All about Havashu dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Havashu" Breed (parent breeds: "Havanese" × "Shih Tzu")

The average weight for a Havashu (Havanese x Shih Tzu mix) is generally between 7 to 14 pounds.

Wondering about the Havashu height? As a delightful cross between a Havanese and a Shih Tzu, the average size of a Havashu typically falls into the small companion dog category. When fully grown, you can expect your Havashu to stand between 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. This is a general range, as the exact height can vary.

Havashu colors encompass a wide and beautiful spectrum, inherited from their Havanese and Shih Tzu parentage. While not an AKC-recognized breed itself, understanding the colors accepted in its parent breeds provides insight into common and rare Havashu coat types. Potential adopters often compare coat types and pricing, with rarer variations commanding higher interest.

The Havashu, a delightful blend of the Havanese and Shih Tzu, is celebrated for its charming and affectionate personality. This small companion breed typically exhibits a friendly and outgoing temperament, making them wonderful additions to most households. Havashu personality is characterized by their strong loyalty to their families, often forming deep bonds and enjoying being at the heart of household activities. They are generally sociable, thriving on interaction and attention, and are known to be quite playful.Their adaptable nature makes them well-suited for apartment living, provided they receive regular short walks and indoor playtime to satisfy their moderate exercise needs. Havashu temperament is generally good-natured with children, especially if raised with them or introduced properly. They tend to be patient and enjoy playful interactions, though supervision is always recommended with very young children. With other pets, Havashus usually get along well due to their easygoing disposition, often enjoying the company of other dogs and even cats. Overall, the Havashu is a loving, gentle, and happy-go-lucky companion eager to please its family.

Havashu Temperament: A Playful and Affectionate CompanionThe Havashu temperament is a delightful blend, inheriting the best traits from its Havanese and Shih Tzu parents. These charming little dogs are renowned for being exceptionally friendly and sociable, making them wonderful companions.Expect your Havashu to be very loyal and devoted to its family, often forming strong bonds. They thrive on human interaction and are typically quite adaptable to apartment living, provided they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their moderate energy levels mean they enjoy playtime but are also content to cuddle on the couch.Regarding behavior with children, Havashus are generally good-natured and patient, especially when socialized early and raised in a household where children are taught to interact gently. Similarly, their behavior with other pets is usually amicable; they often get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if introduced properly.While generally eager to please, some Havashus may display a touch of the Shih Tzu's famous stubbornness, requiring consistent and positive reinforcement training. They are also quite sensitive to their owners' emotions and don't do well with harsh corrections. Early socialization and consistent, gentle training are key to nurturing their best qualities. Overall, the Havashu is a loving, playful, and intelligent companion dog perfect for those seeking an affectionate and adaptable furry friend.

Havashu Care: This adorable Havanese-Shih Tzu mix is a wonderful companion with specific care needs to ensure a happy, healthy life. Here’s how to provide the best daily maintenance for your Havashu:

Havashu Activity Level: Moderate & Adaptable

I would rate the Havashu's "Size" trait a 2.The Havashu is a true toy breed, inheriting its diminutive stature from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu. They typically stand between 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh a mere 7 to 15 pounds. Their body structure is compact and sturdy, but undeniably small. Compared to even other small companion dogs, the Havashu consistently falls into the very small category. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for apartment living, as they require minimal space. Their small size also makes them excellent travel companions, fitting easily into airline-approved carriers and being portable for various excursions. For households with space constraints, the Havashu is an ideal choice, as they don't demand much room to thrive.

I would rate the Havashu's grooming requirements as a 7.While not the absolute highest maintenance, they are far from low-maintenance. Their heritage from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu means they inherit a long, silky, non-shedding (or very low-shedding) coat that is highly prone to tangling and matting. This necessitates daily brushing to prevent painful knots. Without consistent brushing, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a full trim is essential. Their long ears are susceptible to infections if not regularly cleaned, and like many small breeds, dental care is crucial. While not typically prone to skin fold issues like some brachycephalic breeds, their facial hair can lead to tear staining that needs regular cleaning to prevent irritation. This breed requires frequent, dedicated attention to their coat and overall hygiene compared to many other companion dogs.

