Havanese dogs are a popular breed for families due to their outgoing, fun, and energetic nature. These small dogs are perfect for people who need to keep pets indoors and want to enjoy their fun-loving personalities, curiosity, and adaptable nature. However, when selecting a Havanese to join your family, it is essential to consider the sex that will be the best fit.
Both male and female Havanese are similar in many ways but have a few minor differences that may help you make the right choice for your family. In this article, we’ll explore the key characteristics, training needs, health, and grooming requirements of Havanese dogs, with a focus on the differences between males and females.
Havanese 101
Havanese dogs belong to the Barbichon family and are native to Cuba. They are small dogs with long, silky coats and come in a range of color combinations. These charming and loving dogs are known for their vibrant energy, fun-loving nature, and adaptability, making them excellent pets for families with children. They are typically easy to train and require regular maintenance, such as daily brushing, weekly nail trimming, and regular ear and eye cleaning.
Male Havanese Overview
Personality / Character
Male Havanese dogs are typically easy-going, fun, and loving. They tend to be more active than females, maintaining a longer puppy-like period showing playfulness and energy. They are also laidback and patient, making them great with children. Compared to females, they require more attention, which often translates to more cuddle time. Due to their loving nature, male Havanese dogs bond quickly with their family and are easy to socialize, commonly exhibiting less fear of strangers. They love to please their owners and make great pets, but they may be less tolerant of other animals.
Training
Havanese dogs are generally smart, which makes them easy to train. Male Havanese are usually easier to train than females, primarily because of their active, fun-loving nature. They love listening to their owners and are typically patient, making training sessions easier. They are also more people-pleasers, so training should be no problem as long as they receive positive reinforcement. However, Housebreaking may be a challenge, and starting potty training early is essential.
Health & Care
Male Havanese dogs have similar health and care needs as females, requiring a high-quality diet and regular exercise, maintenance, and grooming. If you provide them with adequate care, they can live for over 15 years. Havanese dogs are prone to dental problems, so providing proper dental care is essential. Male Havanese require more maintenance than females, especially when it comes to their coat, which requires regular brushing. It’s also important to trim their nails, clean their eyes and ears regularly, and take them to the vet for regular checkups.
Breeding
When a male Havanese reaches sexual maturity, around six months, he may start showing interest in breeding due to hormonal changes. During this phase, a male may exhibit territorial behavior by marking his area and being slightly aggressive, especially towards other dogs. If breeding is desired, it is best to pair the male Havanese with a female. However, if you don’t plan on breeding your dog, it’s best to neuter him to prevent unwanted behaviors and health problems.
Female Havanese Overview
Personality / Character
Female Havanese dogs have similar personalities to males, but they tend to be more aggressive and dominant. They are also more protective of their owners and may show attitude and fussiness if things don’t go their way. Female Havanese tends to be less playful than males and may be more afraid of strangers. They require the same attention as males but tend to exhibit less clingy behaviors. Females can be more independent than males and may better accept other animals.
Training
Training female Havanese is similar to training males, but females may be slightly more stubborn. They are more focused and attentive, which facilitates a smoother training session. While females learn quickly, they may still have a hard time with housebreaking. Therefore, starting early housebreaking is crucial regardless of sex.
Health & Care
Just like males, female Havanese dogs need a high-quality diet, regular exercise, maintenance, and grooming. They require regular brushing, nail trimming, eye and ear cleaning, among other maintenance. Dental care is also critical, and adequate exercise is essential to maintain good health.
Breeding
Female Havanese dogs typically start their heat cycle at six months old but should not be bred until 18 months due to potential health issues. After the first heat cycle, females have two cycles every year, lasting two to three weeks. If you do not plan to breed your Havanese, it’s best to spay her to prevent health problems and avoid unwanted behaviors and heat cycles.
Which Gender is Right for You?
When selecting between male and female Havanese, it ultimately comes down to your preference. While both sexes have similarities, they also have a few differences that may impact your decision. Male Havanese dogs are more active, cuddly, and easier to train, while females are slightly more dominant and protective. However, the personality traits vary significantly among distinct individuals within each sex, so there is no set rule.
In conclusion, Havanese dogs are an excellent choice for families looking for a fun and loving pet that adapts well to different living situations. By understanding the key differences between male and female Havanese, you can make an informed decision about which sex is the best fit for your family’s needs. Regardless of the sex you choose, make sure to provide them with proper care and attention, and you’ll have a wonderful companion for many years to come.
