Crested Havanese
The Crested Havanese is a cross between the Chinese Crested and the Havanese. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Crested Havanese. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a fine-boned, elegant toy breed that stands between 11 and 13 inches at the shoulder and weighs 8 to 12 pounds. This breed has a distinctively graceful appearance with a rectangular body shape, being slightly longer than tall. The head is wedge-shaped with a cleanly tapered muzzle, and the almond-shaped eyes are set wide apart on the skull. Two distinct varieties can be born in the same litter, distinguished primarily by their coat type. The breed displays either prick or drop ears depending on the variety, and their overall silhouette projects an air of delicate refinement. The hairless variety features smooth, soft skin over most of the body with characteristic hair only on specific areas: a crest of soft, flowing hair on the head, a plume on the lower two-thirds of the tail, and socks of hair on the feet extending to the pasterns and hocks. The amount of body hair on hairless dogs can vary from completely bare to having a fine down similar to that found on a human arm. The Powderpuff variety has a complete double coat consisting of a soft, silky undercoat and a longer outer coat that covers the entire body. Both varieties come in an impressive range of colors, with over 20 different color combinations possible, including spotted patterns and white markings on both skin and fur. The Chinese Crested has two distinct body types within the breed: the fine-boned, elegant deer type and the heavier-boned cobby type. Both types share the characteristic graceful movement and alert expression that define this breed. The hairless variety's exposed skin can range from pink to black or spotted, and requires special care including sun protection and moisturizing. Their unique appearance, sometimes described as exotic or even alien-like, has made them popular in both the show ring and as devoted companion animals.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Chinese Cresteds are generally compatible with families including children and other pets, though their small size and delicate bone structure mean interactions with young children should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury. They adapt remarkably well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, and are portable enough to accompany their owners on adventures. The breed does not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety if isolated. Their strong desire for companionship makes them ideal for owners who can provide plenty of attention and interaction throughout the day.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The hairless variety faces unique health challenges related to their exposed skin. Without protective fur, these dogs require regular application of dog-safe sunscreen when outdoors to prevent sunburn, and moisturizers to maintain skin health. They are prone to developing comedones, which are blocked pores similar to blackheads, and may develop acne that requires regular bathing and skin care. Dental issues are particularly prevalent in hairless Chinese Cresteds, as the gene responsible for hairlessness is linked to dental abnormalities including missing teeth and tusked canines. Regular dental care is essential for maintaining oral health in this breed.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy toy breed that stands between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the shoulder, with the ideal height being 9 to 10.5 inches. These dogs typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds, presenting a compact and slightly longer-than-tall body shape that gives them a balanced, harmonious appearance. The breed possesses a distinctive springy gait that reflects their lively, happy nature, often described as a unique rolling motion that is particularly eye-catching in motion. The head is moderately proportioned with a broad skull, and the muzzle is equal in length to the skull with a moderate stop. The large, almond-shaped eyes are dark brown and express an alert, soft, and intelligent character. The Havanese coat is perhaps the breed's most celebrated feature, often historically referred to as the Havana Silk Dog due to its remarkable texture. The coat is double but lightweight, consisting of a soft undercoat and a longer outer coat that can reach six to eight inches in length at maturity. The hair is wavy to curly and has a silky quality that is soft to the touch. Unlike many double-coated breeds, the Havanese coat is lighter and less dense, contributing to the breed's ability to tolerate warmer climates. The coat can also be corded for show purposes, creating long, distinctive rope-like strands. Drop ears are set high and covered with long, silky hair, framing the face beautifully. The Havanese comes in one of the widest color varieties of any breed, with over 20 accepted color combinations recognized. Colors include white, black, chocolate, cream, gold, red, silver, blue, and various combinations including parti-colors and tricolors. The tail is set high and carried arched forward over the back, covered with a plume of long, silky hair. The overall impression is one of a cheerful, charming small dog with an expressive face and a coat that requires regular attention to maintain its beautiful condition. The breed's appearance reflects its long history as a companion dog treasured by Cuban aristocracy.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Havanese's social nature makes them excellent family dogs who typically get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly socialized. They adapt well to various living situations and are particularly well-suited to apartment life due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. However, their strong attachment to their families means they do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and are prone to developing separation anxiety if isolated regularly. The breed requires consistent companionship and does best in homes where someone is present for much of the day.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns in Havanese include liver shunt, a congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver through an abnormal vessel, preventing proper detoxification and nutrient processing. Treatment can include dietary management or surgical correction depending on severity. Heart murmurs, often associated with mitral valve disease, can develop as Havanese age and should be monitored through regular veterinary checkups. Hypothyroidism affects some dogs in the breed, causing metabolic changes manageable with daily medication. Dental disease is common in toy breeds including Havanese, making regular dental care and professional cleanings essential.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Crested Havanese may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Chinese Crested and Havanese to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.