Havaton
The Havaton is a cross between the Coton de Tulear and the Havanese. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Havaton. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, sturdy companion dog whose name derives from its distinctive cotton-like coat and the seaport city of Tulear in Madagascar where the breed developed. Standing between 9 and 11 inches at the shoulder, with females typically measuring 9 to 10 inches and males 10 to 11 inches, this breed weighs between 8 and 15 pounds, with females ranging from 8 to 13 pounds and males from 9 to 15 pounds. The body presents a rectangular outline, with the height measuring approximately two-thirds of the body length, creating a well-balanced silhouette that appears sturdy without fragility. The breed's most distinguishing characteristic is its extraordinary coat, which possesses a dry, soft, cottony texture unlike any other breed. The coat is long, fluffy, and profuse, lacking the oily quality found in many dog coats. While a slight wave is permissible, the coat should maintain its distinctive cotton-like appearance throughout. The accepted color is predominantly white, with slight shadings of light tan or grey on the ears permitted but not exceeding five percent of the total coat. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its characteristic fluffy texture. The Coton de Tulear head is short and triangular when viewed from above, with a slightly rounded skull and a well-defined stop. The eyes are round, dark, and set well apart, conveying an expression of intelligence, curiosity, and the characteristic joie de vivre for which the breed is celebrated. The nose is black, and the black pigmentation extends to the eye rims and lips. Small, triangular ears are set high and hang close to the cheeks. The tail is set low and carried over the back in a curve when the dog is in motion, with a hook at the end when at rest. The breed moves with a free, easy gait that reflects its cheerful, carefree personality.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Coton de Tulear gets along exceptionally well with virtually everyone, including children, strangers, other dogs, and cats. This universal friendliness means they do not make effective guard dogs, though they will alert their owners to unusual activity. The breed forms strong attachments to their families and does not tolerate isolation well, potentially developing separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Cotons are generally quiet dogs that bark only when there is reason, making them suitable for apartment living. Their combination of affection, adaptability, and cheerful disposition makes them outstanding companions for individuals and families across all life stages.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Hip dysplasia, while more commonly associated with larger breeds, has been documented in the Coton de Tulear population, though at lower rates than many other breeds. Responsible breeders evaluate breeding stock for this condition to reduce its prevalence. Dental disease affects Cotons as it does most small breeds, making regular dental care essential throughout the dog's life. The breed's thick, cottony coat can cause overheating in hot climates, requiring owners to provide adequate shade, hydration, and air-conditioned environments during warm weather. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate vaccination schedules, and attentive home care will help ensure the Coton de Tulear enjoys a long, healthy life with minimal health complications.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog that exudes charm and elegance in equal measure. Standing between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the shoulder, with an ideal height of 9 to 10.5 inches, this breed weighs between 7 and 13 pounds, with 8 to 11 pounds considered optimal. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a rectangular silhouette that appears well-balanced rather than square. Despite being classified as a toy breed, the Havanese possesses a robust build that is neither fragile nor overdone, giving it surprising substance for its compact size. The legs are relatively short but provide sufficient length to keep the dog from appearing too close to the ground. The breed's most distinctive feature is its magnificent double coat, which is soft, light, and silky to the touch in both the outer and undercoat layers. The coat is long, abundant, and characteristically wavy, standing slightly off the body while flowing gracefully with movement. All colors and marking patterns are permitted and considered equally desirable, ranging from pure white through shades of cream, champagne, gold, black, blue, silver, and chocolate, including parti-color and tricolor combinations. The coat may be left natural or may develop into cords in mature dogs, creating tassel-like formations that cover the entire body. The Havanese head is proportionate to the body, featuring large, almond-shaped eyes that are very dark with a gentle, expressive quality. The ears are set high, drop-folded, and covered with long hair that blends into the mane. A unique breed characteristic is the springy, lively gait, which results from the combination of a short upper arm with moderate shoulder layback and strong rear drive. The topline rises slightly from the withers to the croup, and the plumed tail is carried arched forward over the back, adding to the breed's distinctive appearance.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed demonstrates excellent social skills, getting along wonderfully with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly introduced. Havanese are naturally non-quarrelsome and possess a sweet, affectionate disposition that makes them poor guard dogs but exceptional therapy and emotional support animals. They are alert and will announce visitors with barking but are not excessive barkers when properly trained. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for various living situations, from apartments to large homes, as long as they receive adequate attention and companionship from their beloved humans.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Heart conditions, particularly mitral valve disease, affect approximately 11 percent of the breed and typically develop in middle-aged to older dogs. Regular cardiac screenings can help detect murmurs and other abnormalities early. Additional health concerns include hypothyroidism, sebaceous adenitis affecting the skin and coat, and dental disease due to the small jaw size. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on breeding stock for these conditions. Owners should maintain regular veterinary checkups, keep vaccinations current, and monitor their Havanese for any signs of illness or discomfort throughout the dog's life.
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 Havaton 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 Coton de Tulear and Havanese to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.