What Is a Havapoo? A Family Raised Puppy Guide
If you have ever wondered what is a Havapoo and why this little companion breed is winning over so many families, you are in the right place. As breeders who have worked with both Havanese and Poodles for years, we’ve learned exactly what makes this designer mix so special. The Havapoo is gentle, cheerful, intelligent, and deeply connected to its family, making it one of the most rewarding small breeds to raise.
Understanding What a Havapoo Is
Cream Havapoo puppy from Havana Luxe Pups sitting on the grass
A Havapoo is a cross between a purebred Havanese and a purebred Miniature or Toy Poodle. This blend creates a companion dog that carries the sweetness and loyalty of the Havanese with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle. When people ask what is a Havapoo, we often describe them as a perfect mix of heart and smarts wrapped in a soft, wavy coat.
Havapoos are not AKC registered because they are a hybrid breed, but that doesn’t make them any less special. A well-bred Havapoo begins with healthy, genetically tested parents and intentional socialization from the start.
Havapoo Personality and Temperament
Friendly and affectionate
These puppies love being close to their people. They bond quickly and form strong emotional connections with children, adults, and even other pets.
Playful yet gentle
Havapoos enjoy playtime, learning games, and outdoor walks, but they are just as happy curled up in your lap at the end of the day.
Intelligent and eager to please
This combination of Havanese and Poodle traits makes training surprisingly easy. They pick up routines quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement.
Adaptable
Whether your home is busy and active or relaxed and quiet, the Havapoo adjusts easily. Their flexible nature is one of the reasons families fall in love so quickly.
Are Havapoos Good Family Dogs
Many families ask what is a Havapoo like with children, and the answer is usually simple. Havapoos thrive in families with kids because they are gentle, patient, and playful. Their small size makes them easy for children to handle, and their affectionate temperament helps them bond with everyone in the home. Because they are a low-shedding breed, they are often easier for allergy-sensitive families.
Havapoo Size and Lifespan
Most Havapoos are small, typically weighing between 10 and 18 pounds, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Their lifespan averages between 12 and 16 years, giving families many wonderful years with their companion.
Havapoo Grooming and Coat Care
The Havapoo coat is soft, wavy, and low shedding. It does require regular grooming to stay clean and tangle-free.
Black Havapoo with white paws laying down in the grass
Brushing
A few times a week helps keep mats away and maintain a healthy shine.
Professional grooming
Every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal to keep the coat trimmed, tidy, and comfortable.
Bathing and nail care
Regular baths and nail trims help maintain overall wellness and make grooming a positive experience for your puppy.
Because we handle our puppies gently from the first days of life, they become accustomed to being brushed and handled, making grooming at home and in the salon much easier.
How We Raise Havapoo Puppies at Havana Luxe Pups
Our program is built on care, intention, and ethics. When families ask what is a Havapoo raised in a responsible program truly like, we explain that it begins long before the puppies open their eyes.
Each day includes:
- Gentle handling and daily affection
- Socialization with children and adults
- Early exposure to sounds, smells, and different environments
- Clean and comfortable nursery spaces
- Confidence-building through age-appropriate play
- Gradual introduction to grooming routines
We focus on raising puppies who are not only healthy but also emotionally secure and ready to join family life with confidence.
Health, Testing, and Our Commitment
Every parent dog in our program is DNA tested for genetic conditions and receives OFA certifications for key health areas. Each Havapoo puppy receives a full veterinary exam, vaccinations, deworming, and a microchip before going home. We also provide a written health guarantee and lifelong support for every family.
Our goal has always been to raise puppies with love, intention, and transparency so families feel supported from their first message to long after adoption day.
Why Families Love the Havapoo
If you ask families what a Havapoo means to them, you will often hear the same kinds of answers. These puppies bring joy, loyalty, and companionship into a home in a way that feels effortless.
Black and white Havapoo standing on the grass in front of a Christmas crown
Families love them because they are:
- Social and affectionate
- Low-shedding and easier for allergy-sensitive homes
- Smart and quick to learn
- Gentle with children
- Happy in apartments or larger homes
- Adaptable to many lifestyles
They are small dogs with big personalities and even bigger hearts.
Preparing to Welcome a Havapoo Puppy
If you are considering adding a Havapoo to your family, take time to learn about the breed, think about your daily routine, and prepare your home with the essentials. We provide each family with detailed preparation guidance, updates on their puppy’s growth, and support every step of the way.
When families ask us what is a Havapoo like to raise, our honest answer is simple. They are joyful, affectionate little companions that thrive when they are loved, included, and gently guided through each stage of life.
If you would like to learn more about our Havapoo puppies or upcoming litters, please reach out anytime. We are always here to help you find the right match for your family.
Cream Havapoo puppy standing on the grass next to red flowers
FAQ
What is a Havapoo?
A Havapoo is a mix between a purebred Havanese and a Miniature or Toy Poodle, known for being affectionate, smart, and family-friendly.
Do Havapoos shed?
Havapoos are low-shedding thanks to their wavy, Poodle-influenced coats.
Are Havapoos easy to train?
Yes, they are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes training simple and enjoyable.
How big do Havapoos get?
Most adult Havapoos weigh between 10 and 18 pounds, depending on the size of the Poodle parent.
Are Havapoos good with kids?
They are gentle, playful, and affectionate, making them excellent companions for families with children.
