Havanese Havanese

Havanese

6
Outgoing Funny Intelligent Affectionate

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.

Havanese Quick Facts

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

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Available Havaneses

Booker
Baby
Booker
S

Havanese

TLC K9 Rescue · Escondido, CA
Bedtime
Adult

Havanese / Mixed

Doggie Protective Services · Romoland, CA
Leon
Young
Leon
S

Shih Tzu / Havanese

Miami-Dade Animal Services · Miami, FL
Spunky
Young
Spunky
S

Havanese

Alaskan Animal Rescue Friends · Anchorage, AK
Ice Cream
Baby

Australian Cattle Dog / Havanese

PA Caring For K-9's · New Oxford, PA
Candy
Baby
Candy
M

Australian Cattle Dog / Havanese

PA Caring For K-9's · New Oxford, PA
Alonso
Baby 1
Alonso
L

Labrador Retriever / Havanese

Snarr Northeast Animal Rescue · Brewster, NY
Dexter
Adult
Dexter
S

Maltese / Havanese

A Caring Place All Breed Dog Rescue · Westmont, IL

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Havanese?
The Havanese is known for being outgoing, funny, intelligent and affectionate.
How many Havaneses are available for adoption?
There are currently 18 Havaneses available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Havanese from Puplister?
To adopt a Havanese, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.