Things to Think about Before Getting a Havanese
If you have young children:
Considering a Havanese as a family pet when you have small children presents both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, Havanese are known for their friendly dispositions and playful nature, making them excellent companions for young kids. Their affectionate temperament enables them to build strong bonds with family members, while their small size means they can easily fit into your family's lifestyle. Additionally, Havanese are generally adaptable, enjoying playtime while still having a good “off button”, which can align well with the energy levels of young children.
However, Havanese are small dogs, and while sturdy for their size, they still cannot tolerate rough handling. So children must be taught how to handle them gently can carefully. Many are also sensitive to loud environments, potentially leading to stress for the dog so you would need to work with your breeder to choose the right puppy for your family. You must also keep in mind the considerable amount of time needed to raise any puppy. The first year or so is very much like having another toddler in the house. So you need to be sure you are at a stage with your children where you are ready to take that on. Having the kids “help” may sound like a good idea, but the responsibility, in the end, is still on the adults in the household.
Additionally, you will need to make sure your children are at an age and understanding level where you can ensure the safety of a very small, fragile puppy. It is always the responsibility of the adults in the household to ensure the safety of both the children and the puppy. That means that interactions between the children and puppy must be supervised at all times.
Sometimes, choosing an older Havanese rather than a puppy can be a better option for a young family.
If you have other pets:
When considering bringing a Havanese into a household with other pets, several potential issues may arise.
Socialization Needs: Havanese are known for their friendly and sociable nature. However, this requires proper introduction and socialization with existing pets. Without gradual and careful introductions as well as on-going supervision, there may be tension or aggression, especially if other pets feel threatened by a new puppy. You will need to discuss introductions of an adult Havanese with other pets carefully with your breeder.
Size and Temperament Differences: The Havanese is a toy breed, which may make them vulnerable to rough play or overzealous behavior from larger or more energetic pets. Care must be taken to monitor interactions to prevent severe injury or stress.
Territorial Behavior: Some pets can be territorial, and introducing a Havanese might disturb the established dynamics. This can lead to aggression or anxiety in the existing pets. It is very important to keep an eye out for this sort of behavior because it is likely to show up sometime later, not when you first bring the puppy home. Make sure that your established pets have safe places to get away from the puppy and that they get plenty of personal play time with the family without the puppy!
Training Challenges: Depending on the existing pets' behavior, training a Havanese may take longer. Puppies need consistent guidelines and routines, and if other pets are not well trained, your new puppy may adopt undesired behaviors from them. The converse is also true, however. A well-trained older dog can be a wonderful role model for your Havanese puppy!
Cats: Cats, and especially adult cats, are not always very accepting of new puppies in their environment, and they must be given places where they can feel safe and get away from a puppy in their home. At the same time, the puppy must be carefully protected from the cat, because even in play, a cat’s sharp claws can cause irreparable harm to a puppy’s eye. Another issue is cat litter boxes. Dogs think cat boxes are a source of endless “treats”. So you need to arrange a spot where the cat can get to the litter box but your dog can’t!
Small Animal Pets: Be very, very careful with small animal pets around Havanese, whether puppies or adults. They might be cute and fluffy, but they are still dogs and they have a certain amount of hunting instinct. It is not fair to either the small animal or the Havanese to take any chances!!!
To ensure a smooth transition, it is essential to assess the personalities and behaviors of all pets involved, plan gradual introductions, and maintain consistent training and supervision.
If you work outside the home:
Havanese are not a breed that should be left home alone all day on a regular basis. While it is possible to leave them for the day on an occasional basis if they know how to use an indoor potty option, this is a breed that thrives on being with their owners. It is just not fair to them to leave them alone day after day. That said, I know a number of people. who work outside the home and have developed successful ways to have their Havanese and keep them happy and comfortable during the work day. It just takes some thought and effort.
To effectively meet your Havanese's needs while working outside the home, consider the following strategies:
Interactive Toys: Invest in puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys that can keep your Havanese mentally stimulated during the day. These can provide both entertainment and a challenge. Consider feeding your Havanese his or her breakfast in a frozen Kong or Toppl that they can work on for a long time in the morning.
Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: Hiring a dog walker to visit during the day can provide companionship, exercise, and a bathroom break. A pet sitter can spend quality time with your dog, helping to reduce loneliness. Another similar option is a retired neighbor who might enjoy having your Havanese visit for part of the day.
