Havapoo 2025 Guide: Temperament, Care & Training 🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

The Havapoo, also known as the Poovanese, is a charming hybrid of the Havanese and Poodle. This playful, low-shedding breed combines the best traits of both parent dogs—affection, intelligence, and a hypoallergenic coat. In this full 2025 guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about raising and caring for a Havapoo. 🐾

📜 Breed Origins

Like many designer dogs, the Havapoo was bred to blend the Poodle’s intelligence and non-shedding coat with the Havanese’s playful, people-loving personality. This breed has gained popularity thanks to its small size, adaptability, and allergy-friendly coat. 🧬

🧠 Temperament & Personality

The Havapoo is affectionate, happy, and eager to please. Common traits include:

• Friendly: Gets along well with children, adults, and pets
• Intelligent: Quick to learn commands and tricks
• Playful: Enjoys games, toys, and interactive attention
• Companionable: Craves closeness—ideal for lapdog lovers

🏡 Ideal Home Environment

Havapoos thrive in small to medium-sized households:

• Perfect for apartments, condos, or houses
• Great for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners
• Needs consistent attention—may develop separation anxiety

They fit into almost any environment—as long as they’re not left alone too long. 🏡

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming

The Havapoo may inherit a curly, wavy, or soft coat that requires regular grooming:

• Brushing: 3–4 times per week to prevent tangles and mats
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks with a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo
• Professional Grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for trims and hygiene
• Ear/Nail Care: Weekly cleaning and monthly trims

🏃♂️ Exercise & Enrichment

This breed is moderately active and needs daily play and engagement:

• 30–45 minutes of walks and playtime daily
• Trick training, obedience, and puzzle games
• Short agility or scent games indoors or in small yards

They don’t require intense workouts, but they do need fun and variety. 🧠

🍗 Nutrition & Feeding

Feed a high-quality small-breed formula that supports energy, coat, and digestion:

• Meat-first protein (chicken, fish, turkey)
• Omega-3s for coat health
• Prebiotics and fiber for digestive support

Divide into two meals daily. For personalized nutrition advice, visit Ask A Vet. 🍽️

🩺 Common Health Concerns

Havapoos are generally healthy but may inherit issues from either parent:

• Patellar Luxation: Small breeds are prone to knee instability
• Dental Disease: Daily brushing and regular cleanings are recommended
• Allergies: Skin and food sensitivities may develop

Routine checkups and symptom tracking through Ask A Vet can help maintain long-term health. 🩺

🎓 Training & Socialization

These dogs are fast learners but may be slightly stubborn:

• Start socialization and potty training early
• Use gentle, reward-based training with food or praise
• Keep sessions short, fun, and consistent

🧘♂️ Emotional Needs

This is a deeply attached companion breed. Meet their emotional needs with:

• Predictable routines and calm interactions
• Interactive toys when alone or unsupervised
• Reinforced independence training to avoid anxiety

For behavioral guidance, connect with a vet at Ask A Vet. 🧠

🏁 Final Thoughts: Is the Havapoo Right for You?

If you’re looking for a smart, cuddly, low-shedding companion that blends beauty and brains, the Havapoo could be your ideal pup. With regular grooming, gentle training, and lots of love, these hybrids thrive in nearly any home. ❤️

Need expert help planning your Havapoo’s care? Start a consult today at Ask A Vet!