Havanese: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

The Havanese is a small breed of dog originally bred in Cuba. They are known for their friendly and playful personalities, as well as their long, silky coats. The Havanese dog breed is beloved by many for its long, expressive eyes, silky hair, and cuddly size. They were bred as companion dogs to the Cuban aristocracy in the 1800s and have earned the nickname “Velcro Dog” because of their close bond with their owner.

The Havanese often participate in agility, obedience, and flyball competitions. They are excellent family dogs that do well with children and other pets. Although they are small, they are not delicate and can be quite sturdy.

Keep reading to learn more about the Havanese breed, including information on their health problems, care, price, feeding, and what to expect when adopting one.

What Is a Havanese?

The Havanese is Cuba's national dog and one of the most adorable toy breeds around. These little guys are smart, affectionate, and always up for a good time. They don't need much space, and they don't require a lot of exercise; they're perfect for city living. If you're looking for a cuddly companion who is always happy to be by your side, the Havanese is the dog for you.

Havanese dogs have long, fluffy coats that can make them appear larger than they actually are. Their bodies are a bit longer than tall, and their tails are set high and arch over their backs.

What Is Havanese Size?

They typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and stand about 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder.

Havanese: Average Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Havanese is 14 years and 5 months. However, they can easily live up to 16 years old with the right kind of care. Females usually outlive males by about a year. These little dogs are full of life and love, and with the right amount of exercise, diet, and attention, they can easily exceed their average lifespan.

How to Take Care of Your Havanese Health?

Havanese dogs are mostly healthy, but like all breeds, they can suffer from certain health conditions more often in their breed. Some of the most common problems seen in Havanese include:

• Hip dysplasia: This condition where the ball and socket joint of the hip doesn't fit together properly, causing pain and lameness.
• Hypothyroidism: With this condition, the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of the hormone thyroxine, which can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and other health problems.
• Patellar luxation: The kneecap pops out of place, causing lameness.

With some of these health conditions, you may not notice any symptoms until your dog is an adult. That's why taking your Havanese to the vet for regular checkups is important so any problems can be caught early and treated.

Here are some tips for keeping your Havanese healthy:

• Although Havanese dogs have longer hair and thus take a bit more time to groom, they don't require as much exercise as other breeds, which helps offset the extra grooming needs. Only 30 minutes to an hour of exercise a day is sufficient.
• Start brushing your Havanese teeth early to get used to it and prevent gum disease.
• Feed your Havanese a high-quality diet to keep them at a healthy weight and provide them with the nutrients they need for good health.

What to Feed Your Havanese?

For the average Havanese dog, eating around one to two cups of dry food in two daily meals is ideal. However, since all Havanese are different, be sure to ask your veterinarian how much food is right for your pup.

Havanese dogs are susceptible to obesity, so their owners should be mindful of how many human foods and treats they give their pets. Havanese dogs love to eat, so it can be difficult to resist their begging faces.

How Much Does a Havanese Cost?

The price of a purebred Havanese can vary greatly depending on their quality. A top show dog could cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500, but a pet-quality dog could be as cheap as $700. So, if you're looking for a lovable and playful Havanese to join your family, be prepared to spend at least 1200 bucks.

Final Thoughts on Havanese

The Havanese is a Toy breed of dog known for its hypoallergenic coat, making it a popular choice for people with allergies. These dogs are also known for their lively and playful personalities, making them great companions for families with children.