Daycare Options: Consider enrolling your Havanese in a reputable dog daycare facility. This allows socialization with other dogs and provides a full day of activities. Just be careful to check the daycare out carefully and make sure that it is really set up to meet the needs of a sensitive, small breed dog like a Havanese.
Routine Training: Establish a consistent routine for feeding, walking, and playtime. Havanese thrive on stability and predictability, which helps them feel secure when left alone. Take a class after work! Time spent training often wears a dog out more than physical exercise!
Comfortable Environment: Create a safe and comfortable space at home with their bed, toys, and access to fresh water. This can help reduce anxiety when you are away. I am a big fan of indoor potty training so that Havanese left home alone for long periods also have an appropriate place to potty without having an accident.
Time Management: Maximize your time at home by setting aside blocks for quality bonding time in the mornings and evenings and on weekends. If you can’t do this, you probably want to re-think if you really have time for a dog. Regularly check in on your dog's wellbeing to adjust care strategies as needed.
By implementing these measures, you can ensure that your Havanese remains happy and healthy while you manage your work commitments.
If you or a family member has a disability:
Incorporating a Havanese into your life when you or a family member has a disability offers numerous benefits and considerations. These small, affectionate dogs are known for their gentle temperament and adaptability, making them suitable companions for individuals with varying abilities.
They are highly trainable and can be taught to assist with daily tasks. Their intelligence allows them to learn commands and routines that can simplify life for their owners. For example, they can be trained to retrieve items, alert when someone is at the door, or provide emotional support during challenging moments.
Their size also makes them an ideal choice for those with mobility challenges. Their compact build allows them to easily navigate smaller living spaces and be carried if necessary. They can accompany their owners on outings, providing companionship and encouraging social interaction.
Additionally, the presence of a Havanese can enhance emotional well-being. The bond formed with a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for individuals with disabilities. The dog's playful nature and affectionate demeanor can bring joy and comfort, creating a more positive environment.
When integrating a Havanese into a household with a person who has a disability, it is important to consider potential challenges, be they physical, mental or emotional. Training and socialization are crucial to ensure the dog interacts comfortably with various situations and people. It is also important to talk to your breeder about your or your family member’s specific needs so that they can help you find the best possible puppy match for you.
Furthermore, daily care routines like grooming and exercise will need to be taken into consideration with the owner's abilities or someone else will need to handle those tasks. Remember, even grooming can be kept to a minimum by keeping a Havanese in a very short puppy cut. It is important to realize that depending on the disability of the family member, someone else may need to do the training of the dog, or at least support the disabled family member in that training.
It is also really important to keep in mind that puppies, including Havanese puppies, go through wild and often “bitey” periods as they grow up. They can “door dash” when it’s not expected, or run under people’s feet. For some people these behaviors can be hard or even dangerous to handle. This needs to be kept in mind, and appropriate training help should be arranged.
In summary, a Havanese can be a wonderful addition to a household where a disability is present. Their friendly disposition, trainability, and emotional support capabilities make them loving companions, enhancing the lives of those they accompany. Adaptations and strategies for training and care can facilitate a strong bond and smooth daily routines, ensuring that both the dog and family members thrive together.
If you are older (or don’t have a family network):
Planning for the needs of your Havanese in the event of unforeseen circumstances requires thoughtful consideration. Here are several key steps to ensure the care and well-being of your dog:
Identify a Caregiver: Choose a trusted friend or family member who is familiar with your Havanese. Make sure they are willing and able to take on the responsibility of caring for your pet.
Create a Care Guide: Document your Havanese's daily routine, including feeding schedules, dietary preferences, exercise needs, and any special medical requirements. Include information on their favorite toys and activities to help maintain their routine and emotional well-being.
Establish a Fund: Set aside financial resources for your dog's ongoing care. This can cover food, veterinary expenses, grooming, and other needs. Consider setting up a separate bank account or a dedicated fund specifically for your pet's care.
Emergency Contact Information: Provide your caregiver with your Havanese’s veterinary contact details, including any medical history and vaccination records. Ensure they know how to access emergency care if necessary.
Legal Arrangements: If you wish to ensure long-term care for your Havanese, consider including provisions for their care in your will or establishing a pet trust. Consult with a legal professional to understand the best options available to you.
Regular Check-Ins: Keep open communication with your designated caregiver. Regularly discuss your Havanese's health and any changes in routine or behavior to ensure they are well-prepared.
By taking these steps, you can provide peace of mind knowing that your Havanese will receive the love and care they deserve, no matter what happens.
Thinking through all these issues and understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision about whether a Havanese is the right fit for your family dynamics.
