Havanese Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Havanese breeding guide comprehensive information. Cuba's national dog breeding. Velcro dog breeding programs. Toy breed companion dog breeding. Hypoallergenic dog breeding claims examined. CRITICAL HEALTH ALERTS: Patellar luxation extremely common - affects many Havanese. Grade 1-4 severity scale. OFA patellar evaluation mandatory before breeding. Grade 2+ dogs should not be bred. Surgery often needed for Grade 3-4. Liver shunt (portosystemic shunt) serious concern: Affects some bloodlines. Bile acid testing recommended. Symptoms include poor growth, seizures, behavioral changes. Can be fatal if untreated. Surgery possible if caught early. Heart murmurs common: Annual cardiac evaluation important. Many benign but must be evaluated. Mitral valve disease in older dogs. Early detection improves management. Size and characteristics: 7-13 lbs ideal weight. 8.5-11.5 inches tall. Toy breed but sturdy build. Silky double coat requires daily maintenance. All colors acceptable - no color restrictions or health links. Grooming reality: Daily brushing mandatory to prevent painful matting. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Budget $75-150 monthly for grooming. Many owners keep in puppy cut for easier maintenance. Coat mats easily around ears, armpits, groin. Neglected coats cause skin infections. Velcro dog temperament: Bred for companionship - follows owner everywhere. Separation anxiety common. Not suitable for families gone 8+ hours daily. Needs constant human interaction. Excellent therapy dogs due to devotion. Perfect for retirees or work-from-home owners. Cuban heritage: Only breed native to Cuba. National dog of Cuba. Nearly extinct - rescued from 11 dogs. All modern Havanese descend from these survivors. Genetic bottleneck creates health concerns. Preservation breeding important for genetic diversity. Eye problems: Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in some lines. Annual CERF exams recommended. Cataracts can develop early. Cherry eye occasional. Tear staining common due to facial structure. Dental issues: Small mouths prone to overcrowding. Retained baby teeth common. Early dental disease without proper care. Regular cleanings essential. Budget for dental work. Allergies and sensitivities: Food allergies common. Environmental allergies cause itching. Sensitive stomachs - diet changes must be gradual. Some lines have multiple sensitivities. Exercise needs: Moderate exercise - 20-30 minutes daily. Loves to play but not hyperactive. Good apartment dogs if exercised. Can compete in agility despite size. Mental stimulation important. Training considerations: Intelligent but can be stubborn. Positive reinforcement essential. Housebreaking can be challenging - consistency crucial. Crate training recommended. Early socialization prevents shyness. Can be barky without training. Breeding specifics: Small litters typical 1-5 puppies. C-sections sometimes needed due to puppy size. First heat around 6-8 months but wait until 2 years to breed. Males mature around 12-15 months. Health testing requirements: Patellar luxation evaluation (OFA) mandatory. Annual eye exams (CERF/OFA). Hip dysplasia evaluation (OFA). Cardiac evaluation. Hearing test (BAER) recommended. Liver function testing for shunt screening. Genetic testing available for some conditions. Pregnancy and whelping: 63 day gestation typical. Small litters mean larger puppies - dystocia risk. Monitor closely during whelping. Have emergency vet ready. Good mothers typically. Puppies born 3-6 ounces. Rapid early growth. Early neurological stimulation beneficial. Puppy development: Eyes open 10-14 days. Walking by 3 weeks. Weaning 6-8 weeks. Socialization window 3-14 weeks critical. Expose to various stimuli early. Puppies should stay with dam until 10-12 weeks for proper development. Color genetics: All colors acceptable in Havanese. No color-linked health issues. Chocolate requires double recessive. Parti-colors common. Colors can change as puppy matures. Adult color often different from puppy color. Silver gene causes color dilution with age. Lifespan and aging: 14-16 years typical. Some live to 18+. Generally healthy breed if well-bred. Senior issues include heart disease, kidney disease, cancer. Cushings disease in older dogs. Climate considerations: Sensitive to extreme temperatures. Cannot tolerate excessive heat. Winter coats needed in cold climates. Indoor dogs primarily. Air conditioning important in summer. Special considerations: Resource guarding can develop - early training prevents. Can be snippy with rough children - supervise interactions. Better with older respectful children. Multi-dog households work well - Havanese enjoy canine company. Show vs pet breeding: Show coats require extensive maintenance. Pet puppies often sold with spay/neuter contracts. Limited registration common for pet puppies. Full registration for show/breeding prospects only. International breeding: Popular worldwide. Different standards in different countries. European lines may differ from American. Health testing requirements vary by country. Import/export requires understanding quarantine laws. Breeding age limits: Females 2-7 years optimal. Males 2-8 years. Avoid breeding after 7 years. Annual health checks for breeding dogs. Retire if health issues develop. Havanese rescue considerations: Many in rescue due to grooming requirements. Behavior issues from lack of socialization. Support rescue through responsible breeding. Screen buyers carefully to prevent dogs entering rescue. Petmeetly connects Havanese breeders worldwide. Find health-tested Havanese studs. Connect with ethical Havanese breeders. Cuban national dog preservation network. Responsible Havanese breeding partnerships in USA, Canada, Europe, UK, Australia.