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Havaton (Havanese & Coton de Tulear): Info, Pictures, Facts

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

havaton

Height: 8-12 inches
Weight: 7-15 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colors: White, black, tan, cream, silver, cinnamon
Suitable for: Individuals or families looking for a small dog with plenty of spunk
Temperament: Loyal, friendly, playful

You may not recognize the names of the two breeds of the Havaton, but you won’t forget this charming little pup once you’ve set your eyes on one. The dog is a cross between the Havanese and Coton de Tulear. Both have a rich history that includes royalty and adventure. Havatons live up to their reputation as loyal companions.

The personality of the Havaton is nothing but charming. They are extroverted with a sense of humor that is delightful to watch in action. They are also loyal pets, making them ideal for someone who wants a canine companion to brighten their day. Havatons are intelligent too, with a little streak of stubbornness. However, they are the essence of friendliness.

The Havaton is a new hybrid. Even one of its parents, the Coton de Tulear, is a newcomer to the American Kennel Club ranks, officially recognized in 2014. Both breeds have an island history, which perhaps explains their outgoing personality.Divider 1

Havaton Puppies

Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

Havatons are quite adaptable, whether you live in the country or the city. They also will do well for apartment dwellers. They are generally healthy dogs with few significant concerns. That means they are also long-lived. Havatons can tolerate both cold and hot weather, thanks to their unique, silky coat.

The Havaton is an ideal lap dog that is as affectionate as it is loyal. However, they prefer a household where there is a routine without a lot of disruption or noise. They’re happy to spend their time following you around and stopping for the occasional game of fetch. They’re a pet that craves attention and doesn’t handle loneliness well. Put it down to their sensitive nature.

Despite their small size, the Havaton is a spitfire and a bundle of happy energy. It’s no wonder, considering how much pet owners of both breeds regarded this cute canine. The Havaton is incredibly friendly and will likely become the favorite pet of the neighborhood.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Havaton

1. Residents of Madagascar (where the Coton de Tulear originated) outlawed ownership of these dogs to anyone but nobility.

The Coton de Tulear’s loyalty is legendary, both with the pets and their owners. The residents of Madagascar knew the treasure they had with this cute pup, making it illegal for anyone but royalty to own them. They kept this breed to themselves until French tourists discovered this canine island dweller in the 1960s.


2. The Havanese has a literary connection.

Both Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway were smitten with the comical Havanese. Who can blame them for falling in love with this adorable pup that was once known as Blanquito de la Habana or the Havana Silk Dog? The breed is also the National Dog of Cuba from where it originated.


3. The Coton de Tulear has royal status.

One look at the Coton de Tulear makes it easy to understand how anyone could fall under their spell. That’s just what happened in Madagascar, where the canine is known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” The country even issued a stamp proclaiming its mighty status.

Parent Breeds of the Havaton
Photo Credit: (L) Dorotthya Mathe, Shutterstock | (R) pablo11, Shutterstock

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Havaton 🧠

Havatons are intelligent dogs, a result of their history. Legends abound surrounding pirates, aristocrats, and bravery abound with perhaps only a bit of truth in them. These dogs are naturally curious and will explore their boundaries. They will stick close to home and don’t have a strong wanderlust instinct. They are typically not yappy dogs, either. However, they are talkers and have their own vocalizations.

Havatons are loyal pets, too. They may attach themselves to one family member but won’t act overprotective of them. Even though they are energetic, they are easygoing and will do well with small children and older individuals.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

Havatons are an excellent pet for families with children. They are gentle dogs with only a moderate tendency toward nipping. They are friendly with both household members and strangers, especially when socialized while young. Havatons are a good choice for first-time pet owners. These canines love meeting new people and will gladly lavish attention on them too.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

The friendly nature of the Havaton doesn’t stop with their families. They are also chummy with other dogs, as long as they have been socialized properly as puppies. However, you should exercise caution with other pets. The Havanese has a strong prey drive and will chase anything that runs away from them—including the family cat.

havaton
Photo Credit: T. Miettinen, Shutterstock

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Things to Know When Owning a Havaton

The Havaton certainly earns high marks as a friendly dog on all scores. While they are healthy animals, there are a few things you need to know so that you both are happy. After all, this pooch wants to please.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Havanese in your Havaton can get heavy if they get too many treats or not enough exercise. We recommend feeding them a high-quality diet to ensure their fur stays silky and soft. We also suggest keeping them on a strict feeding schedule to keep them at a healthy weight. Encourage them to eat at set meal times by picking up the food after they’re finished.

Exercise 🐕

This ball of energy will likely take care of most of their activity needs. However, because Havatons are prone to weight gain, they need to get daily exercise with a walk or some puppy playtime at the doggy park. It’ll provide excellent mental stimulation for this intelligent pooch. It’s a smart way to avoid your pet developing bad habits.

Havaton
Photo Credit: Myra Thompson, Shutterstock

Training 🦮

Havatons are quick to pick up the association between your commands and what they should do. That makes them very easy to train, as long as there is something in it for them, too. We suggest socializing them with other dogs and people from an early age so that they don’t become shy.

Some pets may have a stubborn streak that you’ll need to overcome. Remember that these pups are sensitive to harsh reprimands and are anxious to please.

Grooming ✂️

Havatons have a long coat that is medium dense. Its silky, cotton-like texture means that it can mat easily if you don’t comb them regularly. It’s not essential to get them groomed. However, keeping their fur trimmed in a puppy cut will make maintaining it less of a hassle. You should also make a point to clean their ears occasionally.

Light-colored dogs may develop tear stains in the corners of their eyes. Wipe the area gently with a damp cloth to keep them in check. On a positive note, they don’t shed a great deal other than normal hair loss. They are also hypoallergenic for those with allergies.

Health and Conditions ❤️

Havatons don’t have as many major health issues as some breeds, thanks to the stringent genetic testing done by breeders. That has helped to ensure that dogs with medical conditions are not bred to avoid passing them on to the next generation. However, there are some concerns that many smaller dogs share.

Minor Conditions
  • Deafness
  • Ear infections
  • Tear stains in light-colored pets
Serious Conditions

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Male vs. Female

The main difference between male and female Havatons is their size. Male dogs are a couple of inches taller. Both are loving companions with the right home, although some may give the males the edge on being easygoing. Otherwise, neutered and spayed Havatons make wonderful pets.

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Final Thoughts

The Havaton brings a unique and romantic history for anyone looking for an affectionate and playful addition to your home. One look at this cute pup and you’ll understand why they captured so many hearts, from aristocrats to authors. Besides, how many countries have official dogs like the Havanese and the Coton de Tulear?

The Havaton ticks off a lot of boxes for a family pet. They are lovable and loyal, almost to a fault. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them easy to train, even if they have an attitude sometimes. With regular grooming and annual vet exams, you can expect a long and happy life with your Havaton. They’ll undoubtedly keep you entertained with their outgoing personality all along the way.

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Featured Image Credit: Lulub, Shutterstock

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