Who this breed is NOT for
Anyone gone long hours (they bond hard) or unwilling to commit to regular grooming.
Bred to do
Cuba's national dog — a bichon-type companion bred to be a cheerful, adaptable family lapdog.
Exercise needs
Moderate — daily short walks and play. Lively and playful but easily satisfied; adaptable to most homes.
Temperament
Cheerful, affectionate, sociable, and people-loving — one of the friendliest, most adaptable small breeds. Bonds closely; dislikes being alone. Smart and trainable.
Trainability
High — clever, eager to please, and food-motivated; one of the more trainable toys and a frequent trick-dog. Housetraining takes some patience.
With kids & pets
Excellent with both — gentle, friendly, and sturdy-ish for their size. A great family and first-timer small dog.
Living situation
Excellent apartment and family dog — adaptable and content indoors. Main need is company; prone to separation distress.
Grooming & shedding
Low-shedding silky coat that needs regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting (many keep a shorter cut). A real grooming commitment.
Health & costs
Generally healthy and long-lived. Watch luxating patellas, eye conditions, hip issues, and dental disease. Budget grooming plus dental care.
Best fit
Almost any home — families, first-timers, seniors, apartments — wanting a cheerful, affectionate, trainable small companion who'll keep up with grooming.
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A note from Kerri
Havanese are one of the loveliest small companions out there — happy, friendly, trainable, and adaptable to almost any home. The two commitments are grooming and company: keep up the coat, and don't leave them alone all day. Do that and they're a joy.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Casfuy 2-Speed Electric Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinder
A quiet, rechargeable nail grinder that provides a gentle alternative to clippers for at-home nail maintenance.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
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Virbac C.E.T. Dual-Ended Dog Toothbrush
A soft-bristled brush with a small head is ideal for the final stage of the week-by-week plan to reach the outer surfaces of the teeth.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
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Safari Pet Products Double Row Flea Comb
An essential tool for early flea detection and removal to prevent infestations from spreading to your home and other household pets.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.