Avonlea Havanese (2024)

FAQs

What two dogs make up a Havanese? ›

It is believed that the Blanquito was eventually cross-bred with other bichon types, including the poodle, to create what is now known as the Havanese. They are sometimes referred to as "Havana Silk Dogs", but this is a separate breed, which has been bred to meet the original Cuban standards.

Average lifespan

The average life expectancy for a Havanese is 14.5 years with the typical lifespan ranging from 13 to 16 years old. Females tend to live about a year longer than male Havanese. These cute little dogs can live longer than their average lifespan with the right amount of care, proper exercise, and diet.

Even then, the breeders spent loads on caring for their puppies. No wonder to this date there are many expenses concerning the purchase and care of Havanese breeds. These in include medical insurance, grooming, vaccination, etc. Even so, the average cost of purchasing a purebred Havanese puppy is about $3500-$5000.

A 6-month-old Havanese puppy will be at their adult size or close to it. Male and female Havanese puppies may weigh between 6 to 8 pounds at six months old and will likely already be at their adult height, typically between 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall.

The Havanese is a great family dog, and their loyal, lovable nature means they often form strong attachments to their pet parents. Unfortunately, this does mean the breed can suffer from separation anxiety, and they don't like to be left on their own for long periods of time.

The Havanese dog is smart, spirited, and highly trainable. They make good watch dogs but may bark excessively if not properly trained.

Havanese should be fed twice a day because their small size makes it difficult for their blood sugar to stay at the right level if they are only fed once. You should confer with your vet as to the amount of food that will keep your dog at a healthy weight.

Known as the “Longevity Survey,” it answered the question of how many years Havanese actually lived. The answer turned out to be quite surprising, but posed many additional questions! That survey included 512 mostly AKC registered Havanese, going out in age to almost 19 years.

Like most small dogs, Havanese will likely live for well over a decade. In fact, the average Havanese lifespan is 14 to 16 years — and some of them can live even longer than this. If you get a Havanese dog as a puppy, be prepared for a long life with your new companion. Fur.

Havanese are very people-oriented dogs, love snuggling in laps, and can be overly dependent – they don't do well at all when left for long periods of time without companionship. "Not doing well" means unhappiness and boredom, which they may try to vent through barking and destructive chewing.

Is it better to have one Havanese or two? ›

There is nothing and I mean nothing like more than one Havanese. As an owner of seven, well, it is far better than TV. Each has their jobs, pack position and unique personality that they bring to the pack. An effective pack (more than 1) will compliment, help and yes even need and want 'one on one' time from you.

Comfort and Stress Relief Through Licking

Licking releases endorphins in dogs, which can help them feel calmer and more relaxed. If your Havanese is licking themselves or you excessively, it might be a way for them to cope with anxiety or stress.

Black is one of the most common coat colors for Havanese dogs. A Havanese can be solid black or black combined with other colors. Two other American Kennel Club standard colors with black are black and silver and black and tan.

Female Havanese may be a bit more territorial and dominant than males. Overall, both sexes have the same fun-loving and good-natured personalities. You may notice females being a bit more demanding of your attention and may show a little more attitude if she does not get what she wants.

Puppies typically begin to calm down around 12-18 months of age, although it varies depending on the breed and individual temperament. Consistent training, exercise, and mental stimulation can help manage your puppy's energy levels.

The result of cross-breeding poodles to the Blanquito was a slightly larger dog of various colors, but retaining the silky coat and Bichon type. That dog is the Havanese, the Cuban interpretation of the Bichon lapdogs from Europe.

Physical Traits

The Havanese dog breed has a rounded face and floppy ears with a recognizable tail that is high and arches up and over their back. Their frame is even tinier than it appears as it's often hidden under a long fur coat. They stand up to 11 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 7 and 13 pounds.

History of the Havanese

The Havanese is an old breed from the bichon family. Originally, Tenerife dogs came to Cuba with Spanish farmers and noblemen in the early 1500s. These dogs developed into the Havanese with little, if any, outside influences. In Havana, the breed became a family pet.

The crown jewels have nothing on these fabulous little guys! The origin of the Bichon Frise can be traced back to the Water Spaniel and Standard Poodle, among other small white breeds of dog around this time.