I would rate the Havashu's exercise requirements at a 3.While these charming hybrids certainly enjoy playtime and daily walks, their needs lean towards the lower end of the spectrum. Both parent breeds, the Havanese and Shih Tzu, are known for being companion dogs with moderate to low energy levels, and the Havashu generally inherits this disposition. They thrive on short, daily walks (around 20-30 minutes) and interactive indoor play sessions. Their smaller size and potential for brachycephalic traits (inherited from the Shih Tzu) mean they are not built for strenuous, sustained movement or intense physical demands. Overheating can be a concern, especially in warm weather, and owners should be mindful of any respiratory limitations. While they can be mentally stimulated with training and puzzle toys, their physical requirements are easily met with routine, moderate activity rather than demanding structured routines. They are generally content to relax with their family after a bit of exercise.

The Havashu, a blend of Havanese and Shih Tzu, would likely rate around a 6 for watchdog ability. While both parent breeds are known for their alertness and tendency to bark at unfamiliar sights and sounds, their small size and generally friendly disposition temper their effectiveness as true deterrents. Havashus are quite observant and will certainly notice when someone approaches the house or a strange noise occurs. Their barking can be persistent and serves as a good early warning system, letting their owners know that something is amiss. They do possess a degree of territorial instinct, often making their presence known to strangers through vocalizations, but this is more about announcing an arrival than actively confronting a threat. They are not typically aggressive and are more prone to being a "passive companion" that alerts rather than a "guard dog" that deters through intimidation. Their primary role is often to be a beloved family member, and while they excel at providing meaningful early warnings through their vocalizations, they lack the physical presence or inherent protective drive to be considered highly effective at deterring intruders beyond the initial bark.

Rating: 8/10The Havashu, inheriting traits from the Havanese and Shih Tzu, generally scores quite high on the "Good with Other Dogs" scale. Both parent breeds are known for their companionable nature and tend to be quite amiable with other canines, and the Havashu typically follows suit. They are often playful and tolerant, showing little to no inherent aggression or strong dominance tendencies. While individual personalities will always vary, most Havashus are open to interacting with unfamiliar dogs, often approaching with a curious and friendly demeanor. Their adaptability to different sizes and energy levels is also a strong point; they can often be seen happily romping with larger, boisterous dogs or gently engaging with smaller, calmer companions, provided the other dog is also well-socialized.That being said, a rating of 8, rather than a perfect 10, acknowledges the importance of early socialization. Like any breed, a Havashu that is not properly exposed to various dogs and environments during its formative months might develop shyness or apprehension, which could manifest as barking or avoidance. While they thrive in canine company and are excellent candidates for multi-dog households, they still benefit from careful introductions and continued positive reinforcement to ensure peaceful coexistence, especially if one dog has a significantly different play style or energy level. They are not typically a breed that *requires* intensive training to coexist, but rather, they benefit from standard socialization practices that enhance their already good-natured disposition.

I would rate the Havashu's "Energetic" trait as a 4.Havashus are generally on the more laid-back side when it comes to companion dogs, inheriting a moderate energy level from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu. While they are playful and enjoy engaging with their owners, their bursts of activity are typically short-lived. They have a decent endurance for walks around the neighborhood and some light romping in the yard, but they aren't built for prolonged strenuous activity or intense athletic pursuits. Their need for physical stimulation is moderate; daily walks and interactive play sessions are usually sufficient to keep them content. The brachycephalic anatomy, inherited primarily from the Shih Tzu, can affect their stamina and exercise tolerance, making them more prone to overheating and respiratory distress during vigorous or prolonged physical activity, thus limiting their ability to be truly "energetic" compared to many other breeds. They prefer comfortable indoor environments and will happily snuggle up after a moderate playtime.

## Havashu Training Requirements Rating: 5/10The Havashu rates a 5 out of 10 for training requirements, placing them in the moderate category. This breed is generally intelligent, inheriting a good capacity for learning from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu. They respond well to positive reinforcement, and praise, treats, and toys are highly effective motivators. Their desire to please their owners, particularly from the Havanese side, makes them fairly responsive to commands.However, the "sometimes stubborn" streak from the Shih Tzu parent can manifest, especially if they're not adequately motivated or if the training isn't kept engaging. Their attention span, while decent, isn't endless, so short, frequent training sessions are far more effective than long, drawn-out ones. Consistency is absolutely crucial; any slack in rules or commands will likely be exploited. While not exceptionally demanding, they aren't a "set it and forget it" breed. They are generally beginner-friendly, but a new owner should be prepared to invest consistent effort in training and socialization. They will thrive with structured routines and clear expectations, rather than requiring experienced handling, a patient and consistent owner will see great results.

