Havashires are small dogs, typically with a long, silky coat that can vary in color and texture, reflecting their mixed heritage.

Typically 7-12 inches tall at the shoulder.

Usually between 7-15 pounds.

Can be long and silky like a Havanese, or slightly wiry like a Yorkshire Terrier. Often low-shedding.

Varies widely; can include combinations of black, brown, white, tan, gold, and blue.

Often features a rounded skull with expressive, dark eyes.

Can be carried high and curved over the back, similar to a Havanese, or docked in some cases (though docking is increasingly controversial).

Havashires are known for their affectionate, playful, and often bold personalities, blending the best traits of their parent breeds.

They form strong bonds with their families and love to cuddle.

Energetic and enjoy interactive games.

Quick learners, but can be stubborn at times.

Make good watchdogs, often barking to alert their owners to strangers.

Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Can have a 'big dog' attitude despite their small size.

Havashires are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with love, attention, and moderate exercise.

Good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Potential for separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

The ideal Havashire owner is someone who can provide consistent training, regular grooming, and plenty of love and attention. They are well-suited for families, singles, or seniors who are looking for a small, affectionate companion.

Havashires require regular grooming due to their potentially long coats, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment.

Brush several times a week to prevent matting, especially if they have a longer coat. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.

Bathe as needed, usually every 2-3 months, or when they get dirty.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 2-4 weeks, to prevent overgrowth.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Brush their teeth regularly, ideally daily, to maintain good oral hygiene.

Feed a high-quality, small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

Adapt well to apartment living or homes with yards, provided they get enough exercise.

Havashires are moderately easy to train due to their intelligence, though they can have a stubborn streak. They require moderate daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Havashires are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, their Yorkshire Terrier heritage can sometimes manifest as stubbornness. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended.

Despite their small size, Havashires have moderate energy levels. They need daily walks and playtime to burn off energy and prevent boredom. Interactive toys and games, such as fetch or puzzle toys, can help keep them mentally stimulated.

Establish clear rules and be consistent with training.

Use treats, praise, and positive interactions to motivate them.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest.

Provide puzzle toys and games to challenge their minds.

Havashires are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position.

Prone to dental issues like tartar buildup and gum disease.

Low blood sugar, particularly common in puppies.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A condition that affects the hip joint, leading to degeneration of the femur head.

The Havashire, being a relatively recent hybrid, doesn't have a long, documented history like purebred dogs. The breed's origin is rooted in the intentional crossbreeding of Havanese and Yorkshire Terriers, likely originating in the United States within the last few decades. The goal was to combine desirable traits from both parent breeds: the Havanese's hypoallergenic coat and friendly demeanor, and the Yorkshire Terrier's small size and spirited personality. The Havashire is recognized by designer breed registries, such as the Designer Breed Registry (DBR) and International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), but not by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC).

While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Havashires are often considered to be a good choice for allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coats, inherited from both the Havanese and Yorkshire Terrier parents.

Havashires need moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day.

Yes, Havashires are generally good with children when properly socialized. However, interactions between young children and small dogs should always be supervised.

Havashires can be prone to barking, especially when alerting their owners to strangers or unusual sounds. Early training can help manage this tendency.

The average lifespan of a Havashire is 12-15 years.

Havashires typically weigh between 7 and 15 pounds and stand 7 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.

Havashires are intelligent but can be stubborn. Positive reinforcement and consistent training are key to success.

Yes, Havashires require regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and occasional professional grooming, especially if they have a longer coat.

You can find Havashires through reputable breeders specializing in designer crossbreeds or through rescue organizations that focus on small mixed-breed dogs.

Havashires are generally healthy but can be prone to certain health issues, as detailed in the health section.