There are many different small companion dogs in the world, some with plenty of positive traits and some that have been overbred a little.
Therefore, there is a desire with breeders to create the perfect hybrid, where small breeds are “improved” with other traits.
One such dog is the Havapoo – a cross between the Havanese and the Poodle.
There is plenty of interest in this hybrid based on the name. However, there are also plenty of questions about the breeding, as well as the physical characteristics and personality traits that come through.
Instant preconceptions arise about the size, intelligence, coat and personality of these crosses. But, are these preconceptions accurate?
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]In this guide, we aim to provide the very best Havapoo information to help anybody that may be interested on owning this cross breed. [/thrive_text_block]Our approach here is basically to answer some of the most pressing questions that prospective owners may have about these dogs.
Black Havapoo – Source
There is the issue of size, as some people are not sure how big these dogs will actually get. Here we will look at the breeding of these crosses with different types of Poodles, as well as the issue of a teacup Havanese Poodle cross.
Then there is the issue of the coat, as there is that expectation of a hypoallergenic coat with any Poodle cross. Here we will look at the coat type, grooming and the colors seen.
Then there is the issue of the personality, as many people have no idea what to expect from the behavior of these dogs. Here we will look at temperament, potential problems and training.
Then there is the issue of obtaining one of these crosses. Here we will consider breeders and adoption.
By the end, you should have a better understanding of these dogs. Before all of that, we need to discuss the name.
Table of Contents
What should we call these dogs?
As with any hybrid dog, it is important to know what we should call them.
There will always be different names preferred by different owners and breeders, but it helps to have some kind of standard name for clarity.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The Havapoo, while slightly questionable, is the one that seems to have come out on top. This is most common with breeders, which is why we will stick with this name from the next section onwards. [/thrive_text_block]
Others prefer to flip the name and talk about a Poovanese, with some ads about Poovanese puppies for sale. Then there are the other alternative names such as Island Mini Doodle, Havanoodle, Havadoodle and Havanesepoo.
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How big will a Havanese miniature Poodle mix get?
The first question to answer here about this cross breed regards the size.
Are we looking at a much bigger Havanese with these Poodle genes, or is it quite a small dog?
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The average Havapoo size in terms of height is around 8-15 inches and the Havapoo average weight is 15-45 pounds. [/thrive_text_block]
The variations in size of a Havapoo full grown will all come down to the breeding – specifically the type of Poodle that is used in this Havanese Poodle mix.
Some may use the Miniature Poodle while others favor the Toy Poodle. Either way, the pups tend to look a lot more like the Havanese than the Poodle in terms of build and face shape.
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This leads to another question that some prospective owners have about the possibility of a teacup Havapoo.
There are always concerns with any breeder that claims to have teacup dogs, as we don’t always know precisely what they mean.
There are three possibilities here:
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]1 – Is this a miniature Havapoo that isn’t all that small, but breeders have misused the name?2 – Is this a Havapoo that is smaller than average because it is defected or a runt?
3 – Is this a completely different, smaller Havanese cross that has the Havapoo name because it might sell a little more easily?[/thrive_text_block]
It is probably best that all dog lovers looking for this dog steer clear of the teacup name. If you want a dog smaller than a Havapoo, look for a different breed or hybrid.
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The next aspect to look at here is the coat of these Havapoo dogs
So, what coat type can owners expect with this dog?
There are variations in coat types depending on the dominant genes in play.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]Some will have a coat that is pretty curly, much like the Poodle, while others will have one that is longer and more wavy. [/thrive_text_block]
Havanese Poodle Mix- Image Source
Then there is the question of whether it is hypoallergenic because of those Poodle genes.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]For the most part, owners tend to find that these dogs are hypoallergenic, with minimal shedding. This is great news for those with allergies. [/thrive_text_block]However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t grooming requirements with this coat. It needs regular brushing to keep it in top condition.
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What colors can we get with this Poodle Havanese mix?
Online Havapoo pictures show that there are many different colors in the coat, with the potential for both white and black Havapoo dogs, with plenty of variations in between.
[easyazon_infoblock align=”center” identifier=”B01EINBA76″ locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″]Caring for these Havapoo puppies at home
The best type of home environment for these dogs is a home with enough space and a family that will cater to all its needs. There is no reason why they shouldn’t do OK in an apartment because of their small size.
However, they still have strong exercise needs to keep them fit and strong.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]Make sure they get a good walk and plenty of playtime to keep their sharp minds active. A bored Havapoo may not be too happy in a small apartment. [/thrive_text_block]==> The Importance of Keeping Your Dog Mentally Stimulated
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Important Havapoo health problems that all owners need to watch out for
Caring for any small breed can be tricky, so it is important that new owners understand all the potential health problems associated with this dog.