I would rate the Havashu's "Playful" trait a 9 out of 10. This delightful hybrid inherits a wonderful blend of playful spirit from both its Havanese and Shih Tzu parents. Havashus are generally quite spirited and love to engage in games and interact with their families. They have a natural enthusiasm for playtime, often eagerly responding to toys, chasing balls, and participating in short, energetic bursts of activity. While not hyperactive, they enjoy being the center of attention during play and will readily seek out interaction, often bringing toys to their owners. Their overall enthusiasm in daily life is high, especially when it comes to being involved with their human companions, making them wonderfully fun-loving and engaging companions.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Havashu as a 9.The Havashu, inheriting the people-pleasing and cuddly nature of both the Havanese and Shih Tzu, is a breed that genuinely thrives on affection. They exhibit a strong desire for human companionship, often following their owners from room to room and seeking out physical closeness through cuddling and lap-sitting. Their loyalty is palpable, and they are generally quite sensitive to their owner's emotions, offering comfort when they sense distress. This breed is far from independent; they are deeply bonded with their families and can become anxious if left alone for extended periods. They are not merely tolerant of affection; they actively solicit and bask in it, making them an incredibly loving and people-oriented companion.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Havashu a 9 out of 10.The Havashu, inheriting the generally amiable and gentle dispositions of both the Havanese and Shih Tzu, tends to be highly compatible with other pets. Their low prey drive is a significant factor, making them less likely to view smaller animals as game. While individual personalities will always vary, Havashus are not typically prone to strong resource guarding, especially when properly socialized from a young age. They are naturally sociable and generally enjoy companionship, often adapting well to multi-pet households where they can form strong bonds with both canine and feline housemates. While early socialization is beneficial for any breed to ensure well-rounded behavior, the Havashu usually requires less intensive training and supervision to coexist peacefully compared to breeds with higher drives or more dominant tendencies. They generally prefer to be part of a pack, even if that pack includes a cat.

The Havashu rates an 8 out of 10 for "Good with Children."This breed typically inherits a wonderful blend of traits from its Havanese and Shih Tzu parents, making them generally excellent companions for families with children. They tend to be naturally affectionate, gentle, and patient, which are crucial qualities for interacting with kids. Their playful nature means they often enjoy engaging in games, but their energy levels are usually moderate enough not to be overwhelming. They are generally tolerant of noise and the sometimes-less-than-gentle handling that can come from younger children, especially if properly socialized from a young age. While their small size means supervision is always recommended with very young children to prevent accidental injury to the dog, the Havashu is not prone to snappiness or aggression. They thrive on companionship and are usually eager to be part of family activities, making them highly compatible with children of various ages. While natural gentleness is a strong characteristic, as with any breed, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training will further enhance their ability to thrive in a busy family environment.

Rating: 8/10The Havashu, inheriting traits from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu, is generally a highly sociable and welcoming breed with strangers. They tend to be naturally outgoing, eager to make new friends, and readily adapt to new people and environments. While individual personalities vary, most Havashus will greet unfamiliar adults with tail wags and a curious sniff, often seeking attention and affection. They are not typically prone to excessive barking or guarding behavior with guests, preferring to be part of the social gathering. Their friendly nature makes them quite adaptable in public or guest-filled environments, generally enjoying the hustle and bustle. While early socialization is always beneficial for any dog to ensure well-rounded behavior, the Havashu's inherent friendliness means they are typically comfortable with strangers without extensive, specific training for this trait.

