What is the temperament of a Havanese?

Havaneses are known to be affectionate, responsive, playful, companionable, gentle, intelligent, funny, friendly, curious, smart, loyal, independent, athletic, protective, affection motivated. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Havanese need?

Havaneses are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Havanese?

Havaneses require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Havanese?

Havaneses have moderate trainability and benefit from consistent, positive training approaches.

Are Havaneses good with children?

Havaneses are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Havanese unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Havanese stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from Kuba, specialized companion qualities. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Havanese?

Before bringing a Havanese into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (4/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Havanese. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Havaneses originally bred for?

Havaneses were originally bred for companionship. This companion-focused breeding has resulted in their affectionate, people-oriented temperament that makes them excellent pets. As part of the Toy group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Havanese's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Havaneses are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Havaneses typically live?

The average lifespan of a Havanese is 14 - 15 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Havaneses may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Havanese

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Affectionate, Responsive, Playful, Companionable, Gentle, Intelligent, Funny, Friendly, Curious, Smart, Loyal, Independent, Athletic, Protective, Affection Motivated

Weight

7 - 13 lbs

Height

8.5 - 11.5 inches

Life Span

14 - 15 years

Breed Group

Toy

Bred For

Companionship

Origin

Kuba

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability3/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs4/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements4/5

They have high grooming needs requiring frequent brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability3/5

Moderately trainable with consistent methods

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Havanese Guide

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Overview

About the Havanese

The Havanese is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Companionship

Temperament

Affectionate, Responsive, Playful, Companionable, Gentle, Intelligent, Funny, Friendly, Curious, Smart, Loyal, Independent, Athletic, Protective, Affection Motivated

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We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

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Havanese

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