Enjoy this guide and overview with a lot of tips for existing owners of Havapoo Doodle Dogs.

A Havapoo, also known as a Havadoodle or Poovanese, is a wonderful mix of Havanese and Poodle.

History of Havapoo Doodle Dogs

The fascinating history of the Havapoo is deeply intertwined with the story of the Havanese.

The Havanese, sometimes known as the “Havana Silk Dog,” are native to the tropical paradise of Cuba. They first appeared on Tenerife, an island in the Canary Islands, and Spanish settlers brought them to Cuba, which eventually gave rise to the modern Havanese we now know.

Famed for their long, silky coats and affectionate personalities, Havanese dogs quickly became beloved companions of Cuban high society. Their adaptable nature, combined with their beautiful appearance, made them favored pets within households and an elegant accessory at social gatherings. Their warmth, intelligence, and natural affinity for companionship ensured their popularity transcended the boundaries of Cuba.

As with many breeds, there were times in history when the Havanese faced the threat of extinction, especially during the Cuban Revolution. However, a few Cuban citizens transported them to the United States, ensuring their survival. Over time, they gained tremendous popularity in the U.S. and across Europe, loved for their playful demeanor, adaptability, and loving nature.

Given the Havanese’s remarkable temperament, it was only a matter of time before enthusiasts looked at blending its characteristics with those of other beloved breeds. The growing trend of designing dogs that encapsulated the best of two worlds in the late 20th century set the stage for the emergence of the Havapoo.

Mating the Havanese with the Poodle was an intentional decision aimed at combining the hypoallergenic attributes and the intellect of the Poodle with the Havanese’s sociable and cheerful traits. The outcome was the delightful Havapoo (or Havanoodle), a dog that boasts the best of both its parent breeds, making it a perfect family companion.

Selecting a Havapoo Doodle Dog

Havapoos typically inherit the friendly and affectionate nature of the Havanese and the intelligence and energy of the poodle. This blend makes them sociable, loving, and eager to please. They are often good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

While they love to play and have bursts of energy, Havapoos don’t require extensive exercise. Regular short walks and play sessions in a safe, enclosed space should suffice.

Havapoos are adaptable and can live comfortably in an apartment as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. However, they appreciate having a small yard or garden to play in.

Drawing from the poodle’s intelligence, Havapoos are generally easy to train. However, consistency is key. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise works best. Early socialization is also essential to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded dogs.

If you decide to get a Havapoo from a breeder, do thorough research. A responsible breeder will provide health clearances for both parent breeds and be transparent about any potential health issues. Always ask to see the puppy’s parents, the living conditions, and any necessary documentation.

Size and Lifespan of a Havapoo Doodle Dog

Size:

• Weight: Havapoos typically weigh between 7 and 20 pounds.
• Height: They generally stand about 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.

The size of a Havapoo can vary based on several factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. It’s worth noting that there might be occasional outliers that might be slightly larger or smaller than the mentioned range.

Benefits of Pet Insurance for Doodle Dogs

Lifespan: Havapoos have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced lifestyle can help ensure that Havapoos live to their full potential.

Health and Maintenance of Havapoo Doodle Dogs

Health:

1. Orthopedic Issues: Like many smaller breeds, Havapoos can be prone to patellar luxation. This is where the kneecap slips out of place, which can cause pain and mobility issues.
2. Eye Problems: Due to their Havanese ancestry, Havapoos can inherit a predisposition to certain eye conditions, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
3. Dental Issues: Their small mouth can make them susceptible to dental problems, including overcrowded teeth and gum diseases. Regular dental check-ups and brushing are essential.
4. Heart Conditions: Mitral valve disease, a condition affecting the heart’s valves, can be a concern, especially as the dog ages.
5. Allergies: Havapoos, like many breeds, can develop allergies to certain foods, environmental factors, or chemicals. Watch for itching, redness, or unusual behaviors and consult a vet if suspected.
6. Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): This is a liver condition that can affect small breeds like the Havapoo. It’s a birth defect where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxins entering the bloodstream.

