If you’re looking for one of the best small dogs breed that combines charm, intelligence, and a hypoallergenic coat, the Havanese is an outstanding choice. Known for their fluffy coat, friendly disposition, and adaptability, Havanese have become a favorite in many households worldwide. This article will explore everything about the Havanese, including its history, physical characteristics, temperament, training tips, grooming needs, health concerns, and more — perfect for anyone interested in a little dogs breed or miniature dog breeds that shine in companionship and cuteness.
History and Origins
The Havanese originated in Cuba and is often called the national dog of the country. Descended from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana, the breed’s roots trace back to the Bichon family of dogs. These dogs were brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 1500s and bred as companion dogs for Cuban aristocrats. Their presence in aristocratic circles helped maintain the breed’s popularity and careful breeding through centuries.
Unfortunately, political upheaval and war in the 20th century nearly led to the breed’s extinction. Fortunately, some dedicated breeders preserved the bloodline by relocating some dogs to the United States and Europe. Today, the Havanese is recognized globally by kennel clubs and continues to be one of the top picks for small dogs breed enthusiasts.
Physical Appearance
The Havanese is unmistakable with its long, flowing coat, lively eyes, and expressive face. Despite its small size, this breed has a sturdy, balanced build and a springy gait that exudes confidence and happiness.
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Size: 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder
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Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
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Coat: Long, silky, soft, sometimes wavy or curly
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Color: Comes in almost every color imaginable — white, black, cream, gold, chocolate, blue, and more. Parti-color coats are common.
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Tail: Curled over the back, adding to the breed’s charming silhouette
This small yet sturdy dog comfortably fits into the miniature dog breeds category and stands out due to its beautiful coat and adorable appearance, making it one of the cute small dog breeds you can find.
Temperament: Friendly, Playful, and Intelligent
The Havanese is famous for its lovable personality. They are playful, smart, and incredibly affectionate — traits that make them great family dogs and companions.
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Social: They thrive on human interaction and bond strongly with their owners.
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Playful: Their joyful spirit makes playtime fun, but they can also relax and cuddle.
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Intelligent: Easy to train and quick to learn new commands and tricks.
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Gentle: Great with children and other pets, making them a safe choice for families.
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Alert: Though friendly, they are good watchdogs and will alert owners to strangers without excessive barking, aligning them with quiet small dog breeds.
Because of their adaptable and balanced temperament, they are also considered among the calm small dog breeds suitable for apartment living or houses with limited space.
Training Your Havanese
Training a Havanese is typically a smooth process, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Positive reinforcement methods work best, including treats, praise, and play.
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Start early with socialization to expose them to various people, pets, and environments.
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Use short, fun training sessions to keep their attention.
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Havanese dogs are known for separation anxiety, so crate training and gradually increasing alone time are recommended.
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They excel at obedience training and can even participate in dog sports such as agility and tricks.
For common behavior tips, check out how to train a puppy not to bark.
Grooming: Keeping That Silky Coat in Top Shape
The Havanese’s coat is one of its most distinguishing features but also requires diligent care. Without regular maintenance, their fur can easily mat and tangle.
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Brushing: Ideally daily or every other day to prevent mats. Using a pin brush and comb works well.
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Bathing: Every 2 to 4 weeks depending on activity level and environment. Use a gentle shampoo to maintain softness.
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Trimming: Regular trims every 6–8 weeks help keep the coat manageable and prevent overgrowth.
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Ears and Nails: Regular cleaning of ears and nail trimming prevent infections and discomfort.
Since they are small dog breeds that don’t shed, the Havanese is popular with allergy sufferers. Their low dander production classifies them among hypoallergenic small dogs, although no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic.
You can also check our full guide on grooming small dogs.
Exercise and Activity Level
Although small, Havanese are active and energetic. They enjoy daily exercise but don’t require intense workouts.
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Walks: A couple of short walks (20–30 minutes each) daily satisfy their exercise needs.
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Play: Interactive toys, fetch, or puzzle games stimulate their minds.
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Indoor Activity: They can get sufficient exercise playing indoors, which makes them great for apartment dwellers.
Their activity level complements their standing as calm small dog breeds, happy with moderate exercise but always ready to play and engage.
Health and Lifespan
Generally, Havanese are a healthy breed with a lifespan ranging from 14 to 16 years. However, as with all breeds, some health concerns are possible:
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Common Conditions: Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, cataracts, heart murmurs, and liver shunts.
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Dental Health: Due to their small mouths, dental issues are common, so regular teeth cleaning is essential.
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Regular Vet Care: Routine vet visits and a balanced diet can prevent many health issues.
For night stress or anxiety, see tips for dog whining at night.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hypoallergenic, low shedding | High grooming needs and coat maintenance |
| Friendly, social, and great with families | Can suffer from separation anxiety |
| Intelligent and easy to train | Requires daily brushing to prevent mats |
| Adaptable to many living environments | May need patience with grooming and handling |
| Quiet indoors but alert to strangers | Sensitive to stress and change |
Is the Havanese Right for You?
The Havanese is a wonderful choice if you want a small dogs breed that is affectionate, smart, and allergy-friendly. Their moderate energy level and trainability make them perfect for various lifestyles — from singles and seniors to families with children.
If you prefer calm small dog breeds that fit comfortably in apartments but still want a playful, cute small dog breed that loves attention, the Havanese checks all the boxes. Their hypoallergenic coat adds to their appeal, especially for those sensitive to pet dander.
Quick Breed Facts:
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 8.5 – 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 7 – 13 pounds |
| Coat | Long, silky, low shedding |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Temperament | Friendly, intelligent, calm |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 14 – 16 years |
| Grooming | High, daily brushing recommended |
| Kid-Friendly | Excellent |
| Apartment Friendly | Very good |
Final Thoughts
The Havanese is truly one of the most lovable and adaptable small dogs breed available. Their combination of gentle temperament, intelligence, and low-shedding coat make them ideal for many dog lovers, especially those looking for hypoallergenic small dogs.
Whether you want a calm small dog breed for quiet companionship or a playful, cute small dog breed that fits in your cozy home, the Havanese is a top contender among miniature dog breeds. With love, care, and attention, they will be a loyal and joyful member of your family for over a decade.
