The Havanese is a small dog that gets extremely high marks in many categories. They do no shed and are hypo-allergenic, they love children and other pets, and they are easy to train. What more do you need? There are several popular hybrid dogs that are created with the Havanese. This way you can possibly have the better of two breeds.

We tend to like small dog breeds because they are easy to transport, less costly to care for, they don’t need a lot of exercise, they are easy to travel with, and they can sit on our laps. Many people prefer mixed breed dogs because they tend to be healthier, live longer and they can be found in shelters, rather than paying a high price to a breeder. Designer dogs are very popular right now, it seems like everyone is trying to find the next best breed.

The Havanese is a breed that originates in Cuba. They were often found in the homes of the wealthy during the 18th and 19th centuries. In the 1960s, when Cubans were migrating to the US, they brought their dogs. In the 1970s, Havenese began to be bred in the US. They come in many colors: cream, gold, white, silver, blue and black. They have a long reputation of being circus dogs because they are intelligent and easy to train. Havanese dogs love to be with people. They have dark eyes and a long silky coat that is easier to maintain when kept short. They are alert watch dogs, but only occasionally bark. They tend to be prone to skin diseases and cataracts. Other favored small dog breeds, mixed with the Havanese make a new, adorable dog.

The Cavanese includes a King Charles Spaniel and produces a dog that is 12-17 pounds. They can take on different looks; some have short, curly hair while others have long hair. They do not bark a lot, are patient and loving, do not shed and are easy to train.

The Havapoo or Poovanese includes a Poodle. They tend to look like a Havanese with extra curly hair. Sometimes they are found with a short, docked tail like the Poodle. They don’t shed, are easy to train, love people of all ages and need moderate exercise.

The Havashire includes a Yorkshire Terrier. They tend to be a little taller than they are long and will have a medium to long tail. Their coat is usually long and straight, but some do have the wavy hair of a Havanese. Their beard and eyebrows are well-defined. This hybrid has been very popular for the last 10 years. They are good with children, but take a little while getting used to other pets. They have a high-pitched bark, and usually weigh between 5-13 pounds.

The Havapeke includes the Pekingese, of Chinese origin. This combination usually yields a 7-14 pound dog that requires a good bit of brushing. They need a minimal amount of exercise, are confident and pleasant and friendly with people. They tend to be difficult to house break and are prone to eye and breathing problems.

The Havamalt includes a Maltese. This dog is loyal and affectionate, gentle and sociable, and easy to train. This hybrid has become more popular over the past few years. They don’t bark much and are alert watch dogs. This dog doesn’t usually shed, but this is not true for all. They grow to be between 9-12 pounds.

Any of the above mentioned breeds mixed with a Havanese will produce a lovable, loyal family dog. You have to make sure you find a reputable, trusted breeder, or aim for the rescue organizations to adopt a needy animal.