Havapoo Breed Guide

Havapoo Details

Size:
Small-Medium
Weight:
7-30 pounds
Energy Level:
Low
Lifespan:
10-15 years
Shedding:
None
Grooming:
Frequent
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
Trainability:
High

Havapoo Guide

The Havapoo, sometimes referred to as a Poovanese, is an intelligent hybrid of the Havanese and toy or miniature Poodle breeds. This small pup stands between 8-15 inches high and weighs 7-30 lbs.

They are characterized by their thick coats of medium to long length that are soft and wavy or curly with a variety of colors, including black, blue, silver, chocolate, white, fawn, silver and gold, apricot, blue, brown, gray, and cream.

Their coats may also feature a number of different patterns, such as tricolor, bicolor, and tuxedo. As an added bonus for allergy sufferers, this breed is also considered hypoallergenic.

The Havapoo’s lifespan averages 10-15 years, making them an excellent option for individuals looking to have a lifelong pup companion.

Havapoo Generations

Like all breeds, there are generations that vary in traits and characteristics. Here’s what you need to know about Havapoo generations. 

F1 Generation 

This is the first generation of Havapoos, made by combining a purebred Havanese with a purebred Poodle. It may come as no surprise that this generation tends to be the most unpredictable since it has not been bred for any particular trait or characteristic—it is simply a combination of two purebreds.

F1B Generation 

This generation combines an F1 Havapoo with a purebred Poodle. Since this union produces puppies with 75% Poodle genes, these pups tend to have many of the same traits, such as hypoallergenic coats, intelligence, and non-shedding fur.

F2 Generation 

The F2 generation is produced by combining two F1 Havapoors together. These pups usually have 50/50 Havanese/Poodle genes, so their characteristics will vary greatly depending on which parent they take after more closely.

History

The Havapoo was first developed in the United States in the 1990s when breeders began crossing Havanese and Miniature Poodles to create an even-tempered and affectionate family pet.

The goal was to create a small, hypoallergenic companion with loyal and loving dispositions that could also fit into any living situation—including apartments or condos.

And it worked! Since then, these pups have become increasingly popular among all types of people, from families to seniors. 

The Havanese is a toy-sized pup that originated on the Caribbean island of Cuba in the 1800s. These dogs were originally bred as companions for Cuban aristocrats, which explains why they are so friendly and outgoing today!

On the other hand, Miniature Poodles are descended from German water retrievers that were used for duck hunting in Europe centuries ago. As such, these pups are incredibly intelligent; they can learn commands quickly and love to show off their skills whenever possible! 

Appearance

The Havapoo is an endearing, fluffy dog with unique features. Its small round head and dark, expressive eyes create an impressive sense of character.

Their tiny black button nose, coupled with cute floppy ears and an adorable puffy tail, really put the icing on the cake, making it an absolute charmer of a pup.

Coat

Known for their thick, luxurious coats, the Havapoo features a variety of colors, from black and blue to silver and gold, with tricolor, bicolor, and tuxedo patterns.

Not only aesthetically appealing, but these dogs are also considered hypoallergenic, making them an ideal pet for those who suffer from allergies. Offering a medium to long-length coat with a soft, wavy, or curly finish, the Havapoo is sure to catch your eye.

Size

The Havapoo is an ideal choice for dog owners looking for a companion who is relatively small but still quite sturdy in size. Generally, these joyful pups can weigh between 7-30 pounds, and their height stands at 8-15 inches, depending on the size of their Poodle parent.

Lifespan

The Havapoo has an impressive lifespan of anywhere from 10 to 15 years. This makes them a great option for those looking for a committed companion and a pup that will always be ready for cuddles or playtime.

With consistent care and regular vet visits, it’s possible to keep your Havapoo healthy enough to reach the upper end of their average lifespan.

Environment

The Havapoo is an ideal breed for owners with a wide range of lifestyles and living situations. They are suitable for apartment living and small homes, making them ideal for first-time dog owners.

They do need opportunities to get outside and explore, though, whether that’s in a fenced yard or taking frequent trips to the local dog park.

The Havapoo has the added bonus of being excellent around children, elderly people, cats, and other dogs – making them a great family pet. In addition, they only bark when they feel they have something important to say, so you won’t experience any unnecessary noise pollution either!

