Chihuahua vs Havanese

Which dog breed is right for you?

Chihuahua

Size
3–6 lbs, 5–8 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Charming Alert Devoted

Havanese

Size
7–13 lbs, 9–12 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Outgoing Funny Intelligent Affectionate

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the world's smallest dog breed, originating from the Mexican state of Chihuahua where ancestors of the breed were kept by the ancient Toltec civilization. Standing just 5–8 inches tall and weighing a mere 2–6 pounds, these tiny dogs come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties with virtually every color and pattern combination imaginable. Despite their diminutive size, Chihuahuas carry themselves with a bold, terrier-like confidence that belies their fragile frame.

Temperament & Personality

Chihuahuas are fiercely devoted to one person — often forming an almost obsessive bond with their chosen human. They are alert, spirited, and surprisingly courageous, frequently standing up to dogs many times their size without hesitation. While they can be wonderful companions for older children who handle them gently, their small size and tendency toward snappiness make them a poor match for households with toddlers.

Pros

  • Perfect apartment dogs — minimal space and exercise requirements
  • Exceptionally long lifespan of 14–18 years, among the longest of any breed
  • Portable size makes them easy travel companions for on-the-go owners
  • Low food costs and minimal grooming needs — especially the smooth-coat variety

Cons

  • Prone to patellar luxation, heart murmurs, hydrocephalus, and dental overcrowding
  • Fragile bones — easily injured by falls, rough play, or being stepped on
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak due to tiny bladders and stubborn temperament
  • Tendency toward excessive barking and aggression toward strangers if not properly socialized

Discover your perfect pint-sized companion — explore Chihuahuas looking for forever homes right here on Puplister.

About the Havanese

The Havanese — Cuba's only native breed — descended from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana and was the cherished lapdog of Havana's aristocracy for centuries before Cuban refugees brought them to America in the 1960s. Standing 8.5–11.5 inches tall and weighing 7–13 pounds, these small but sturdy dogs have a long, silky, lightweight coat that comes in every color imaginable — including white, cream, gold, black, silver, chocolate, and various parti-color combinations. Their coat is designed to insulate against tropical heat rather than cold, giving it a uniquely airy, flowing quality.

Temperament & Personality

Havanese are cheerful, outgoing, and deeply people-oriented — natural entertainers who thrive on being the center of attention. They are remarkably adaptable and sociable, getting along effortlessly with children, other dogs, cats, and even strangers who receive a warm, tail-wagging welcome. Their playful, clownish nature and expressive faces make them exceptional companion dogs — they're sometimes called "velcro dogs" for their habit of following their owners everywhere.

Pros

  • Low-shedding coat is well-suited for allergy-sensitive households
  • Excellent with children and other pets — gentle, patient, and playful
  • Highly trainable and eager to please — respond well to positive reinforcement
  • Adaptable to any living situation — equally happy in apartments or homes with yards

Cons

  • Long coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent matting
  • Prone to severe separation anxiety — can become destructive or develop excessive barking when left alone
  • Susceptible to patellar luxation, cataracts, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
  • Can be difficult to housebreak — small bladder and sensitive temperament complicate training

Bring the sunshine of Havana into your home — find Havanese dogs waiting for families on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Chihuahua and a Havanese?
The Chihuahua is 3–6 lbs, 5–8 in sized while the Havanese is 7–13 lbs, 9–12 in sized. They differ in size (3–6 lbs, 5–8 in vs 7–13 lbs, 9–12 in), lifespan (14–16 years vs 14–16 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Chihuahua or Havanese?
Chihuahua is not typically good with kids. Havanese is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Chihuahua or Havanese?
The Chihuahua has a lifespan of 14–16 years while the Havanese has a lifespan of 14–16 years.

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