Havashu Breed Information

Grooming

The Havashu has a soft, flowing coat that adds to their charm—but keeping that coat in good shape takes regular care. While this breed is considered a low-shedding dog, its hair grows continuously and can mat easily without a consistent routine. Havashu grooming is manageable, but it does require a bit of time and attention. 

Most Havashus need brushing three to five times a week to keep their coat smooth and free of tangles. A pin brush or slicker brush works well, especially for reaching the longer sections of fur around the ears, under the legs, and along the chest—areas where mats tend to form if left unchecked. 

Bathing is typically needed every three to four weeks, depending on the dog’s lifestyle and coat texture. A gentle, dog-safe shampoo helps keep the skin healthy and the coat soft. After each bath, it’s important to brush the coat again while it’s drying to prevent knots and keep the hair from clumping together. 

Many owners opt for professional grooming every six to eight weeks, especially if they prefer to keep the coat trimmed in a puppy cut or similar style. A regular trim keeps the coat at a manageable length, reduces maintenance time, and helps maintain that tidy, well-kept look that suits the breed’s soft features. 

Ear care is another part of the routine. Since Havashus have drop ears with long hair, the area can trap moisture. Weekly checks and gentle cleaning help prevent irritation and reduce the chance of infection. 

Dental care is also important. Like many small breeds, Havashus can be prone to plaque and gum sensitivity. Brushing their teeth several times a week and offering dental chews or rinses can go a long way in supporting long-term oral health. 

Lastly, nail trimming should be done about once a month, or whenever the nails start to click on hard floors. Keeping their nails short helps with balance and prevents discomfort while walking. 

Exercise Needs

The Havashu may be small, but they’re packed with personality and enjoy staying active in short, fun bursts. This is a breed that thrives on interaction more than intense activity. You won’t need to carve out hours for exercise, but you will want to make space in your day for movement, games, and time spent together. 

Most Havashus stay balanced with 30 to 45 minutes of daily activity, broken up into light walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation. They’re quick to get the zoomies around the living room and just as quick to curl up for a nap when the energy settles. 

Their size makes them well-suited for apartment living, and they don’t require a yard—but they do need daily engagement. A short walk around the block, a game of tug, or a few rounds of fetch indoors often does the trick. What matters most is consistency and variety—not distance or intensity. 

Because of their smart and social nature, mental stimulation goes hand-in-hand with physical activity. Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, or practicing commands keep their minds engaged and help prevent boredom-related behaviors. A Havashu that stays busy is one that stays happy. 

Even on slower days, these dogs still enjoy being in the mix. They’re not the type to isolate or self-entertain for long periods. If left alone too much, they may bark or chew out of frustration. A predictable routine, plenty of attention, and a few small activities spaced throughout the day keep them emotionally grounded. 

Health

The Havashu is a generally healthy breed with a long lifespan and a sturdy little frame—especially when bred responsibly and cared for with consistency. Like all dogs, they have a few areas to watch, but most Havashu health issues are minor and manageable with routine care and early attention. 
Thanks to their mixed-breed background, some Havashus benefit from hybrid vigor, which can reduce the risk of certain inherited conditions.  

One of the more common concerns in small breeds is dental disease. The Havashu’s small mouth can lead to crowding, tartar buildup, and gum sensitivity if not cleaned regularly. Brushing several times a week, offering dental chews, and scheduling regular cleanings with a vet helps protect long-term oral health. 

Some Havashus may also be prone to allergies, which can show up as itchy skin, ear infections, or mild digestive upset. These are usually manageable with vet-recommended diets, grooming adjustments, or medication when needed. 

Because their ears are floppy and covered in soft hair, ear care is important. Weekly checks and gentle cleaning help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of infection—especially in warmer climates or during allergy seasons. 

Keeping your Havashu at a healthy weight is also key. These dogs are small, and even a few extra pounds can put stress on their joints or lead to discomfort over time. A balanced diet, portion control, and regular movement help keep everything in check. 

Lifespan

The Havashu has a relatively long lifespan, with most dogs living between 12 and 16 years. With consistent care, a healthy diet, and regular vet visits, many enjoy well over a decade of companionship—often staying lively and engaged well into their senior years. 

As a cross between the Havanese and the Shih Tzu, the Havashu inherits the sturdy build and steady health of both parent breeds. When raised in a stable environment and kept at a healthy weight, this is a breed that tends to age slowly and gracefully. Their energy may soften, but their need for closeness and connection stays just as strong. 

As they grow older, most Havashus transition smoothly into their senior years. Walks may get shorter, naps may grow longer, and play becomes more relaxed—but their emotional connection with their people remains steady. They continue to follow family rhythms, stay close by during quiet moments, and respond to familiar voices with that same soft presence they had as puppies. 

Supporting a Havashu through this stage of life doesn’t take much—just a few gentle adjustments. Softer bedding, shorter play sessions, and more frequent checkups can go a long way. Staying ahead of small issues with early intervention helps preserve comfort and quality of life. 

Their longevity isn’t just about physical health—it’s also about emotional stability. Havashus thrive when their world feels predictable, loving, and secure. They build deep bonds with their families and carry those connections with them through every stage of life. 

Training

The Havashu is a bright, emotionally aware dog that generally enjoys learning—especially when training feels like a shared activity rather than a task. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them one of the more easy to train small breeds, provided the approach is calm, consistent, and positive. 

Most Havashus respond best to positive reinforcement. Praise, treats, and encouragement help build confidence and create lasting habits. They don’t need tough corrections to understand what’s expected—in fact, harsh tones can cause them to shut down or become hesitant. A gentle voice and patient repetition go much farther with this breed. 

Basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leash walking are usually picked up quickly. Havashu training tends to go smoothly when it’s introduced early and built into the daily routine. Short, consistent sessions that blend into play or mealtimes work best. They don’t need a lot of structure—just enough to know where the boundaries are. 

House training is also manageable with this breed, especially when there’s a clear schedule in place. Crate training can help reinforce good habits, and regular outdoor breaks support success early on. Like many small dogs, a little patience goes a long way. 

Because the Havashu is emotionally tuned in, early socialization is just as important as obedience. Calm introductions to new people, places, and sounds help them stay confident and adaptable as they grow. They’re naturally friendly, but a well-socialized Havashu tends to be even more steady and trusting in unfamiliar settings. 

They also enjoy mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, simple tricks, and light training games can keep them engaged and prevent boredom. This is a breed that wants to stay involved—offering a little challenge now and then keeps their mind sharp and their energy focused.