Havapoo Breed Information
The Havapoo is a hybrid dog breed that results from breeding a Havanese and a Poodle. This designer breed is known for its cute appearance, friendly personality, and high intelligence, making it a popular choice for pet owners.
Havapoos typically weigh between 10 to 20 pounds and reach a height of 8 to 15 inches at the shoulder. They have a round face, floppy ears, and a curly or wavy coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, cream, and apricot.
The Havapoo is an affectionate and social breed that loves to be around people and other animals. They are easy to train and make excellent family pets, as they are gentle and playful with children. Their high intelligence also makes them ideal for first-time dog owners and those who enjoy participating in dog sports, such as agility and obedience training.
This breed requires regular grooming to maintain the health and appearance of its coat. They are also a low-shedding breed, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Doodle Hybrid / Poodle crossed with a Havanese
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimum
TRAINING
Responsive
TEMPERAMENT
Intelligent, Cuddly, Affectionate
ADULT WEIGHT
8-20 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
LIFE SPAN
10-14 yrs
Characteristics
- Havapoos are known for their loving and affectionate personality, making them excellent family pets. They love to be around people and other animals, and they thrive on attention and affection.
- The Havapoo is a highly intelligent breed that is easy to train and excels in obedience and agility sports.
- They are quick learners and enjoy pleasing their owners, making training an enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.
- Havapoos are considered to be a low-shedding doodle breed, which makes them an excellent choice for people with allergies. Their curly or wavy coat helps to trap any loose hair, reducing the amount of shedding and dander in the home.
- The Havapoo's coat is relatively low-maintenance and requires regular brushing and clipping to keep it in good condition. They are not heavy shedders, making them easy to groom and maintain.
- Despite their small size, Havapoos are playful and energetic dogs that enjoy playing and running. They are great for families with children and active individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors.
- Havapoos are highly adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living environments, including apartments, homes with small yards, and rural areas. They are comfortable in both urban and suburban settings, making them a great choice for people who live in different types of living environments.
- Havapoos are known for their gentle and playful nature with children, making them an excellent choice for families with kids. They are friendly, affectionate, and patient, making them a great playmate for children of all ages.
Appearance
The Havapoo is a distinctive and adorable hybrid breed that combines the best physical characteristics of its Havanese and Poodle parents. Typically weighing between 10 to 20 pounds and standing 9 to 14 inches tall, the Havapoo is a compact and well-proportioned dog.
One of the most defining features of the Havapoo is its coat, which is soft, silky, and can range from curly to wavy. Coat colors can include black, white, cream, brown, silver, and gray, and the breed is known for being low-shedding and hypoallergenic.
The Havapoo has a round and expressive face, with floppy ears and a long, elegant neck. Its body is sturdy and well-balanced, and its tail is feathered and kept puffy for an added touch of cuteness.
With its adorable face, silky coat, and compact size, the Havapoo is the perfect pet for families, seniors, and pet owners who are looking for a low-maintenance companion.
Temperament
The Havapoo is a well-balanced and affectionate breed that is known for its delightful temperament. This crossbreed combines the best traits of both parent breeds, creating a dog that is friendly, intelligent, and easy to train.
Havapoos are known for their love of people and their desire to be close to their owners. They are affectionate, cuddly, and love to be held and hugged. This makes them a great choice for families with children, as well as singles looking for a companion to snuggle with.
Despite their small size, Havapoos are lively and playful, and they enjoy being active. They are quick learners and eager to please, making them a breeze to train. They are also intelligent, and they enjoy puzzles and other mental challenges.
Havapoos are also known for their adaptability and their ability to thrive in a variety of environments. Whether you live in an apartment or on a farm, Havapoos can easily adjust and make themselves at home. They are also great travel companions and enjoy going on walks and adventures with their owners.
Overall, the Havapoo is a well-rounded breed that is a joy to be around. With their loving and friendly temperament, Havapoos are a great choice for those looking for a companion that is both intelligent and affectionate.
Care
Grooming
The Havapoo is a charming and lovable breed known for their playful and affectionate nature. These dogs have a hypoallergenic coat that is soft, silky and does not shed much, making them a great choice for pet owners with allergies. However, it is important to keep their coat well-groomed to maintain its appearance and texture.
Here are the key points to keep in mind when grooming your Havapoo:
Brushing: Regular brushing is a crucial aspect of grooming for the Havapoo. The frequency of brushing depends on the length and texture of their coat. Brushing helps to remove any loose hair, prevent tangles and keep the coat in good condition. It is recommended to brush the Havapoo at least once a week, and more often if their coat is longer.
Trimming: To keep the Havapoo's coat looking neat and tidy, it is important to trim it every few months. Trimming is an effective way to remove any knots, tangles, and mats, and to prevent the coat from getting too long and cumbersome. You can take your Havapoo to a professional groomer, or if you're experienced, you can trim their coat at home.