Unfortunately there are a number of diseases associated with this cross breed, such as Addison’s, Cushing’s and Von Willebrand’s.
There is also the potential for epilepsy, heart complaints and eye issues. This is why it makes sense to discuss the potential for inherited illness with a breeder.
There are some great tools available to help new owners provide the best healthcare.
The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health from Kingdom of Pets is a great resource for information on different topics.
What about the Havapoo temperament?
These beautiful dogs are appealing because of their looks, size and coat, but we also need to be sure that they are good natured dogs.
This is especially true for anyone looking to bring these dogs into a family set-up.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]Most of the time, owners see these pups as sweet, happy dogs that are a joy to have in the home.[/thrive_text_block]They are very affectionate with the family members that they love and trust, with many looking to cuddle up on the sofa.
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Are there any negative Havapoo personality traits and behavioral issues that owners need to be aware of here?
Behavioral problems aren’t too bad with this dog because of the good nature. There is occasional barking, but this can be kept under control fairly easily.
There are also some owners that point out that these dogs can be fairly sensitive, so require careful handling. This could be an issue if there are smaller children in the home that may not realize if they are being a little rough.
In addition to this, there are some owners that claim that their Havapoo can read minds. They are very intuitive to feelings and able to understand emotion in a tone of voice. This can be both a blessing and a curse depending on the situation.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]These dogs can be great family pets with the right training and patience, which leads us to the next factor. [/thrive_text_block]
Training a Havapoo
The personality and behavioral issues mentioned here mean that there is a definite need for a good training regimen.
This is essential with any new pup, as they learn so much from an early age and can be more difficult to train as the get older.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The good news here is that the intelligence of the Poodle should come through with these dogs. This should allow them to pick up regimens and commands fairly easily. [/thrive_text_block]Socialization training is particularly important here from an early age to combat this issue of sensitivity around children and other animals.
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Anyone that finds themselves struggling to train their Havapoo puppy may need to turn to a professional guide for some help.
Doggy Dan the Online Dog Trainer is a great example that many dog owners can get along with – even those with this unusual hybrid. This is a simple, accessible guide that handles all sorts of common training issues, with no bias over the breed type.
The step-by-step nature is great for all first time owners, and the pace allows owners to work slowly and independently in the comfort of their home.
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Finding Havanese Poodle mix puppies for sale
The first place to look for one of these puppies for sale is with a respectable breeder.
There are always going to be good breeders and bad ones, and it pays to take the time to research to find the best. This is important for the health and safety of the dog, as well as your own costs and experiences.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The best breeders are those that will allow you to see the dog, in its home, before making a decision. This shows an openness and willingness to talk about the animals. [/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_infoblock align=”center” identifier=”1519613806″ locale=”US” nw=”y” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″]All new owners should take the time to meet the puppies and parents to get a better idea of inherent issues and immediate personality traits. They should also talk to breeders about health issues and important paperwork.
The worst breeders are the ones that want a quick sale with no information and no access to the parents. These are the ones with something to hide.
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White Havapoo – Image Source
The issue of looking for Havanese Poodle mix breeders leads us to the problem of cost.
The Havapoo cost can vary between breeders.
There are some that will overcharge with four figure prices. Some will do so because they believe that their stock is worth the price, or because they throw in extras in a care package.
Some will try and con buyers with talk of rare colors or that teacup issue.
There are also those that will undercharge. This could be a sign of a breeder that keeps breeding an unhealthy amount of litter from his dogs, or those with sick, runt animals that they can’t sell.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]Try and find those with a Poodle and Havanese mix price that is somewhere in the middle [/thrive_text_block]
The alternative for all those looking for these dogs is to search for a Havapoo for adoption
Adoption is a great alternative to a Havapoo breeder for many reasons.
This a great place to find Havapoo adults in need of a good home. These dogs may be left here for a number of reasons.
Some good owners may move or deal with circumstances where they simply can’t continue to care for the dog.
Rescue shelters provide a vital lifeline for these dogs where they get a second chance.
This is a great idea for anyone that doesn’t want to train a puppy, but also those that can’t afford one.
As you can see, there is a lot to consider when looking into the pros and cons of the Havapoo
Whether you want to call them Havapoos or Poovanese dogs, there is a definite charm to these dogs.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]A Havanese x Poodle has its issues with grooming – even though there is the benefit of the hypoallergenic coat – and the sensitivity issue may be too much for some families. [/thrive_text_block]However, a well-trained pup in the right environment proves to be a great, loving little dog that many families will adore.
Take the time to understand the health issues, training requirements and local breeders a little more.
If you still believe you have the commitment to take one on, a Havenese pup could be the perfect new addition to the home.
Featured Image: unruelyhavapoo/luna.ro.wo