Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Denise Leo. Post first published on May 22, 2023.
Are you considering getting a Havanese dog? As with any dog breed, it’s vital to research before committing to a furry friend.
One common question potential Havanese owners have is whether or not these dogs shed. In this blog post, we’ll explore the shedding tendencies of Havanese dogs and what experts have to say about the topic.
Do Havanese Shed?
Havanese dogs shed, but it’s not as noticeable as other dog breeds. According to the American Havanese Club, the breed is considered a “low-shedding” dog breed.
Havanese dogs have a double coat, with a soft, downy undercoat and a longer, silky topcoat. The Havanese does shed, but not as much as other dog breeds, and their shedding is generally not as noticeable.
Havanese dogs are relatively low-shedding but require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. The good news is that their fur is reasonably easy to maintain with daily brushing and regular bathing.
The Havanese breed is definitely on the lower end of the spectrum regarding shedding. However, it’s essential to remember that all dogs shed to some degree, and regular grooming is vital to keep shedding under control.
Havanese Dog Coat Explained
The American Kennel Club is the oldest purebred dog registry in the United States. According to the AKC’s breed standard for Havanese dogs, on the coat section
“Coat: Silky to the touch, the coat is soft and light in texture in both outer and undercoat,
although the outer coat carries slightly more weight. The coat is long, abundant and wavy. It
stands off the body slightly, but flows with movement. An ideal coat will permit the natural lines
of the dog to be seen. Puppy coat may be shorter and have a softer texture than adult coat. A
single, flat, frizzy or curly coat should be faulted. A coarse, wiry coat is a disqualification. A
short, smooth coat with or without furnishings is a disqualification. The coat may be corded.
Corded coats will naturally separate into wavy sections in young dogs and will in time develop
into cords. Adult corded dogs will be completely covered with a full coat of tassel-like cords. “
To help illustrate the coat characteristics of Havanese dogs, we’ve created a table outlining the breed standard for coat appearance:
Coat Characteristic | Description |
---|---|
Texture | Silky |
Length | Long, but not excessively so |
Undercoat | Soft and light in texture, not woolly or dense |
Color | Any color or combination of colors is acceptable |
Do Havanese Have a Double Coat?
Yes, Havanese dogs have a double coat. Their double coat comprises a soft, downy undercoat and a longer, silky topcoat. The undercoat provides insulation and helps regulate the dog’s body temperature, while the topcoat is a protective layer against the elements. The combination of these two coats gives Havanese dogs a distinct appearance and contributes to their overall charm.
The undercoat of a Havanese is typically lighter in color and has a soft, silky texture compared to the topcoat. It helps keep the dog warm in colder temperatures and provides extra protection. On the other hand, the top coat is longer and silkier, giving the Havanese its signature flowing and glamorous look. It helps repel water and dirt, keeping the dog’s skin and undercoat dry and clean.
Maintaining the double coat of a Havanese requires regular grooming. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling, as well as to remove loose hair.
Trimming the hair around the ears, paws, and tail is also necessary to maintain a neat appearance. It’s important to note that while the Havanese has a double coat, their shedding is generally minimal compared to other breeds, making them a good choice for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to dog hair.
Havanese Grooming Tips
To keep your Havanese looking their best, grooming their long, soft, and silky coat daily is essential. Using a soft brush or comb while your pup sits on your lap will prevent mats and tangles.
If you’re short on time, consider a shorter trim. The corners of their eyes should be gently cleaned daily to prevent tear-staining, and their ears should be checked regularly for excess wax or debris. Keep them clean and happy with occasional baths as needed.
The AKC recommends using a slicker brush and metal comb for grooming and advises against using scissors to trim the coat, which can result in an uneven appearance. They also recommend bathing Havanese dogs every 3-4 weeks.
“The long, soft, and silky coat of the Havanese needs to be groomed daily to be kept free of mats and tangles. This can be done by gently running a comb or soft brush over the dog while he is on your lap. Pet owners often choose to have their dog’s coat clipped to a short trim to reduce grooming time. The Havanese should also be bathed occasionally as needed. The corners of the eyes should be gently cleaned daily to prevent tear-stain of the lighter-colored hair in the area. Check the ears often to remove excess wax or accumulated debris, and wipe out the inside of the ear-flap with a slightly moistened gauze or paper towel.”
Conclusion: Does the Havanese Shed?
In conclusion, while Havanese dogs do shed, they are considered a low-shedding breed. Regular grooming is key to keeping shedding under control and maintaining the health of their coat. As with any breed, it’s important to research and consult with experts before committing to a new furry friend to ensure that their needs and grooming requirements align with your lifestyle.
To learn more about Havanese shedding and grooming, you can visit the websites of the American Havanese Club (www.havanese.org) and the American Kennel Club (www.akc.org). These resources provide valuable information on the breed’s characteristics, grooming tips, and responsible dog ownership.
Adopting a Havanese or any other breed is a long-term commitment, and it’s essential to consider factors beyond shedding, such as exercise needs, temperament, and compatibility with your family and living situation. By doing thorough research and understanding the breed’s needs, you can make a well-informed decision and ensure a happy and healthy life for you and your Havanese companion.
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References and Further Reading:
[1] American Kennel Club, Havanese Information.
[2] Havanese Rescue Inc.
[3] American Havanese Club