Havanese are very people-oriented dogs. They love snuggling in laps and can become overly dependent. They don’t do well when left alone for long periods. This can lead to unhappiness and boredom, which may cause barking and destructive chewing.
Havanese are peaceful and gentle with everyone, including other pets. However, they can be cautious around strangers. Socialization is important to help them build confidence and prevent excessive timidity.
If you’re thinking of getting a Havanese, it’s better to make an informed decision. To help you with that, we have outlined the Havanese Pros and Cons in the read-ahead so you can be sure that the breed is suitable for you.
Havanese Pros and Cons
Havanese dogs are small, charming, and have a rich history. Originating from Cuba, they were beloved by Cuban aristocracy in the 18th century. These dogs have a distinctive appearance with their long, silky coats and expressive eyes. They come in various colors, including white, black, and chocolate, and typically weigh between 7-13 pounds.
Havanese are intelligent and easy to train, making them great for families and individuals alike. They are friendly and social, getting along well with children and other pets. Their size makes them ideal for apartment living. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature, always ready for fun and cuddles.
One interesting feature is their ability to learn tricks and excel in competitive obedience and agility. If you’re looking for a lively, loving companion with a rich history and unique charm, the Havanese might be the perfect addition to your home.
Pros of a Havanese Dog
Here are some pros of a havanese dog:
- Friendly
Havanese dogs are very social and love being around people. They get along well with children and other pets, making them great family companions.
- Small Size
Their compact size makes them perfect for people who live in apartments. They don’t need a lot of space to be happy and are easy to carry around.
- Low Shedding
Havanese have hypoallergenic coats that don’t shed much. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies who still want a furry friend.
- Intelligent
These dogs are smart and eager to please, which makes training them relatively easy. They quickly learn commands and enjoy interactive games.
- Affectionate
Havanese love to cuddle and be close to their owners. They provide lots of love and companionship, always seeking to be near their family members.
Cons of a Havanese Dog
Here are some cons of a havanese dog:
- Grooming Needs
Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. This can be time-consuming and may require professional grooming.
- Separation Anxiety
Havanese can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They need constant companionship and can become stressed when isolated.
- Exercise Requirements
Despite their small size, Havanese are quite active and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks and playtime are essential.
- Stubbornness
Sometimes, Havanese can be a bit stubborn, which might require extra patience during training. Consistent and positive reinforcement is key.
- Health Issues
Havanese are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor their health.
- Barking
Havanese can be vocal and may bark frequently, especially if they are bored or anxious. Training can help manage excessive barking but may require effort.
| Pros | Cons |
| Gentle and affectionate | High grooming needs |
| Good with children and family | Prone to dental issues |
| Intelligent and trainable | Can be prone to separation and anxiety |
| Hypoallergenic coat | Require regular socialization |
| Adaptable to apartment living | May be reserved with strangers |
Who Should Own a Havanese?
Havanese dogs are ideal for those who want a small, friendly, and affectionate companion. They thrive on human interaction and are great for families, singles, and seniors alike. However, they do require regular grooming and plenty of attention.
- Someone who has kids and wants a gentle and playful breed which is great with kids.
- Individuals who live in small apartments since Havanese don’t need large yards to be happy.
- People who have allergies because Havanese have hypoallergenic coats.
- Active Individuals who want to enjoy daily walks and playtime with their dogs.
- Those who are home frequently and can give Havanese lots of attention.
Who Should Not Own a Havanese?
Havanese dogs are affectionate and social, but they are not suitable for everyone. They need a lot of attention, regular grooming, and exercise. If you can’t meet these needs, a Havanese might not be the right choice for you.
- If you work long hours and are away from home often, a Havanese can suffer from separation anxiety and loneliness.
- Someone who can’t afford giving their pet regular grooming and care.
- Individuals who don’t go for a walk every day and like to rest instead of playing, a Havanese may not be a good match.
- If you prefer large, less delicate dogs, a Havanese might not meet your expectations.
- Those who live in noisy areas because Havanese can be sensitive to loud noises and may not feel comfortable in a very noisy environment.
Havanese Quiz: Is a Havanese Right for Me?
Answer the quiz below and read the scoring instructions at the end to find out if a Havanese is the right fit for you!
Personal Experiences
Several people had Havanese as pets and shared some pros and cons of owning them. Here are top two reviews:
Havanese are lovely, small, and shy around strangers. But they’re social with humans they know and love playing with them. However, they’re a bit harder to potty train, but we dealt with it positively and with regular training.
Maddie Martin
Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They’re intelligent, trainable, and adaptable to various living situations. Their silky long coat requires long grooming.
Natalie Carson