Havanese

Grooming Tips

Long-haired Havanese requires daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats. They also require frequent bathing to keep the coat clean. It's not uncommon for a Havanese to get a weekly bath. Tear stains are common on the face of a Havanese, and the face should be wiped daily with a damp rag.Trim nails monthly and check the ears regularly for signs of wax buildup, irritation or infection. Clean the ear with a cotton ball and a veterinarian-approved cleanser. Teeth should be brushed several times per week. Small dogs are prone to dental problems, and regular brushing can help prevent bad teeth later in life.

Exercise Tips

It may be small, but the Havanese has plenty of energy. It’s important to remember that exercise is important to prevent illness and health problems as your dog gets older.Your pupshould partake in a moderate amount of exercise each day. Since it is so small, running around the house is usually as much as this pup needs. As well, take your dog out for regular walks and fresh air.

Feeding Tips

Feed your Havanese a high-quality dry kibble. Instead of frequent small meals, you may choose to let your dog free feed (eat at its own convenience throughout the day).They should be fed a high-qualitydog foodappropriate to his age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some Havanese can be prone to gettingoverweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. If you choose to give yourdog treats, do so in moderation.Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Give table scraps sparingly, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods with high-fat content. Learn about whichhuman foodsare safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.

Health Tips

The Havanese is a long-lived healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 14 to 15 years, and health risks associated with the breed include eye disorders and dry skin.

Trainability

Havanese are highly intelligent and eager to please, and they are easily trained so long as you use only positive methods. This can be a sensitive breed, so care must be taken to not scold them harshly.Socializationfrom an early age is very important.Expose them calmly to a wide variety of new places and new people, always ensuring that the experiences are positive and not intimidating. Gentle, patient training will result in a wonderful companion dog. They are affectionate with people and get along with other nonaggressive pets.

The Havanese is originally from Cuba and it is the only native dog breed of this country. The Havanese was created sometime in the late 1800s to early 1900s, and their ancestors include the Bichon. This breed was developed solely as a lap dog and human companion.