Havanese are cheerful, affectionate little dogs with a soft, wavy coat that sheds very little. Most families keep them in a short puppy cut, which makes home brushing simple.
- Coat type: Silky / long coat
- Routine: Plan for a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Key tools: Pin brush, fine and medium-tooth metal comb, small slicker brush
What kind of coat does a Havanese have?
Havanese have a soft, silky double coat that can be straight, wavy or curly. It grows continuously and tangles easily, especially if left long.
Coat type, more than breed name, is what decides how often a dog needs a bath, a brush or a haircut. Mixes and individual dogs vary, so treat the schedule below as a starting point and adjust it to your dog's lifestyle, skin and how quickly the coat gets dirty or tangled.
How often should you groom a Havanese?
Plan for a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks. Brush daily for long coats or several times a week for puppy cuts. Clean eyes daily, trim nails every 3 to 4 weeks and keep up with dental care.
How to bathe a Havanese at home
- Brush and comb out completely before the bath, paying special attention to behind the ears, armpits and the collar area.
- Wet the coat with lukewarm water, letting it flow downward with the hair.
- Shampoo by smoothing it down the length of the coat instead of piling it up and scrubbing.
- Rinse well, apply conditioner from mid-length to tips, and rinse again.
- Blot with a towel, then blow-dry on low while brushing in the direction of growth.
- Clean around the eyes and keep hair out of them with a trim or a loose topknot.
Always use a shampoo made for dogs; human shampoo is formulated for a different skin pH. Keep water out of the ears, and give a treat at the end so bath time stays positive.
Brushing routine
Line brush with a pin or slicker brush and finish with a comb, paying attention to behind the ears and under the legs.
Havanese coats can cord if left unbrushed in a deliberate way, which some owners choose on purpose, but accidental cording is just matting. If you want a corded coat, learn the process from an experienced groomer; otherwise, regular line brushing and a manageable length keep the coat soft and comfortable.
Short, frequent sessions beat one long struggle. Two to ten minutes, a few times a week, keeps most coats in good shape and gives you a chance to spot skin problems, lumps, ticks or sore spots early.
Fitting the routine into your week
Keep a pin brush and comb somewhere visible, like next to the couch, and brush during TV time. Check the friction zones (ears, armpits, collar) every day, even if you only brush the whole coat a few times a week. Wipe the face daily and book haircuts on a regular cycle so the coat never gets ahead of you.
Tools you'll need
- Pin brush for the long coat
- Fine and medium-tooth metal comb
- Small slicker brush for the legs and feet
- Gentle dog shampoo plus a conditioner or leave-in detangler
- Soft hair ties or clips for the topknot (never tight)
- Tear-stain wipes or a soft damp cloth for the face
Common Havanese grooming mistakes
- Skipping the friction spots. Mats start where things rub: behind the ears, under the collar, under the legs.
- Rubbing with a towel. It knots fine hair instantly. Blot and squeeze instead.
- Tight topknots. They pull on the skin and break the hair. Keep them loose and redo them often.
- Skipping brushing between baths. The coat looks fine on top while tangles build underneath.
Havanese grooming FAQ
Do Havanese shed?
Very little.
How often should a Havanese be groomed?
Every 4 to 6 weeks.
What is the best haircut for a Havanese?
A short puppy cut is easiest to maintain.
How do I prevent tear stains?
Wipe the eye area daily and keep hair out of the eyes.
How often should I bathe a Havanese puppy?
Puppies usually need fewer baths than adults: bathe only when dirty, with a gentle shampoo made for dogs, and keep them warm until fully dry. Use short, positive sessions to get them used to water, brushing, nail trims and the dryer. Ask your vet when your puppy is ready for a professional groom.
Can I groom a Havanese at home?
Yes, most of the routine can be done at home: brushing, baths, ear checks and nail trims. Many owners handle brushing at home and book a professional for haircuts.
This guide offers general grooming information. For skin, ear or coat problems that don't improve, talk to your veterinarian. More Pawfile breed guides.