Last Updated: 11/03/2026
Havanese Breed Guide
Thinking of a Havanese? Our breed guide covers facts, health, and care.
Author: Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 5 minutes - short read
The Havanese is a cheerful, small companion known for its long, silky coat and lively personality. They are incredibly social and thrive on being part of every family activity, making them excellent pets for those who can spend plenty of time with them. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and they benefit from dental care and high-quality nutrition tailored to their small size.
All about Havanese
Place of origin
Cuba
Weight range
3-7kg
Breed size
Small
Height range
23-28cm
Breed group
Toy
Life expectancy
14-16 years
Coat colours
Variety (Cream, Gold, Silver, Black, Particolour)
Grooming needs
High
Coat type
Long/Silky
Health issues
Patellar Luxation; Eye issues
Shedding factor
Low
Exercise needs
Moderate
Play style
Lively/Social
Housing needs
Adaptable/Appartment friendly
Trainability
High
Social needs
High
Family suitability
Excellent
Tendency to bark
Moderate
Nutrition
Providing a Havanese with high-quality, balanced nutrition is vital for maintaining their lush coat and supporting their high energy levels. A diet specifically formulated for small breeds ensures they receive the correct calorie density and nutrient ratios for their fast metabolism.
Best food for adult Havanese
When choosing food for an adult Havanese, owners should look for diets that support skin and coat health through enriched levels of omega fatty acids. Because this breed is prone to dental issues, a dental kibble that is specifically shaped and textured to provide mechanical cleaning of the teeth is highly beneficial. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight is important to reduce the strain on their small joints, so look for formulas with high-quality proteins and controlled fat levels.
What to look for
Small-sized kibble designed for mechanical dental cleaning to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Highly digestible proteins and prebiotic fibres to support optimal gastrointestinal health and smaller stools.
High levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support a long, silky, and healthy coat.
Best food for Havanese puppies
Havanese puppies require a nutrient-dense diet that supports their rapid growth and brain development during the first year of life. Look for formulas containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an essential fatty acid found in mother's milk, which is crucial for cognitive function and vision development. The kibble should be very small to suit their tiny mouths and fragile baby teeth, making it easier for them to chew and digest their meals comfortably.
What to look for
Added DHA to support healthy brain and vision development in growing puppies.
Targeted calcium and phosphorus levels to support the healthy development of small bones and joints.
Antioxidant-rich ingredients like Vitamin E and C to support a developing immune system.
Flea & worming
Consistent flea and worming prevention is essential to protect Havanese from skin irritations and internal parasites. Due to their long coats, identifying fleas early can be difficult, making year-round preventative treatment even more important.
Best flea and worming treatments for Havanese
For the Havanese, a comprehensive preventative that covers fleas, heartworm, and intestinal worms is the most convenient and effective option. Owners should choose products that are specifically weight-rated for small dogs, typically in the 3kg to 7kg range, to ensure accurate dosing.
What to look for
Easy-to-administer formats such as tasty chews or quick-drying spot-ons for owner convenience.
Weight-appropriate dosing specifically designed for small dogs between 3kg and 7kg.
All-in-one protection that covers fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms, and ideally ticks.
Health
Selecting appropriate health products helps manage breed-specific predispositions and ensures the Havanese remains comfortable throughout their long life.
Products to keep Havanese healthy
Given their tendency toward dental disease, daily oral care products like water additives, dental treats, toothbrushes and toothpastes are highly recommended. For those Havanese prone to tear staining on their light-coloured fur, gentle eye cleansers can help keep the face clean and reduce irritation. Additionally, joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial as they age, helping to support cartilage health and mobility in their knees and hips.
What to look for
Dental care products such as toothbrushes and toothpastes to prevent periodontal disease.
Gentle eye wipes or cleansers to manage tear staining and maintain hygiene around the face.
Joint support supplements with omega fatty acids and glucosamine for long-term mobility.
Training and activity
Choosing the right toys and walking gear is important for providing mental stimulation and ensuring the safety of this spirited little breed.
Best toys for Havanese
Havanese are clever dogs that enjoy problem-solving, so interactive puzzle toys and treat-dispensing gadgets are excellent for keeping their minds occupied. They also have a strong "retrieving" instinct and often enjoy soft, plush toys that are small enough for them to carry around the house. Because they are social players, toys that encourage engagement between the owner and the dog, such as lightweight fetch balls or small tug ropes, are always a hit.
What to look for
Lightweight fetch toys that allow them to burn off energy without overexerting their small frames.
Interactive puzzle toys to satisfy their high intelligence and need for mental engagement.
Small, soft plush toys that are appropriately sized for their small mouths and gentle play.
Best harnesses, collars and walking accessories for Havanese
A well-fitted harness is much safer for a Havanese than a standard collar, as it prevents pressure on their delicate trachea and neck. Lightweight leashes are preferred to ensure the weight of the clip doesn't weigh down the dog's neck during walks. Reflective materials or LED attachments are also useful additions for evening strolls, ensuring these small dogs remain visible to others at all times.
What to look for
Lightweight leads with small, sturdy clips that won't weigh down a small breed.
Adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit through their thick, long coat without causing matting.
A step-in or Y-shaped harness to distribute pressure away from the neck and throat.
Grooming
The Havanese has a unique coat that requires specific tools to maintain its beauty and prevent painful skin issues caused by matting.
Best grooming products for Havanese
Because the Havanese coat is hair rather than fur, it can grow quite long and tangles easily, requiring a high-quality slicker brush and a metal comb for daily maintenance. Pin brushes are excellent for regular sessions to keep the coat flowing, while a detangling spray can make the process much more comfortable for the dog. Regular bathing with a soap-free, moisturising shampoo is also necessary to keep the skin hydrated and the long "tresses" looking their best.
What to look for
Detangling sprays or coat conditioners to help remove knots without causing discomfort or breakage.
A high-quality slicker brush and metal finishing comb to reach through the long coat to the skin.
Gentle, soap-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain the silky texture and skin hydration.
Sleep and home
Creating a comfortable and secure home environment is essential for a breed that values being a constant part of the family circle.
Best beds for Havanese
Havanese generally enjoy "denning," so a plush, bolstered bed with raised edges provides them with a sense of security and a comfortable place to rest their heads. Because they are small and can feel the cold, beds with self-warming materials or soft, faux-fur linings are particularly popular. Since they often follow their owners from room to room, having a lightweight, portable bed or a dedicated furniture protector can help them feel at home wherever you are in the house.
What to look for
Bolstered edges or "donut" styles that provide a sense of security and a comfortable headrest.
Removable, machine-washable covers to make maintaining a clean sleeping environment easy.
Soft, plush fabrics like faux fur that offer warmth and comfort for their small bodies.
Havanese FAQ
