Hava-Boston

The Hava-Boston is a cross between the Havanese and the Boston Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Hava-Boston. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Havanese

Havanese

The Havanese is a small, sturdy toy breed standing between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the shoulder, with the ideal height ranging from 9 to 10.5 inches. These dogs typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds, though the breed standard allows weights up to 18 pounds. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a rectangular silhouette that distinguishes the breed. The topline is characteristically level but rises slightly from the withers to the croup, giving the Havanese its distinctive outline and contributing to its springy, lively gait. The chest is moderately deep with well-sprung ribs, providing ample lung capacity for the breed's active nature. The breed's most notable feature is its magnificent double coat, which is long, soft, and silky to the touch. Unlike many other long-coated breeds, the Havanese coat can be either straight or wavy, with both varieties equally acceptable in the show ring. The outer coat is lightweight and flowing, while the undercoat is sometimes minimal or absent entirely. This unique coat texture has earned the breed the nickname "Havana Silk Dog." All colors and patterns are acceptable, including solid shades, parti-colors, and various combinations of white, cream, fawn, gold, black, blue, silver, chocolate, and red. The coat does not shed heavily but requires regular grooming to prevent matting. The Havanese head is broad and slightly rounded, with a moderate stop and a full muzzle that tapers slightly toward the nose. The large, almond-shaped eyes are dark brown and convey an intelligent, mischievous expression that perfectly captures the breed's playful personality. Drop ears are set high on the head and covered with long, silky hair that blends seamlessly into the body coat. The plumed tail is carried arched forward over the back when the dog is alert, adding to the breed's elegant appearance. The legs are straight and well-boned, and the feet are compact with well-arched toes and thick pads, adapted for the breed's characteristic springy, effortless movement.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While the Havanese is generally friendly with strangers after proper introductions, they make excellent watchdogs and will alert their families to visitors or unusual sounds. This watchful nature rarely crosses into aggression, as the breed is fundamentally gentle and sociable. The Havanese typically gets along wonderfully with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly socialized. One important consideration is the breed's tendency toward separation anxiety. These devoted companions do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking if isolated from their families for too long.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Legg-Calve-Perthes disease affects some Havanese, causing degeneration of the femoral head and resulting in pain and lameness. Hip dysplasia, though more commonly associated with larger breeds, can also occur in Havanese and should be screened for in breeding dogs. Liver shunts, also called portosystemic shunts, are congenital abnormalities where blood bypasses the liver, leading to toxin buildup and various symptoms including stunted growth and neurological issues. Heart murmurs and other cardiac conditions have been documented in the breed, as have hypothyroidism and various allergies. Dental disease is particularly prevalent in small breeds like the Havanese, making regular dental care and professional cleanings essential components of their health maintenance program.
Learn More About The Havanese

Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-proportioned dog that presents a square, balanced appearance when viewed from any angle. The breed typically stands 12 to 17 inches at the shoulder and is divided into three weight classes by the American Kennel Club: under 15 pounds, 15 to 20 pounds, and 20 to 25 pounds, with the majority of dogs falling into the middle weight category. The body is short and well-knit, with a level topline and a slightly arched neck that blends smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. The chest is deep with good width, and the ribs are well-sprung, giving the breed its characteristically robust appearance. The Boston Terrier's distinctive tuxedo-like markings are a hallmark of the breed and contribute to its nickname of "American Gentleman." The coat is short, smooth, and fine in texture, lying flat against the body with a natural sheen. Acceptable colors include brindle with white markings, seal (which appears black but has a red cast when viewed in sunlight) with white markings, and black with white markings. The required markings include a white muzzle band, a white blaze between the eyes, and a white chest, while additional white on the collar, legs, and forelegs is desirable for show dogs. The head of the Boston Terrier is one of its most distinctive features. It is square and flat on top, free from wrinkles, with a short, square, wide muzzle that is in proportion to the skull. The breed's large, round, dark eyes are set wide apart and create an alert, intelligent expression that perfectly reflects the Boston's personality. The face is relatively flat due to the breed's brachycephalic structure, with a well-defined stop between the muzzle and skull. The ears are small and erect, either natural or cropped, set at the corners of the skull. The short tail is set low, fine, and tapering, carried horizontally or in a screw position.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Boston Terrier's social nature extends beyond its immediate family to include other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are generally friendly with unfamiliar people and enjoy meeting new friends, though early socialization helps ensure well-rounded social skills. The breed can be protective of their owners, which may occasionally result in territorial behavior. Boston Terriers are sensitive dogs that respond poorly to harsh treatment or raised voices, requiring gentle, consistent handling. Like many companion breeds, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, preferring to be in the company of their beloved humans.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition in Boston Terriers, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This can range from mild, intermittent issues to severe cases requiring surgery. Deafness, often congenital, occurs in some Boston Terriers, particularly those with excessive white markings. Heart disease, including mitral valve disease, has been documented in the breed and should be monitored through regular veterinary examinations. The breed's shortened spine can occasionally lead to hemivertebrae, a condition where vertebrae are abnormally shaped. Due to their physical structure, Boston Terrier females frequently require cesarean sections for delivery, with studies indicating over 80 percent of litters are delivered surgically. Allergies, both environmental and food-related, are common in the breed.
Learn More About The Boston Terrier

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 Hava-Boston 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 Boston Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.