Temperament

The Havapoo engages its owner in an endearingly loyal and affectionate demeanor. One of the most endearing qualities of this breed is the gentle and calm temperament they often exhibit, even when interacting with unfamiliar faces.

Yet they are also known to be outgoing and playful, ensuring entertaining hour-long walks in the park or relaxed play sessions at home.

Lastly, they demonstrate patience with children, making them a perfect addition to any family looking for a loyal companion who will get along well with their little ones.

Grooming

These loving, loyal, and intelligent companions require lots of care, including regular grooming. So let’s break down the basics of how to groom your Havapoo at home. 

Brushing

Brushing your Havapoo’s coat regularly is essential for keeping their fur soft, glossy, and tangle-free. How often you brush depends on your pup’s coat type; dogs with smooth coats may require brushing only once a week, while those with curly or wavy coats may need daily sessions.

Start by combing out any tangles with a wide-toothed comb before switching to a slicker brush or double-sided comb to remove dead hair and distribute oils evenly throughout the fur. Finish off with a bristle brush to give your pup’s coat that perfect shine! 

Bathing

Bathe your Havapoo no more than once every two months using a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs. When it comes time to bathe, start by wetting them thoroughly and applying shampoo from head to tail before rinsing off thoroughly with warm water.

Afterward, dry them off with towels before finishing up with a blow dryer set on low heat (your pup should be comfortable through this process). Lastly, remember not to submerge their faces in the water, as this can be dangerous for their eyes and ears! 

Ears

It is essential to check inside your Havapoo’s ears every week for dirt buildup or signs of infection, such as redness and swelling. If you do notice anything concerning, take them to the vet right away for proper treatment.

To prevent any issues from arising in the first place, use an ear cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian; don’t forget to dry their ears out thoroughly afterward! 

Nails

Trim your pup’s nails every few weeks (or more often if they are walking on pavement) using either nail clippers or nail grinders designed specifically for dogs.

If you choose clippers, make sure they are sharp enough so you don’t accidentally cut into the quick. If this happens, it can cause pain and bleeding, which could make your pup fearful during future nail-trimming sessions.  

Teeth

Regular dental care is essential for keeping your pup’s teeth healthy! Brush their teeth 2-3 times per week using toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs and a toothbrush or finger brush that fits comfortably inside their mouth (the size will depend on how big/small they are).

Make sure you get all surfaces of each tooth in order to remove debris buildup, which can lead to plaque formation over time—this will also help keep bad breath at bay! 

Nutrition

When it comes to nutrition for Havapoo puppies and adults, small-breed food is generally preferred due to the size of their bodies. In addition, this type of food contains higher levels of protein, fat, and other nutrients necessary for building blocks and energy compared to food made for larger canine breeds.

As with any other dog breed, it’s crucial to watch caloric intake and prevent overeating, as Havapoos are prone to gain weight easily. In addition to selecting nutrient-dense foods, consider making small meal portions or breaking down meals into multiple servings throughout the day.

Finally, consulting a veterinarian or canine nutritionist will ensure that your pup is getting all of the necessary nutrients to stay healthy and happy!

Training

Training your Havapoo can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. In order to ensure success, establish a routine and rewarding system from the start – and remember to stay consistent!

Positive reinforcement is key to successful Havapoo training. When the pup does something correctly, ensure they’re acknowledged with verbal praise or treats.

Additionally, keep in mind that Havapoos are extremely smart and need to remain mentally stimulated – consider enrolling in fun classes or teaching specialized tricks.

With patience and encouragement, your beloved Havapoo will learn quickly and efficiently to become a well-adjusted member of your family.

Exercise

Exercising your Havapoo is crucial to keep them healthy and happy. Not only can regular light exercise help prevent weight gain, but it can stimulate their mental health as well.

In addition to physical movement, make sure your pup plays lots of mentally stimulating games, such as hide and seek or catch with toys. Depending on the age and size of your Havapoo, different types of exercises will be suitable for them.

Such activities can range from long walks to agility training. Make sure you check with a veterinarian before starting any new exercise routine with your pup to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their breed and age group.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an affectionate companion that requires relatively low amounts of exercise but still has plenty of energy (not to mention intelligence!), then the Havapoo might be the perfect fit for your family.

With proper care and nutrition throughout their lifespan (which averages 10–15 years), these hybrids make wonderful additions to any home—just make sure you get them from a reputable breeder so that you can ensure their overall health!