People have started taking more interest in small breeds like the havapoo; mainly because they’re so convenient and fit easily into apartment living and busy routines. Havapoos also have an adorable teddy bear look, which is a big part of their appeal. But what is a havapoo as a pet?

Only after you understand their personality, temperament, care needs, and activity level can you decide if a havapoo is the right dog for you.

What Is a Havapoo and Where Do These Dogs Come From?

According to the experts at Dog Academy, the havapoo breed doesn’t have centuries of history behind it. It’s a designer dog, which means breeders intentionally paired two purebred parents to try to combine the best traits of both. In this case, that’s the Havanese, a cheerful little companion dog from Cuba, and the poodle, one of the smartest dog breeds around.

Breeders started mixing these two dogs sometime in the last couple of decades to create a small, friendly, low-shedding companion that would be a good fit for families and apartment dwellers alike.

Since the havapoo isn’t recognized by major kennel clubs as its own official breed, you won’t find strict breed standards. That means individual dogs can vary quite a bit depending on which traits they inherit from each parent.

What Does a Havapoo Look Like?

Havapoos are small dogs. Most of them weigh around 7 to 20 pounds when fully grown, although some can grow larger depending on the poodle parent. Their height usually falls between 8 and 15 inches at the shoulder.

As for their coat, it can be wavy or curly, and it often takes after the poodle side more than the Havanese side, which is why so many havapoos are considered fairly low-shedding. You’ll see them in all kinds of colors too, including cream, white, black, brown, apricot, and multicolor combinations.

Their faces tend to be round and expressive, with floppy ears and a button nose that gives them that classic teddy bear look people love so much.

What Is a Havapoo’s Personality Like?

The havapoo is affectionate, cheerful, and very people-focused. They like being part of family life and are the kind of dog that follows their favorite person from room to room. Many also enjoy cuddling after playtime.

They are intelligent and can get bored when they have nothing to do. Puzzle toys, short training sessions, fetch, and games can help keep them busy.

Many havapoos get along well with children and other pets when they are properly introduced and socialized. Because they are small, however, children should be taught to handle them gently.

Since havapoos tend to love company, they shouldn’t be left alone for long stretches regularly. Left alone for too long, they can quickly become anxious, bark more, or develop unwanted habits from boredom.

What Is a Havapoo Like When It Comes to Exercise Needs?

Havapoos don’t need hours of intensive exercise, but they still need daily activity. Short walks plus indoor play are often enough to keep them content and happy.

Mental activity is just as important. Teaching tricks, practicing commands, or using food puzzles are great ways to work out a havapoo’s brain.

Are Havapoos Easy to Train?

Havapoos are generally quick learners. They respond well to positive training that uses praise, treats, toys, and play as rewards.

We recommend starting early with house training, leash manners, basic commands, and socialization. Keep sessions short so your dog doesn’t lose interest. Avoid harsh corrections, as they can make training stressful and may damage trust.

How Do You Groom a Havapoo?

Havapoos are low-shedding, but that doesn’t make their coats low-maintenance. Their soft, wavy hair can tangle and mat, especially around the ears, chest, legs, and belly. Brushing may be needed every day or several times a week, depending on the coat.

Regular trims can make grooming easier. You should also check the ears for redness, smell, or extra moisture and keep the hair around the eyes clean.

Dental care is extremely important, too. Small dogs can be prone to tooth and gum problems, so regular tooth brushing and routine dental checks should be part of their care.

What Health Problems Can Havapoos Have?

Havapoos are generally healthy, but they can inherit certain problems from either parent, just like any designer breed. These may include eye conditions, dental disease, kneecap problems, and some joint issues.

Routine vet visits can help catch problems early. A balanced diet, regular exercise, dental care, and a healthy body weight also support long-term health.

Many havapoos live around 12 to 15 years, although every dog is different.

Is a Havapoo Right for You?

A havapoo can be a lovely choice if you want a small, affectionate dog and have time to give them plenty of attention. These dogs can do well in apartments or larger homes as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, grooming, and companionship.

The main thing to remember is that a havapoo likes being included in daily activities. This is not a dog that wants to spend most of the day alone. If you are ready for regular grooming, patient training, daily play, and lots of time together, a havapoo can become a cheerful and devoted member of the family.