Bathing: Havapoos do not require frequent bathing, but it is important to bathe them every 4 to 8 weeks or as needed. A regular bath can help to keep their coat clean and free from any dirt, debris, and odors. It is essential to use a high-quality dog shampoo that is gentle on their skin, and to make sure that their coat is thoroughly rinsed and dried after the bath.
Ear Cleaning: Cleaning the inside of the Havapoo's ears is an important aspect of grooming that should be done regularly. Dirty ears can lead to infections, so it is important to keep them clean and dry. A damp cloth can be used to gently wipe the inside of their ears, and the ears should be dried thoroughly after baths and swims.
Teeth Cleaning: Keeping the Havapoo's teeth clean and healthy is essential for their overall well-being. Brushing their teeth regularly, and providing them with dental chews and toys, can help to remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. This can help to prevent gum disease and other oral health problems.
Exercise Needs
The Havapoo is an energetic and lively breed that requires moderate exercise to maintain its physical and mental well-being. With their small size, they are ideal pets for apartment living, but they still need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
This breed loves to play and needs a regular outlet for its energy. Whether it's a brisk walk around the block, a game of fetch in the park, or a run in the backyard, the Havapoo needs to stretch its legs and burn off some energy each day.
In addition to physical activity, Havapoo dogs also benefit from mental stimulation. Interactive toys, puzzle games, and obedience training can help keep their minds active and sharp.
The Havapoo's exercise needs are relatively moderate, making these dogs a great choice for those who want a small dog that's active and lively, but not too demanding. With a daily dose of physical and mental stimulation, the Havapoo will be a happy, healthy, and well-behaved companion.
Health
The Havapoo is a hardy and generally healthy breed. However, like all breeds, the Havapoo is prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of.
One of the most common health concerns in the Havapoo is patellar luxation, which is a condition where the knee cap dislodges from its proper position. This can cause pain but this can be surgically corrected if necessary.
Havapoos are also prone to certain dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, so it's important to provide them with regular dental care and to brush their teeth regularly.
To help ensure the health and well-being of the Havapoo, it's important to purchase a pup from a reputable breeder who has tested the parent breeds for genetic health issues.
Lifespan
The Havapoo is a relatively long-lived breed with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. These dogs are known for their strong genetic makeup and good health, which allows them to live a long and active life. However, just like all living creatures, there are certain factors that can affect the lifespan of the Havapoo.
One of the most important factors that can impact the lifespan of the Havapoo is genetics. Dogs that come from healthy parents are more likely to live longer and be healthier than dogs from parents with genetic issues. It is important to purchase a Havapoo from a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for genetic diseases and disorders.
Another factor that can impact the lifespan of the Havapoo is their diet and nutrition. A balanced and nutritious diet can help to keep the Havapoo healthy and maintain a healthy weight, which can help to prevent health problems and extend their lifespan.
The environment in which the Havapoo lives can also impact their lifespan. A safe and comfortable living environment can help to keep the Havapoo healthy and prevent accidents and injuries. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization are also essential to keep the Havapoo healthy and extend their lifespan.
Training
Training your Havapoo can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind when training your Havapoo:
- Positive Reinforcement: Havapoos respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and affection. Using these methods can help to build a strong bond between you and your pet, and motivate them to learn and behave well
- Consistency: Consistency is key when training your Havapoo. Establish a routine for training sessions and stick to it to help your pet learn more effectively
- Patience: Training your Havapoo can take time and patience, so be prepared to be patient and persistent. It's important to avoid harsh punishments and instead focus on positive reinforcement methods to encourage good behavior
- Socialization: Havapoos are social dogs, so it's important to start socialization training early in their life. Exposing them to new people, environments, and experiences can help to build their confidence and reduce their fear of unfamiliar situations
- Basic Commands: Teaching your Havapoo basic commands, such as "sit," "stay," and "come," can help to establish rules and structure in your home. These commands can also be helpful in everyday situations, such as when you need your pet to stay calm in public places
- Potty Training: Potty training is an essential part of training your Havapoo. With patience and consistency, your pet can learn to go potty in designated areas and avoid accidents in your home
- Advanced Training: Havapoos are intelligent dogs and can learn advanced training techniques, such as agility and obedience. These activities can be fun for both you and your pet and can also help to keep their minds stimulated and active
History
The Havapoo is a charming hybrid dog breed that was created by crossbreeding a Havanese and a Poodle. The exact origins of the breed are not well documented, but it is believed to have first appeared in the United States in the late 20th century.
Since its inception, the Havapoo has gained popularity as a beloved family pet and companion dog. This is due in part to its friendly and affectionate personality, as well as its hypoallergenic and low-shedding coat. This unique combination of traits makes the Havapoo an ideal choice for families, seniors, and pet owners who are looking for a small and low-maintenance companion.
Despite being a relatively new breed, the Havapoo has already established a reputation for being highly intelligent and adaptable. These dogs are quick learners and eager to please, making them great candidates for obedience and agility training. Additionally, the Havapoo's small size and playful personality make it a popular choice for families with children, as well as seniors and people living in small apartments.