Poovanese

The Poovanese is a cross between the Havanese and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Poovanese. 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 that stands between eight and a half to eleven and a half inches at the shoulder and weighs seven to thirteen pounds. This breed possesses a compact body that is slightly longer than it is tall, giving it a rectangular silhouette when viewed from the side. The Havanese has a distinctive springy gait that reflects the breed's cheerful and lively nature, with good reach in front and strong drive from behind. The body is well-muscled despite its small size, with a level topline and a moderately deep chest that reaches to the elbows. The forelegs are straight and parallel when viewed from the front, with fine but sturdy bone. The tail is carried arched forward over the back and is covered with a plume of long, silky hair. The Havanese coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a long, soft, lightweight double coat that can be straight, wavy, or curly. Unlike many other breeds, the coat is designed for the tropical climate of Cuba and provides insulation against both heat and cold. The coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including white, cream, fawn, red, chocolate, silver, black, blue, and gold, as well as parti-colors and various markings. The coat can grow to six to eight inches in length and has a silky texture that flows naturally with the dog's movement. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting but is considered hypoallergenic by many owners. The head of the Havanese is broad with a moderately rounded skull and a moderate stop. The muzzle is relatively short and tapers slightly toward the nose, which is solid black or brown depending on coat color. The eyes are large, dark, and almond-shaped, conveying an intelligent and gentle expression that is characteristic of the breed. The ears are set high, drop down, and are covered with long, flowing hair that blends with the coat. The neck is of moderate length and merges smoothly into the shoulders. The overall expression of the Havanese is friendly and alert, reflecting the breed's naturally cheerful and affectionate disposition.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Havanese dogs are typically excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family companions. They are alert and will bark to announce visitors, making them good little watchdogs, though they are too friendly to be effective guard dogs. The breed is adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, as long as they receive adequate attention and mental stimulation. Their moderate energy level means they enjoy short walks and play sessions but are also content to cuddle on the couch with their favorite people.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions are another area of concern for the breed, with cataracts being one of the most commonly reported issues. Progressive retinal atrophy and other inherited eye diseases can also occur. The Havanese Club of America recommends regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Additionally, some Havanese can be affected by liver shunts, a congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver, leading to stunted growth and behavioral changes. Cardiovascular disease, particularly in older dogs, has been identified as a significant contributor to mortality in the breed. Regular veterinary checkups and health screenings help detect these conditions early when treatment is most effective.
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Poodle

Poodle

The Poodle comes in three size varieties that share the same breed standard except for height. The Standard Poodle stands over fifteen inches at the shoulder and typically weighs forty-five to seventy pounds. The Miniature Poodle measures between ten and fifteen inches and weighs twelve to twenty pounds. The Toy Poodle is under ten inches and weighs approximately five to seven pounds. All three varieties share the same elegant, square-bodied build with a proud carriage and an air of distinction that sets them apart from other breeds. The body is well-proportioned with a level topline and moderately deep chest. The Poodle's most distinctive feature is its dense, curly, non-shedding coat, which comes in a variety of solid colors including white, black, brown, gray, apricot, red, cream, silver, blue, and cafe au lait. The coat has a unique texture that allows it to be clipped into various styles, from the elaborate continental clip seen in show rings to the practical sporting clip preferred by many pet owners. The coat requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks and daily brushing to prevent matting. This hypoallergenic coat makes Poodles a popular choice for allergy sufferers. The hair continues to grow rather than shedding, which contributes to the breed's distinctive grooming needs. Poodles have a refined, elegant head with a long, straight muzzle and dark, oval-shaped eyes that convey an intelligent and alert expression. The ears are long and hang close to the head, covered with wavy hair that may be trimmed or left natural. The neck is well-proportioned, slightly arched, and carried high, contributing to the breed's dignified appearance. The body is well-muscled and athletic, reflecting the breed's origins as a water retriever in Germany and France. The legs are straight and parallel when viewed from front or rear, ending in small oval feet with arched toes. The tail is set high, traditionally docked in countries where this practice is still permitted, and carried upward. The overall impression is one of an active, intelligent, and elegant dog.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Poodles are sensitive dogs that respond best to positive, reward-based training methods rather than harsh corrections. They are highly attuned to their owners' emotions and moods, making them excellent therapy and emotional support dogs. The breed adapts well to various living situations, though they require regular mental and physical exercise to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Poodles generally get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced and socialized. Their dignified demeanor and cheerful personality make them wonderful companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Poodles can be prone to several endocrine disorders, including Addison's disease, which affects the adrenal glands, and hypothyroidism, which affects the thyroid gland. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a life-threatening emergency that occurs more frequently in Standard Poodles and requires immediate veterinary attention. Epilepsy has been documented in all Poodle varieties and typically manifests between one and four years of age. Sebaceous adenitis, an inflammatory skin condition that affects the sebaceous glands, is another concern in the breed. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate health screenings, and purchasing from breeders who conduct recommended genetic testing can help minimize the risk of these hereditary conditions.
Learn More About The Poodle

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 Poovanese 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 Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.