Havapoos, with their boundless energy, intelligence, and cuddly nature, are quickly becoming one of America’s most popular family pets. But what makes these Poodle and Havanese mixes so special, and what do you need to know before bringing a Havapoo puppy home?
That’s what we’re here to discuss. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Havapoo puppies, from their breed overview and temperament to how to care for them and find a reputable breeder. So, if you’re considering adding one of these adorable pups to your family, read on!
What exactly is a Havapoo?
Havapoos are a hybrid or “designer” breed, which means they’re a mix of two purebred dogs: the Havanese and the Poodle. In most cases, breeders use a Miniature Poodle to keep the size manageable.
Because they’re a mixed breed, Havapoos aren’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, you can register them with other breed registries, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club.
What do Havapoos look like?
Havapoos typically stand between 8 and 15 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 8 to 45 pounds. Their size can vary quite a bit, depending on the size of the parent dogs.
Havapoos usually have a curly or wavy coat inherited from their Poodle ancestors. They come in a rainbow of colors, including white, black, brown, and parti-color (patches of two or more colors).
One of the best things about Havapoos is that they’re low-shedding dogs. Because of that, they’re often considered hypoallergenic, which is good news for allergy sufferers.
What’s a Havapoo like?
Havapoos are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and playful. They generally love people and are happy to make new friends.
Most Havapoos are great family pets. They tend to get along with kids, other dogs, and even cats. As with any dog, interactions between young children and puppies should be supervised carefully, no matter how good-natured the puppy seems to be.
One of the things that people love most about Havapoos is that they tend to retain their playful, puppy-like personalities, even as they grow into adulthood.
If you’re looking for a guard dog, a Havapoo probably isn’t the right choice. They’re more likely to want to be your friend than to protect your property.
Caring for Your Havapoo Puppy
So, you’ve brought home a fluffy little Havapoo! Get ready for lots of love and laughter, and also, some responsibility. Here’s what you need to know to keep your puppy happy and healthy.
Feeding and Nutrition
Start with a high-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. These foods are designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of growing puppies. Pay close attention to the feeding guidelines on the food packaging, and measure out the portions carefully. It’s easy to overfeed these little guys, and obesity can lead to a whole host of health problems down the road.
Exercise and Activity
Havapoos are moderately active dogs. They need daily exercise to burn off energy and stay in shape. Regular walks are a must, and playtime in the backyard or at the park is a great way to keep them entertained. They also need mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games like fetch or hide-and-seek can help keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom.
Grooming Needs
That adorable, fluffy coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Daily brushing is ideal, but at least a few times a week is essential. You’ll also need to trim their nails regularly, clean their ears to prevent infections, and brush their teeth to maintain good dental hygiene. Start handling their paws, mouths, and ears from a young age. This will get them used to being touched and make grooming much easier as they get older. It’s a lot easier to get them used to grooming as puppies than it is to start when they are older.
Training and Socialization
HavaPoo puppies are super-cute, but they need training and socialization from a young age to become well-behaved family pets.
Importance of Early Socialization
Socialization is essential for every dog, but especially for small breeds, which can sometimes be fearful around strangers. Start early, exposing your puppy to all kinds of sights, sounds, people, and other animals, as long as those interactions are safe and positive. Early socialization helps your puppy grow into a confident, well-adjusted dog.
Training Techniques
HavaPoos respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Reward-based training, with treats, praise, and toys, is highly effective. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can sometimes be a bit stubborn, so be patient and consistent with your training efforts.
Potty Training
Potty training can be one of the biggest challenges of puppy ownership, but a consistent routine and positive reinforcement can help. Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after waking up, eating, and playing. Reward successful potty breaks with praise and a small treat.
Health Considerations
Like all breeds, Havapoos are prone to certain health problems. Potential issues to watch out for include cataracts, deafness, hypothyroidism, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation.
Regular checkups with a veterinarian are essential for early detection and management of any health concerns.
Havapoos can also be sensitive to heat, so it’s important to watch them closely for signs of overheating and give them plenty of water and rest during hot weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big will a Havapoo get?
Havapoos are small dogs, typically ranging in height from 8 to 15 inches and weighing between 7 and 14 pounds. Their size can vary depending on the size of the parent Havanese and Poodle. It’s a good idea to ask the breeder about the size of the parents to get a better estimate.
How much does a Havapoo puppy cost?
Havapoo puppies can range in price from $1,500 to $4,000 or even higher. The price depends on factors like the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, coat color, and location. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee a healthier or better-tempered puppy, so do your research carefully!
What is better, a Havapoo or a Cavapoo?
Whether a Havapoo or Cavapoo is “better” is entirely subjective and depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle! Havapoos tend to be more energetic and playful, while Cavapoos might be a bit more laid-back. Consider your activity level, living situation, and what you’re looking for in a companion to decide which breed is right for you.
Why are Havapoos so expensive?
Havapoos are popular designer breeds, and high demand often drives up the price. Reputable breeders invest significant resources in health testing, proper care, and socialization, which contributes to the cost. Be wary of breeders offering Havapoos at suspiciously low prices, as this could indicate poor breeding practices or health issues.
In Conclusion
If you’re considering adding a Havapoo puppy to your family, choosing a responsible breeder is crucial. Ethical breeders prioritize health and early socialization and will be transparent with you about health testing and family history. Remember that mixed-breed dogs can inherit the best—and worst—genetic traits from their parent breeds.
Bringing home a Havapoo puppy can bring you great joy, but it’s also a big responsibility. Havapoos thrive when they are with their people, so be sure you can offer a Havapoo plenty of companionship and attention before you decide to bring one home.