Discover everything about Havapoo

Character & Temperament

Havapoos are considered outgoing, playful, and strongly people-oriented; they seek a lot of proximity to their primary caregiver and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Depending on the litter, temperament can range from the calmer Havanese type to the more alert Poodle type. Most are friendly toward strangers and other dogs, without a pronounced protective or guarding instinct. Consistent yet affectionate training is well received by most Havapoos.

What Awaits You

Depending on the Poodle parent, Havapoos weigh between 3 and 7 kilograms and remain compact throughout their lives. They are considered affectionate, eager to learn, and relatively balanced, as both parent breeds are classified as family-friendly. The coat ranges from smooth-wavy Havanese type to dense-curly Poodle type, and significantly different coat types can occur within the same litter. The Havapoo is not an FCI-recognized breed, but a hybrid breed without an established breed standard. Despite the lower shed rate of many Poodle crosses, the Havapoo is not allergy-friendly; saliva and dander allergens remain present.

Housing & Care

Due to its high suitability for urban life and compact size, the Havapoo is well-suited for a city apartment, but also feels at home in a house with a garden. It is considered very family- and child-friendly, which allows it to integrate smoothly into a household with children. When interacting with other dogs, it generally shows a friendly and agreeable nature. Daily life with other animals is usually uncomplicated, as it possesses virtually no hunting or guarding instinct. However, you should keep its strong human orientation in mind: if left alone for too long, the Havapoo is prone to separation anxiety.

Training & Education

When training the Havapoo, you will achieve good results using a consistent yet loving approach. Because it is eager to learn, it responds well to training. To meet its exercise needs, it requires two short to medium walks every day. Mental stimulation is crucial: in addition to physical exercise, it regularly needs brainwork, as simple fetch games are not enough. In daily life, you must ensure that staying alone is practiced step by step, as it tends to develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Keep in mind that temperament can vary from litter to litter, ranging between the calmer Havanese type and the more spirited Poodle type. Grooming requires brushing two to three times a week, as well as trimming every six to eight weeks if it has the denser Poodle-type coat. Furthermore, you should regularly check its floppy ears, as moisture easily collects underneath them.

Nutrition & Care

Depending on its characteristics, the coat requires brushing two to three times a week, plus a grooming appointment every six to eight weeks for denser Poodle-type coats. Havapoos need two short to medium walks daily as well as mental stimulation; simple fetch games are not enough for them. Ears should be checked regularly, as moisture easily builds up under the fur.