Pros and Cons of the Havapoo: Is the Havapoo right for you

The Havapoo, also known as the Poovanese, is a popular designer dog breed resulting from the cross between a Havanese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Small, sweet, and full of personality, the Havapoo has quickly become a favorite for families, singles, and seniors alike.

But as with any breed, it’s important to understand both the advantages and potential challenges before bringing a Havapoo home. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of the Havapoo breed—so you can make the most informed choice possible.

Pros of Owning a Havapoo

1. Affectionate & Family-Friendly
Havapoos are known for their loving and cuddly nature. They bond deeply with their families and love being included in everyday activities. They’re especially gentle with children and make wonderful companion dogs.

2. Hypoallergenic & Low-Shedding
Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Havapoos tend to have low-shedding, curly or wavy coats. This makes them a great choice for allergy-sensitive households, although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

3. Intelligent & Eager to Learn
These pups are incredibly smart and pick up on training quickly. Whether it’s basic obedience, tricks, or house training, the Havapoo’s desire to please makes them easy to train—especially with positive reinforcement.

4. Adaptable to Small Living Spaces
Their compact size (typically 7–15 lbs) and moderate energy level make Havapoos well-suited to apartment or condo living. They enjoy indoor playtime and short outdoor walks.

5. Gets Along Well with Other Pets
Social and friendly, Havapoos usually do well with other dogs and even cats—especially when properly socialized from a young age.

Cons of Owning a Havapoo

1. Separation Anxiety
Because they form such strong bonds with their owners, Havapoos can become anxious when left alone for long periods. They thrive in homes where someone is around most of the day.

2. Needs Regular Grooming
That beautiful coat needs frequent upkeep. Havapoos require brushing several times a week and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting and keep their fur healthy.

3. Can Be Vocal
Some Havapoos are quick to bark—whether it’s to alert you of someone at the door or just to express excitement. With early training, barking can often be managed.

4. May Develop Small Dog Syndrome
If not properly trained, some Havapoos may become bossy or stubborn—especially if they’re pampered too much. Consistent training and boundaries are essential.

5. Moderate to High Energy Levels
While not hyper, Havapoos are playful and active. They need daily walks and interactive playtime to stay mentally and physically stimulated.

Is the Havapoo Right for You?

You might be a perfect match for a Havapoo if you:

• Want a small, affectionate, and smart companion

• Can commit to regular grooming

• Work from home or are around most of the day

• Prefer a dog that’s friendly with kids and other pets

• Are prepared to train and socialize your pup from the start

Where to Find a Havapoo Puppy

At Mawoo Pets, we work exclusively with reputable, ethical breeders across North America. Each of our breeders raises puppies in a loving home environment and is carefully vetted to ensure the health, socialization, and happiness of every puppy.

We also offer financing options and nationwide delivery so you can meet your perfect pup, no matter where you live!

Explore our Havapoo puppies for sale to learn more.

❓ FAQ About Havapoos

Are Havapoos good for allergy sufferers?
Yes! While not completely allergen-free, Havapoos are low-shedding and often suitable for mild allergy sufferers.

How big do Havapoos get?
Most range between 7 and 15 pounds depending on the size of the Poodle parent.

Do Havapoos need a lot of exercise?
They need moderate daily exercise—around 30 to 60 minutes of walks and playtime.

How long do Havapoos live?
Havapoos enjoy long lifespans, typically 12 to 15 years with proper care.

About Our Blogs

Our blogs are written by the team at Mawoo Pets and reviewed by licensed breeders and veterinarians to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. We’re committed to helping you make informed decisions with expert-reviewed guidance.

👉 Looking to learn more?
Explore our related blogs on hypoallergenic breeds, best dogs for apartments, and more!