Required Vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch and address health issues early on. By being proactive about their health and maintenance, you can ensure your Havapoo enjoys a long, happy, and healthy life.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Havapoo Doodle Dogs

The Havapoo’s delightful blend of the Havanese’s charm and the Poodle’s intelligence makes it a uniquely endearing breed. Whether you’re looking for a playful companion, a city-friendly pet, or an emotional support buddy, the Havapoo is a versatile choice that brings joy to many households.

Havapoos bond closely with their families. They thrive on human interaction and often shadow their owners, offering companionship and expecting it in return.

With the Poodle’s brains and the Havanese’s keenness to entertain, Havapoos are quick learners. This trait makes them relatively easy to train, but it also means they require mental stimulation. Thanks to their intelligence and curiosity, Havapoos seldom get bored when they have toys or interaction. They’re known to create their own little games to entertain themselves and their owners. While not overly hyper, they have a lively spirit and enjoy play sessions, especially fetch or interactive toys.

Interaction with Different Environments and People:

1. Kids: Generally, Havapoos are excellent with children. Their gentle and playful nature makes them a suitable companion for kids. However, due to their smaller size, it’s crucial that interactions with younger children are supervised to prevent accidental injury to the dog.
2. Elderly: Their adaptable energy levels and affectionate demeanor make Havapoos ideal companions for seniors. They can be content with short walks and indoor play.
3. Other Pets: With proper socialization, Havapoos typically get along well with other animals, be it dogs or cats. They’re not overly dominant or territorial.
4. Strangers: While they inherit a friendly disposition from the Havanese side, they can be slightly reserved or cautious around unfamiliar faces, akin to the Poodle’s trait. Early socialization can make them more amicable.
5. Apartments vs. Houses: Havapoos can thrive in both apartment settings and larger homes with yards. In apartments, daily walks and indoor play are essential. In homes with yards, they’ll appreciate the freedom to explore but always ensure the area is securely fenced.

Due to their close bond with their families, Havapoos can be prone to separation anxiety. They don’t like being left alone for extended periods. Interactive toys or having another pet companion can help alleviate this.

While they’re not excessively yappy, Havapoos might surprise you with a range of vocalizations, from little howls to playful barks, all in an attempt to communicate or get your attention. They might alert bark if they notice something amiss, inheriting a bit of the watchdog trait from the Havanese.

With their intelligence and eagerness to please, Havapoos respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. However, be consistent to avoid developing stubborn behaviors.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Havapoo to behave like a well trained service dog

Nutrition and Diet for Havapoo Doodle Dogs

General Nutrition:

The Havapoo, like all dogs, thrives on a balanced diet. Giving themthe right nutrients will go a long way in keeping them healthy and energetic.

1. Protein: Protein is a vital component for muscle development and overall growth. Look for foods with a good protein source at the top of the ingredient list.
2. Fats: Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids and are vital for coat health, skin health, and cognitive function.
3. Carbohydrates: Choose complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Ingredients like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and barley are preferable.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for bone development, immunity, and several biological functions. Always ensure the food has a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals.

Specific Dietary Considerations for Havapoos:

1. Size-specific Nutrition: Havapoos are generally small to medium-sized dogs. Choose a diet specifically designed for their size, as it caters to their energy needs and kibble size for easier chewing.
2. Skin and Coat Health: Due to their Poodle lineage, Havapoos can have curly to wavy coats. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in their diet will ensure their coat remains glossy and skin stays healthy.
3. Sensitivity Concerns: Some Havapoos can inherit the Havanese’s tendency for a sensitive stomach. If this is the case, consider a limited ingredient diet or one designed for dogs with food sensitivities.
4. Weight Management: While generally active, Havapoos can be prone to weight gain if overfed. Ensure you’re giving them the right portion sizes and consider a weight management formula if they’re becoming a bit chunky.
5. Treats: As with all breeds, treats should be given in moderation. Due to their smaller size and potential for weight gain, it’s even more crucial to ensure treats are healthy and not excessive.
6. Age-specific Nutrition: Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs or seniors. Ensure you are feeding them age-appropriate food. For instance, puppy formulas often have more calories and specific nutrients for growth, while senior formulas may have fewer calories and more joint support ingredients.
7. Homemade Diets: If considering a homemade diet, always consult with a veterinarian to ensure it’s balanced and meets all of Havapoo’s nutritional needs.

