, and you may be able to clear up the stains just by wiping your dog’s eyes and face every day with vet-recommended tear stain removers. Do your best to keep the hair around their eyes trimmed short as well, as long hair can irritate them.

Start with some basic obedience training—like sit, stay, and come—when your Havanese puppy is 7–8 weeks old (or as soon as possible if you adopt a Havanese adult). Havanese are smart and very eager to please, so they’re easy to train. They may be small, but they’re highly capable canines.

Don’t forget socialization, too. It’s important to introduce your pup to new people, places, and experiences so they’re used to novel interactions and become a calm and confident adult. Because Havanese tend to be social butterflies, they’ll probably adapt well to new situations, people, and animals.

You can take your dog to group training classes or get involved in a dog sport like agility trials, too. Keep them up-to-date on necessary vaccines, especially if they’re with other dogs in a group setting.

Always use positive reinforcement (with praise, special training treats, and toys at the ready) to teach your pup how to be on their very best behavior.

Havanese puppies can be tricky to potty train. But this isn’t because they’re not bright—rather, it’s because their bladder is so small. Take them outside often and begin training as early as you can. If you adopt them when they’re older, never fear—like many dogs, adult Havanese are also great learners! You can even potty train them in their senior years; it’s never too late.

Talk to your vet about crate training, too. Dogs like to keep their “dens” clean, and a lot of smaller dogs find having their own special space comforting. Crate training can also help with potty training!

Always make sure to choose the right crate size for your dog. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, and it should have blankets, pillows, toys, and whatever else you need to make your dog feel cozy and at home.

There’s no one-size-fits-all nutrition plan for Havanese dogs, but every pup needs a complete and balanced diet that meets AAFCO standards. Choose a diet made specially for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).

You may also want to choose a kibble that’s specially formulated for small dogs, like Hill’s Small Breed & Mini Breed Dog Food or Royal Canin Size Health Small Dog Food, so it’s easy for your petite pup to digest. Your vet can help you choose the right formula.

Because of the small Havanese size, even one extra pound can make a big difference in your dog’s health. Remember that treats are great motivators, but they still count as calories, and obesity can lead to joint issues, diabetes, and other health risks. Treats should never be more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories.

They may be small, but Havanese have plenty of energy and need at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. Otherwise, they’ll find their own fun, which could mean chewing up your furniture.

Daily walks and games of fetch are a great place to start, and some Havanese also enjoy dog sports, like flyball and agility trials.

These smart pups need plenty of mental stimulation, too. They love interactive toys, games, and nose work.

Doggy daycare might also be a great option for your Havanese pup to keep active during the day if you’re at work or have other obligations where they can’t come along (make it up to them with extra attention and praise when you pick them up).

Small apartment? The Havanese would be delighted to be part of your tiny paradise. Spacious abode with an ample backyard? The Havanese will happily come live in your kingdom.

These pups aren’t concerned so much with the size of their living space, but more so that you’re there. Havanese love company, and they need a pet parent (whether first-time or experienced) who will give them a ton of affection and attention.

This adaptable dog plays well with others (especially if well-socialized) and generally gets along with kids and other pets (whether they have fur, fins, or feathers).

And if you’re the kind of person who loves to host dinner parties for friends, your Havanese will happily agree to co-host—as long as you don’t mind being upstaged by a 10-pound ball of fluff.

Havanese Health

The Havanese lifespan is 14–16 years. Here are some health issues to be aware of. 

Heart issues: Havanese are prone to heart murmurs. A heart murmur is the earliest sign of mitral valve disease, which results in the heart muscle becoming enlarged and pumping blood inefficiently. If your pup has a murmur, your vet will likely refer them to a veterinary cardiologist for an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). 
Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is when the hip and thigh bones don’t properly fit, leading to a loose joint and (eventually) arthritis and pain. More severe cases may require surgery, but hip dysplasia is often treated with medications, joint supplements, special diets, weight management, and/or physical therapy.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: A rare and likely genetic disease that causes bone death in the head of the femur and significant changes to the hip joint, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease usually develops in a pup’s first year of life, causing pain and limping. Serious cases may require surgery, but most Havanese puppies make a full recovery.
Luxating patella: Havanese can develop a luxating patella, where the kneecap slips out of place. You might notice that they do a little bunny hop or skip—this could be a symptom. It may be treated with supplements and meds, if mild, though surgery may be needed. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help prevent this condition.
Osteochondrodysplasia: Havanese are susceptible to osteochondrodysplasia, a genetic disorder that affects bone and cartilage development. This can be minor, in which case no treatment is necessary; otherwise, pain meds are a good option, if needed.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA leads to blindness in dogs, and while there is no cure, pups who lose their eyesight tend to adapt well and can still live full, happy lives.

Havanese History

Named after the capitol city of Havana, these dogs’ ancestors first gained favor in 1500s Cuba, where they were the favorites of wealthy farmers and the aristocracy. Unlike many canines of the time, Havanese weren’t working dogs; instead, they lived a life of leisure—just like most dogs today.

Legends vary regarding Havanese origin, but it’s fairly certain that Poodles from Europe visited the island in the 19th century, and the resulting crossbreed is today’s modern Havanese. It’s also believed that the Havanese’s ancestors include the Bichon Frise and the Maltese.

What’s certain is that the little dogs only became more popular since their origin. In fact, famous English novelist Charles Dickens and famous American novelist Ernest Hemingway were both fond of the dogs.

During the Cuban Revolution in the late 1950s, emigrants brought their dogs abroad, and the Havanese was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1996.

Typically, Havanese puppies cost between $1,800–$2,500. If you choose this route, pick a responsible breeder.

You can also look into Havanese adoption, as there are many puppies and adult dogs patiently waiting for forever homes. Check out a Havanese rescue like Havanese Rescue Inc., keep an eye out at your local animal shelter or rescue, or search Chewy’s database of adoptable dogs in your area.

FAQs

Like many small dogs with a bad rap for being yappy, Havanese can sometimes bark. They’ll bark when they need to tell you someone’s outside, and they may bark playfully when they’re having fun.

Havanese with separation anxiety might bark when left alone, but you can work with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist who practices positive reinforcement to help your dog feel safe and know things will be OK, even if you’re gone for a bit.

This content was medically reviewed by Barri Morrison, DVM, Chewy veterinarian.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Havanese

Havanese