Frequently Asked Questions
Are Havanese Good with Children?
Havanese are wonderful with children if they are well socialized. The Havanese by nature are people lovers and love all of their family members. I choose to have Havanese due to their loving and playful nature. I have two children of my own. All breeds of dogs have their own thing about their nature and genetics. Some of the other breeds similar in size to the Havanese often become attached to a main person in the household and can be very nippy and not social to strangers or other household members.
Are Havanese Good Watchdogs?
I have to chuckle here...If you're looking for a watch dog then the Havanese is not for you. Although one of the only times a Havanese barks is when someone comes to the door, this is merely for the excitement of who is there and who is the next human to love up!!! Havanese are very social and playful but not aggressive to humans.
What is Socialization and Why is it Important?
Havanese were bred as companion dogs. Socialization is the process of introducing puppies to all sorts of circumstances to ensure that they grow up well rounded. Socialization starts with the breeder and continues with the owner. It is important to buy a puppy from a breeder that exposes puppies to people, children, situations, etc. I believe home raised puppies are usually better socialized than kenneled puppies. A puppy that isn't socialized may exhibit behavior problems later on.
Will my Havanese Chew me Out of House and Home??
In my experiences with Havanese I would say that Havs are very controllable on their puppy chewing habits. All you need to do is supply then with their own toys - they love their toys!
I have allergies. I hear that Havanese are hypoallergenic.
There is no such thing as a purely hypoallergenic dog, although some breeders may try and tell you so. There are dogs and cats that have been proven to carry much less dander and allergens. Havanese are known to be one of the best breeds for allergy sufferers. The best thing to do is spend some time around Havanese dogs and decide for yourself. My 8 year old son has severe allergies, including environmental, pet and food. He lives in harmony without any ill effects from our Havanese. I have never heard of any person with an allergy to react to a Havanese.
Do Havanese Shed?
Havanese do not shed, but they do lose hair, just as humans do. Regular brushing helps to maintain a healthy coat.
How Much Activity Do Havanese Require?
Havanese enjoy exercise and activity, but as dogs go, they are on the low end of requirements. Havanese should have plenty of play time and at least a short walk each day.
I Live in an Apartment, Can a Havanese Adjust to That Lifestyle?
There are many happy apartment dwelling Havanese.
Is the Havanese Coat Difficult to Maintain?
To keep a Havanese in a full coat requires regular brushing. As a young puppy, brushing a few times a week will suffice. Around 6 months of age the adult coat begins to come in and the dog will require a daily brushing until the coat is mature. Many pet owners choose to have their Havanese clipped to ease coat maintenance.
If I am Getting a Pet, Why Must I Sign a Spay/Neuter Contract?
This ensures that unwanted dogs are not produced and it helps to keep dogs out of puppy mills. Breeding needs to be handled by people who understand the dogs, genetics, health problems, and are willing to commit to bettering the breed.
Are Havanese Difficult to House Train?
Havanese are small dogs of the Bichon family. If your family dog growing up was a lab or a shepherd, you may have found house training occurred very easily. This isn't always the case for many small dogs including Bichons. Havanese do take work and consistency to house train. It may take months before your dog is reliable in the house. While potty training is in progress the use of puppy pads will help to ensure there is an area for your lovebug to go to if you are not noticing that he needs to be let outside.
Are Males or Females Better Pets?
Both males and females make wonderful pets. Both are extremely affectionate and make great lap dogs.