Origin and Development

The Havapoo, a small designer dog, originated in the United States during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. This breed was developed by crossing a Havanese with a Poodle, typically a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The purpose of this intentional crossbreeding was to create an affectionate, low-shedding companion dog, a goal that was particularly important for individuals with allergies.

Although the Havapoo has gained popularity, it is not recognized as a standardized breed by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), or Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This means that there are no specific breed standards for the Havapoo, allowing for a more flexible approach to the breed's appearance and temperament.

Physical Characteristics

Havapoos typically stand at a height of 20-29 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 1.8-5.9 kg. Their coat can range from curly (similar to the Poodle) to wavy or silky (similar to the Havanese). Common colors include black, white, cream, chocolate, red, apricot, sable, silver, parti-color, phantom, and brindle. The variety in coat texture and color adds to the charm and diversity of the breed.

Havapoos generally shed very little and produce lower levels of the allergen Can f 1, making them a suitable choice for individuals with allergies. The Poodle's hypoallergenic coat is a significant contributing factor to the Havapoo's reduced shedding and lower allergen levels.

Temperament and Personality

Havapoos are known for their friendly, intelligent, playful, affectionate, and outgoing personalities.

This breed is also adaptable to apartment living, making it a suitable choice for city dwellers and those with limited space.

These dogs are highly trainable, which is beneficial for both owners and the dog. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, and they can excel in obedience training, agility, and other canine sports.

Health Considerations

Like all dogs, Havapoos are prone to certain health conditions. Potential inherited conditions include patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, heart issues, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and dental problems. Responsible breeders perform health testing on parent dogs through organizations such as the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) to minimize the risk of these issues.

Patellar luxation, for example, is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place, which can cause pain and difficulty with movement. Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness.

Lifespan and Care

The average lifespan of a Havapoo is 12-16 years, which is considered average for a small dog breed.

While they can adapt to apartment living, they do require daily walks and playtime to satisfy their need for mental and physical stimulation.

Generations and Breeding

Havapoos can be categorized into different generations based on their breeding. F1 Havapoos are a 50% Havanese and 50% Poodle cross. F1B Havapoos are the result of an F1 Havapoo backcrossed to a Poodle, typically resulting in a more consistently curly and low-shedding coat. Multigenerational Havapoos are the result of breeding two Havapoos together, which can lead to a more predictable temperament and coat characteristics.

Responsible breeders focus on maintaining the desired traits of the breed, such as a friendly temperament and a low-shedding coat, while also addressing potential health issues through health testing and careful breeding practices. This ensures that the Havapoo remains a healthy and desirable companion for many years.

Buying a Havapoo: What to Consider

• Ask about the breeder's experience and the health testing performed on the parent dogs. Responsible breeders should be able to provide documentation of their breeding dogs' health clearances.
• Request to see the puppy's parents and observe their temperament and coat condition. This can give you a good indication of what to expect from the puppy.
• Ensure the breeder is willing to provide a health guarantee and support you with any questions or concerns after the purchase. A reputable breeder will be invested in the long-term health and happiness of their dogs.
• Consider the cost of ownership, including food, grooming, and veterinary care.
• Think about your lifestyle and living situation. Ensure that you have the time and space to accommodate a Havapoo's needs for exercise and socialization.

By choosing a responsible breeder and properly caring for your Havapoo, you can enjoy a loving and loyal companion for many years. This breed's combination of intelligence, affection, and adaptability makes it a wonderful choice for many pet owners.