Havanese vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

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

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Size
24–38 lbs, 14–16 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Brave Affectionate Reliable Intelligent

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.

About the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in 19th-century England's Staffordshire region from crosses between Bulldogs and various terriers, originally bred for bull-baiting and later as a compact, agile fighting dog — a history that belies its true nature as a devoted family companion. These muscular, athletic dogs stand 14 to 16 inches tall and weigh 24 to 38 pounds, packed with surprising strength and agility in a compact frame. Their smooth, short coat comes in red, fawn, white, black, blue, or brindle — with or without white markings.

Temperament & Personality

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are affectionate, courageous, and remarkably gentle with people — earning the nickname "nanny dog" in England for their extraordinary patience and devotion to children. They adore human companionship, are playful well into adulthood, and form intensely loyal bonds with their families. While they can be assertive with other dogs, proper socialization from puppyhood typically produces a confident, well-adjusted adult that gets along with everyone.

Pros

  • Exceptionally affectionate and gentle with children and family members
  • Compact, muscular build well-suited for smaller homes and apartments
  • Low-maintenance coat requiring only occasional brushing
  • Brave and loyal — a devoted companion that thrives on human interaction

Cons

  • Can be dog-aggressive without careful socialization and management
  • Breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many jurisdictions
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, L-2 hydroxyglutaric aciduria, and cataracts
  • Strong and powerful — requires owners who can provide firm, consistent leadership

Staffies are among the most devoted family dogs in existence — find a Staffordshire Bull Terrier on Puplister and see for yourself.

Available for Adoption

4

Havaneses

Browse

25

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Havanese and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
The Havanese is 7–13 lbs, 9–12 in sized while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is 24–38 lbs, 14–16 in sized. They differ in size (7–13 lbs, 9–12 in vs 24–38 lbs, 14–16 in), lifespan (14–16 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Havanese or Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
Havanese is generally good with kids. Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Havanese or Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
The Havanese has a lifespan of 14–16 years while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs