The Havapoo is an adorable mix between two of the most popular breeds: the Havanese and the poodle. While every pup is unique, Havapoos tend to be affectionate, loyal, and adaptable. They have a famously cheery disposition that seems to always brighten the mood of those around them. They are also exceptionally intelligent, a trait they no doubt owe to their brainy box poodle parent.
These qualities can make Havapoos truly remarkable family companions, but they aren’t for everyone. They need the right home to thrive, as without the right care and support, they can quickly become anxious and even destructive.
If you’re considering welcoming a Havapoo into your home, we don’t blame you! However, it’s important not to base your decision solely on their adorable looks and endearing wagging tail. You need to familiarize yourself with their temperament, care needs, and health, all of which we’ll cover in detail below.
Understanding the Havapoo
The Havapoo is a designer breed that has steadily been surging in popularity throughout the US since the 1990s. While their traits can be a little more unpredictable than those of a purebred dog, both parents do share some similar qualities. You can expect your Havapoo to have these qualities as well.
What Does the Havapoo Look Like?
Havapoos have compact frames with alert, intelligent expressions. They typically stand up to 18 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 7 and 30 pounds. Havapoos mixed with standard poodles tend to be larger than those mixed with the toy and miniature poodle varieties, but they rarely ever exceed 18 inches.
The Havapoo has a long, profuse coat. They can either have the Havanese’s silky fur or the poodle’s iconic curly texture. Both coat types are hypoallergenic, meaning they shed minimally and aren’t likely to trigger allergies. This can make the Havapoo a popular pet for those with fur sensitivities, though be mindful that everyone reacts differently.
What Is the Havapoo’s Personality?
The Havapoo inherits the best qualities from their parents. They tend to have the poodle’s quick wit and eagerness to please, and the Havanese’s cheerful disposition and outgoing side. The Havapoo, like both parents, is also extremely affectionate and forms close attachments to their family.
Be mindful that the Havapoo is happiest when they have their favorite humans by their side. If you leave them alone for too long, they can experience separation anxiety and may engage in self-soothing, destructive behaviors to ease their stress.
Socialize them from an early age and help them get accustomed to being alone through desensitization and conditioning. You should also make sure you give your Havapoo plenty of distractions to keep them occupied while you’re away, such as interactive puzzle toys and long-lasting chews.
The Havapoo can get along well with kids, provided their fragile stature and space is respected. Teach your kids how to play with them gently and do not allow any roughhousing, as this can quickly lead to injuries.
Havapoo Care Needs
Havapoos are generally easy to care for, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook their needs. Here’s what to expect if you welcome a Havapoo into your family:
- Exercise Needs: Havapoos are relatively energetic and usually need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day to thrive. Split this across walks, interactive games, and runs.
- Mental Stimulation: Havapoos need outlets for their brainpower. Provide mental enrichment, around 30 minutes each day, in the form of training and brain-teasing activities like snuffle mats.
- Grooming Needs: Havapoos shed minimally, but both coat types require regular brushing to prevent mats from forming. Expect to brush them at least three times a week.
- Training: Havapoos are intelligent and eager to please, so they can pick up training quickly. Start with the basics like “sit” and “recall” before teaching them advanced commands.
- Dietary Needs: Havapoos should be fed a high-quality formula that accommodates their size, age, and energy level. Most need around ½ to 2 cups of dog food each day, split across two meals.
You should also prioritize your Havapoo’s health. Take them to their regular vet checkups, ensure they’re up-to-date on vaccinations, and watch out for signs of unusual behavior or coat changes. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, bloat, thyroid issues, and cataracts.
Is the Havapoo the Right Breed for My Family?
The Havapoo can be the perfect loving playmate for you, but that’s only if you can give them the perfect home in return. Read their care needs above carefully. If these all sound manageable to you, then the Havapoo may be your forever friend!
For a closer in-depth look at the breed, including how often they bark and whether they’re a good fit for first-time owners, be sure to check out Dog Academy’s complete Havapoo breed guide.
