Havanese dogs hail from Cuba and boast a thick, silky coat that doesn’t shed too much (and makes all the pups in the neighborhood jealous). The texture of the coat does tend to vary—from straight, to wavy, to curly—and it can range in color from white to black.
When left alone, their coat can easily grow six to eight inches long (and it grows quickly), so you’re going to want to trim it every six to eight weeks. Their hair also tends to naturally form mats, so take extra care with grooming to keep it tangle-free.
To help you decide on the best cut for your pup, we’ve gathered up a bevy of adorable options for you—pick the one that you think complements your unique, wonderful dog.
Top Havanese Hairstyles
1. Cording
Via Flickr/Brad Saunders
Let your Havanese’s coat go natural and develop cords, also known as “doggie dreadlocks”. Though their coat develops cords naturally, you can “train” their fur by bathing them every two weeks and twisting the fur into locks—this will transform the matted fur into fluffy spirals.
Just remember, the process can take up to two years, so be ready to make a commitment.
Consult an experienced groomer if you decide to go this route, since there is a correct way to do this style (and your dog will appreciate the expert advice).
2. Natural Coat
Via Pixabay
Keep things simple by celebrating your Havanese’s natural coat. Let the waves be free—just keep a good handle on the tangles by brushing them regularly.
Though Havanese fur actually tends to be more lightweight than it looks, make sure your dog isn’t getting too toasty during the warm summer months.
3. Puppy Cut
Via Flickr/Victor Valore
The Puppy Cut is a crowd-pleaser, and Havaneses are more than able to pull it off with style. For this cut, use clippers to keep the hair the same all over (from one to two inches). Easy enough to maintain at home, just invest in a solid pair of clippers and shears.
You’ll adore the simplicity and cuteness of this ever-popular style. And (compared to something like cords) your dog will find the short style refreshing.
4. Teddy Bear Cut
Via Flickr/Ji Soo Song
The Havanese Teddy Bear Cut is similar to the Puppy Cut above, however, hair is kept a little longer all over (up to three inches), except for on the head, where the hair is fluffy and cut into a teddy bear-inspired rounded shape.
You can adjust this cut to any length, so really it’s the perfect solution if you want to keep your canine comfortable, but also give them the chance to express their individuality. Bonus—they’re going to look really, really huggable.
5. Kennel Cut
Via Pixabay
If you’re looking to keep things really simple, then this is the cut for you. Perfect for warm months, or warm locations, this style is a refreshing and cool option.
This style can also be maintained at home with the correct pair of clippers—and since Havanese hair grows rather quickly, you’ll just need to get used to giving them a trim fairly often.
Regardless of the cut you choose for your Havanese, we know that their incredible coif is part of what makes this breed so much fun. It’s up to you to decide what style best suits their personality, and what’s the best match for your lifestyle, family, and wallet.
Does your dog dislike being brushed?
Many dogs love to be brushed, but not all do. And unless they got a lot of practice with it as puppies, they may be suspicious when you first introduce them to the brush. Approaching brushing slowly, with positive, non-threatening interactions, is more likely to result in a smoother grooming routine. Here’s how to get your dog to accept—and perhaps even enjoy—brushing:
- Before you even set brush to fur, let your pup make friends with the tool. Start by placing the brush on the ground and throwing high-value treats around and on top of it, encouraging your dog to investigate the funny new object at their speed.
- The simple act of reaching for your dog with the brush can be scary for some dogs. Next, work on reaching out with the brush to very lightly touch your dog’s body with the edge of the bristles. Each time you reach out with the brush, immediately follow it with a high-value treat. Be sure to take extra care (and time, if needed) when brushing around the ears, legs, and genitals.
- When your dog is comfortable with step 2, move on to brushing the fur. Start lightly, alternating each stroke with a reward. Over time, work your way up to pressing more firmly and brushing for several strokes in a row.
Source: https://pets.thenest.com/havanese-hairstyles-12918.html
Source: https://www.certapet.com/havanese/
Source: https://www.thepaws.net/10-best-havanese-haircuts/