Ewokian
The Ewokian is a cross between the Havanese and the Pomeranian. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Ewokian. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy toy dog of immense charm that serves as the national dog of Cuba and the only breed native to that island nation. Standing between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the withers with an ideal height of 9 to 10.5 inches, and weighing 7 to 13 pounds with an ideal weight of 8 to 11 pounds, the Havanese presents a body that is slightly longer than tall. Despite its small size, the breed is neither fragile nor overdone, possessing a robust constitution that belies its delicate appearance. The topline is distinctive, rising slightly from the withers to the croup, creating a unique silhouette that is characteristic of the breed. The Havanese coat is one of its most distinguishing features, consisting of a soft, light, silky double coat that is long, abundant, and wavy. The coat stands slightly off the body but flows with movement, and in mature dogs may reach considerable length. Unlike many double-coated breeds, the Havanese outer coat is not harsh or dense but rather soft and lightweight, sometimes described as feeling like silk. The coat may be shown naturally brushed out or corded, with corded coats developing tassel-like cords over time. All colors and marking patterns are permissible and of equal merit, including white, cream, gold, black, blue, silver, chocolate, and various combinations including parti-color and tri-color. The head is medium in length and proportionate to the body, with a broad skull that is slightly rounded. The muzzle is full and tapers slightly at the nose, with length equal to the skull. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and very dark with a gentle, intelligent expression, set well apart. The ears are broad at the base, set high on the head, and drop slightly above the cheekline. The plumed tail is carried arched forward over the back and is one of the characteristic features of the breed. The gait is unique and springy, resulting from the breed's structure combined with its playful, spirited personality.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Despite their small size, Havanese are intelligent and highly trainable dogs that excel in obedience, agility, and various dog sports. They respond enthusiastically to positive reinforcement training and learn new commands quickly due to their eagerness to please. They are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized, showing patience and gentleness in their interactions. While they make excellent watchdogs and will alert their families to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not excessive barkers when properly trained. The breed is adaptable and can thrive in apartments or houses, requiring only moderate exercise to remain happy and healthy.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Liver shunts, also known as portosystemic shunts, are congenital conditions where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxin buildup and various health complications. This condition can cause stunted growth, behavioral changes, and neurological symptoms. Cardiac conditions, particularly mitral valve disease, can develop in Havanese as they age, with congestive heart failure being a significant contributor to mortality in older dogs. Dental disease is common in small breeds like the Havanese due to crowded teeth, making regular dental care essential. Additional concerns include hypothyroidism, allergies, and cherry eye. Regular veterinary examinations and purchasing from breeders who perform recommended health screenings significantly reduce the risk of these conditions.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a compact, short-backed toy dog of Nordic descent that presents a bold, foxy appearance despite its diminutive size. Weighing between 3 and 7 pounds with an ideal show weight of 4 to 6 pounds, the Pomeranian has a square body with a ratio of body length to height at the withers of one to one. This creates a balanced, well-proportioned silhouette that appears neither clumsy nor spindly. The breed carries itself with an alert, proud bearing that suggests its Spitz heritage and belies its small stature, moving with a smooth, free gait that displays both reach and drive. The Pomeranian's magnificent double coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a short, dense undercoat beneath a profuse, harsh-textured longer outer coat that stands off from the body, creating the breed's characteristic puffball appearance. The coat forms a characteristic ruff around the neck and chest, framing the head and extending over the shoulders in an abundant frill. The heavily plumed tail is set high and lies flat over the back, creating one of the breed's hallmark features that draws immediate attention. The backs of the thighs are well-coated with long hair forming characteristic trousers. All colors, patterns, and variations are permitted, including orange, red, cream, sable, black, brown, blue, white, parti-color, and brindle, with tan points also acceptable. The head is wedge-shaped and fox-like in appearance, with a skull that is slightly rounded but not domed, proportionate to the body. The muzzle is fine and never snipey, with a moderate stop that creates the characteristic expression. The expression is alert and intelligent, conveyed through dark, almond-shaped eyes that are bright, sparkling, and medium-sized. The ears are small, mounted high, and carried erect, contributing to the breed's alert expression. The body is compact with a short, level back, well-sprung ribs, and a deep chest reaching to the elbows. The legs are straight and fine-boned with compact, cat-like feet that stand well up on the toes, giving an elegant appearance.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Pomeranians are intelligent and trainable, though they can possess an independent streak that requires patient, consistent training. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods and enjoy learning new tricks and commands, which appeals to their desire for attention and stimulation. Early socialization is important to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults, as their bold nature can sometimes lead them to challenge much larger dogs. They generally get along well with other pets when raised together and can be good with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Their small size and delicate build mean they are not ideal for households with very young children or rough handling.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Severe Hair Loss Syndrome, also known as Alopecia X or Black Skin Disease, is a condition seen in Pomeranians where the coat develops a woolly texture and then experiences significant hair loss, particularly affecting the trunk while sparing the head and legs. The exact cause is not fully understood, though genetic factors are suspected. Eye conditions common in the breed include cataracts, tear duct issues leading to tear staining, dry eye, and distichiasis where eyelashes grow abnormally. Dental disease is extremely prevalent in Pomeranians due to their small mouths and crowded teeth, making daily dental care essential. Gastrointestinal problems, including pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease, may occur more frequently in the breed. Regular veterinary care and purchasing from health-tested breeding stock help reduce these risks.
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 Ewokian 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 Havanese and Pomeranian to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.