The Havashu, a charming cross between a Havanese and a Shih Tzu, rates a 3 for "Winter" tolerance. This low rating is primarily due to several factors. Both parent breeds are small and have relatively thin coats for their size, lacking the dense undercoat that provides significant insulation. While their long outer coats can offer some protection, they are not designed for extreme cold. Their small body size means a higher surface area to volume ratio, leading to rapid heat loss. Furthermore, the brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy inherited from the Shih Tzu, and potentially the Havanese, can make breathing more difficult in cold, dry air and increases the risk of respiratory issues. These dogs have minimal body fat for insulation.Consequently, Havashus are highly sensitive to cold and are at a significant risk of hypothermia if exposed to low temperatures for extended periods. They require substantial special care during winter months compared to other companion dogs. It is crucial to limit their time outdoors, especially in freezing temperatures, and to always provide warm clothing such as sweaters or coats. Their paws should also be protected from ice and salt with booties. Indoor heating should be maintained at a comfortable level, and their sleeping areas should be warm and draft-free. While they can enjoy very brief outdoor excursions for potty breaks or short walks in mild winter weather (above freezing), extended play or activities in truly cold climates are not recommended for their safety and well-being.

I would rate the Havashu's summer tolerance at a 3.While not as extremely sensitive as some breeds, the Havashu inherits brachycephalic tendencies from both the Havanese and especially the Shih Tzu. This shortened muzzle can significantly impact their ability to cool themselves efficiently through panting, making them much more susceptible to overheating and heatstroke. Their furry double coat, while lovely, also acts as an insulator, further hindering heat dissipation. They require significant modifications to outdoor activity during warm weather, with short walks relegated to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. Midday outings are extremely risky and should be avoided entirely. Air conditioning or a cool, shaded environment with plenty of fresh water is essential for these dogs during hot weather, even indoors. Compared to many other companion dogs, the Havashu absolutely requires special and diligent care in summer months to prevent potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

I'd rate the Havashu's healthiness a 7 out of 10.While not entirely free from health concerns, the Havashu generally benefits from the hybrid vigor of combining two relatively healthy small breeds, the Havanese and the Shih Tzu. They are typically considered a fairly robust companion dog, especially when compared to some single purebreds that have more pronounced health challenges.However, like their parent breeds, they can be predisposed to certain issues. From the Havanese side, patellar luxation, eye conditions like cataracts, and heart murmurs can occur. From the Shih Tzu side, brachycephalic airway syndrome (though often less severe in a crossbreed), dental problems, and ear infections are potential concerns. Skin allergies and joint issues are also seen in both breeds and thus can affect Havashus. Their longer coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and skin problems, which could be considered a moderate maintenance need.Their life expectancy is generally good, often ranging from 12 to 15 years, which is a positive indicator of overall health. Responsible breeding practices, including health screening of parent dogs, significantly contribute to reducing the incidence of hereditary diseases in Havashus. With proper preventive care, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups, a Havashu can enjoy a long and healthy life, making them generally less "high-maintenance" in terms of significant health crises compared to some other breeds, though their grooming needs do require consistent attention.

Rating: 4Explanation: The Havashu, inheriting traits from both the Havanese and Shih Tzu, is generally a more companion-oriented breed with a moderate "protective" trait. While they are often alert and will bark at new sounds or the arrival of strangers, their territorial instincts are not particularly strong, and their small size limits their effectiveness as a deterrent. Their loyalty to owners is high, but their reaction to strangers is typically one of curiosity or initial shyness rather than aggression. They are more likely to greet a stranger with a tail wag (eventually) than to display fierce protective behavior. Therefore, while they make good "alert" watchdogs due to their barking, they are not suitable as guard dogs and cannot offer meaningful physical protection in a household setting. Their primary role is that of a loving and devoted companion.

I would rate the Havashu's "Life Span" trait a 9 out of 10.The Havashu, inheriting from the Havanese and Shih Tzu, is considered a long-lived breed among companion dogs. Their average life expectancy typically ranges from 12 to 16 years, and it's not uncommon for them to live even longer with proper care. Both parent breeds are known for their longevity, and the hybrid vigor often associated with mixed breeds can sometimes contribute to a more robust health profile, potentially extending their lifespan further by reducing the incidence of some breed-specific genetic issues. While they can be prone to common small dog ailments like dental disease and patellar luxation, these are often manageable with responsible breeding, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle. Their generally good health and extended lifespan make them a breed that offers many years of companionship.