Hydration:

Always ensure your Havapoo has access to fresh and clean water. Proper hydration is essential for digestion, temperature regulation, and overall health.

Free Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Feeding your Havapoo a balanced, high-quality diet specific to their age, size, and any special considerations is essential for their well-being. Regularly consult with your veterinarian about any dietary changes or concerns to ensure your Havapoo remains in optimal health.

Cost to Purchase a Havapoo and Annual Costs

Initial Purchase Cost:

Breeder Puppies: Prices typically range from $1,000 to $3,000, with some breeders charging even higher for certain desirable traits or colors.

Rescues or Shelters: While less common, adopting a Havapoo from a rescue or shelter could cost anywhere from $200 to $600. This cost usually covers initial veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and sometimes even microchipping and spaying/neutering.

Reputable Doodle Dog Rescue Organizations in USA

Total Annual Estimate: Approximately $1,450 to $3,500, excluding the initial purchase price.

This is a general estimate based upon food, treats, healthcare, training, supplies, toys, insurance and occasional boarding. Actual costs can vary based on individual choices, unforseen medical issues, and regional price differences.

List of items needed to prepare for a Doodle Dog

Grooming a Havapoo Doodle Dog

Here’s what you need to know about grooming a Havapoo to keep them looking their best:

Typical Appearance:

1. Size: The Havapoo is a small dog, generally weighing between 7 to 20 pounds and standing 8 to 15 inches tall.
2. Coat: Their coat can range from curly, resembling the Poodle, to wavy, reminiscent of the Havanese. The texture is usually soft and can be of medium to long length.
3. Facial Features: They have expressive eyes, often framed by longer facial hair giving them a distinctive “teddy bear” look.

Coat Colors: Havapoos come in a variety of colors. Some common ones include: Cream, black, gray, chocolate, blue, white, and combinations thereof, often with tuxedo, parti, or merle patterns.

General Coat Care:

1. Brushing: Due to their coat’s potential to mat, it’s essential to brush a Havapoo several times a week. This not only prevents tangling but also distributes natural oils, promoting healthier skin and coat.
2. Bathing: A monthly bath is usually sufficient, but this can vary based on the dog’s activity level. Use a gentle dog-specific shampoo to maintain the coat’s natural oils.

Ear Care:

Havapoos can have ears that flop over, creating a warm and moist environment where bacteria or yeast might thrive.

1. Check their ears weekly for any signs of redness, itching, or bad odor.
2. Clean them using a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton ball. Never insert anything into the ear canal.
3. Keep hair inside the ears trimmed to improve air circulation.

Eye Care:

1. Due to their expressive eyes and facial hair, tear staining can sometimes occur. Clean around their eyes daily with a soft cloth to prevent buildup and staining.
2. Check for signs of redness or irritation, which could indicate an infection or foreign body.

Nail Care:

1. Havapoo nails grow quickly, so it’s essential to trim them every 3-4 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort or lead to posture problems.
2. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s a sign they’re too long.
3. Use a dog-specific nail clipper and be cautious to avoid the quick, which can bleed if cut. If unsure, seek guidance from a vet or professional groomer.

Dental Care: Due to their propensity for dental issues, it’s crucial to brush their teeth regularly. Using dog-specific toothpaste, aim for daily brushing, but a few times a week at a minimum.

Professional Grooming:

1. Depending on the coat’s length and your preferred style, you might need to visit a professional groomer every 2-3 months.
2. Typical cuts for Havapoos include the “teddy bear” cut or a more traditional, longer coat style.

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