Havanese: Coat, grooming, and skin
For Havanese, separate routine coat care from a possible skin problem so discomfort is not mistaken for resistance. Keep the setting and handling predictable, especially if touch or busy movement already raises the dog's tension. Use short, predictable handling sessions and book a groomer or veterinarian when the coat or skin cannot be safely managed. Separate routine coat care from symptom investigation, and change the handling plan if the skin or coat changes.
What the coat clue means for care
Havanese's grooming is recorded as The long, soft, and silky coat of the Havanese needs to be groomed daily to be kept free of mats and tangles. Here, that matters because it changes how much handling, coat care, and gradual conditioning belong in the routine.
A gentler care routine
- Use short, predictable handling sessions and book a groomer or veterinarian when the coat or skin cannot be safely managed.
- Let the grooming note (The long, soft, and silky coat of the Havanese needs to be groomed daily to be kept free of mats and tangles) determine which handling step comes first and how much care is reasonable in one session.
- Separate routine coat care from symptom investigation, and change the handling plan if the skin or coat changes.
Book an appointment if
Escalate for persistent itching, lesions, pain, odour, or sudden coat change.
If this may be a health problem
This page is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Do not change food, medication, exercise, or care for an individual dog based on this page alone; contact a veterinarian for symptoms, pain, weight change, skin changes, persistent behaviour change, or any urgent concern.
References
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 7-13 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: The long, soft, and silky coat of the Havanese needs to be groomed daily to be kept free of mats and tangles. This can be done by gently running a comb or soft brush over the dog while he is on your lap. Pet owners often choose to have their dog's coat clipped to a short trim to reduce grooming time. The Havanese should also be bathed occasionally as…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: The Havanese has moderate exercise needs. They will benefit from a brisk daily walk or a fun playtime with their owner in the backyard, as they are happiest when someone is with them. Romping inside the home can also provide enough activity. Never over-exercise a Havanese of any age. If they are panting and struggling to keep up, it is time to go home.…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Havanese are highly intelligent and eager to please, and they are easily trained so long as you use only positive methods. This can be a sensitive breed, so care must be taken to not scold them harshly. Socialization from an early age is very important. Expose them calmly to a wide variety of new places and new people, always ensuring that the experiences…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: Havanese, the only dog breed native to Cuba, are cheerful little dogs with a spring in their step and a gleam in their big, brown eyes. These vivacious and sociable companions are becoming especially popular with American city dwellers.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Hip Evaluation', 'Ophthalmologist Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Havanese.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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