The Havanese, Cuba's national dog, is a delightful toy breed known for its silky coat, cheerful personality, and affectionate nature. If you're considering adding a Havanese to your family, it's essential to understand the costs involved. This guide covers everything from the initial purchase price to ongoing expenses.
Havanese Price: What to Expect
The price of a Havanese puppy can vary depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown:
Purchasing from a Breeder: Expect to pay between $650 and $1800. Reputable breeders focus on health and temperament, often registering with breed clubs ([link to AKC Havanese page]). Puppies with champion bloodlines may cost more.
Adopting from a Rescue or Shelter: Adoption is a budget-friendly option, generally ranging from $50 to $500. This often covers spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping. It also gives a deserving dog a loving home.
How Much Does a Havanese Cost Monthly?
Diet: $15 - $30 per month for high-quality dog food.
Grooming: $50 - $100 per session for professional grooming.
Medical Costs: Expect $195 - $510 in the first year for vet exams. Be aware of breed-specific health concerns like:
Portosystemic Shunts - $2,000 - $5,000
Patellar Luxation - $300 - $2,000
Mitral Valve Disease of the Heart - $300 - $800
Expert Insights From Spot
Havanese are known for their playful personalities and affectionate nature. While generally healthy, they can experience health issues like any breed. Spot's data shows that Havanese owners most frequently submit claims for routine checkups for clinical exams, averaging $369.12 per visit. X-rays are a less common claim but are more expensive at an average cost of $742.80. Deworming is another common expense, averaging $270. These costs highlight the potential financial responsibility of Havanese ownership. Pet insurance can help alleviate the burden of unexpected veterinary expenses.
One-Time Havanese Costs
Initial Supplies: $150 - $650 for crate, bowls, collar, leash, bed, dog toys, etc.
Microchipping: $25 - $50 for additional peace of mind.
First-Year Vaccinations: $450 - $600 for essential protection.
Optional (but Worthwhile) Expenses
Dog Walking: $15 - $25 per session
Boarding: $25 - $85 per night
Lifetime Cost of Owning a Havanese
The estimated lifetime cost of a Havanese is between $19,000 - $22,000. This factors in food, grooming, vet care, and other expenses over their lifespan.
Havanese Characteristics
Life expectancy: 14 – 16 years
Adult weight: 7 – 14 lbs.
Adult height: 8 – 12 inches
Origin: Cuba
Havanese are intelligent and adaptable dogs, thriving in various living situations. Their playful nature and love for people make them excellent family companions. Regular grooming is needed to prevent matting, but their low-shedding coat is a plus for allergy sufferers.
Havanese Temperament
Velcro Dogs:Surveys find that Havanese are particularly attached to their families, being exceptionally affectionate and often called "Velcro dogs”.
Natural Entertainers:Many sources comment on the Havanese breed's inherent playfulness and even describe them as having a clownish or silly streak. (Source: [A-Z Animals: 10 Incredible Havanese Facts]: https://a-z-animals.com/blog/10-incredible-havanese-facts/)
Havanese Appearance
The Havanese is best known for its long, luxurious coat, which can be either straight or wavy. Common coat colors include white, cream, black, silver, and gold, creating a beautiful picture. Their dark, expressive eyes and cheerful tails add to their charismatic look. Overall, the Havanese is a sturdy little dog with an air of elegance.
Popularity & History
Cuba's Only Native Breed: The Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba, making them quite unique. (Source: American Kennel Club - Havanese)
Near Extinction: After the Cuban Revolution, only a handful of Havanese dogs were brought to the U.S. Dedicated breeders revived the breed and are responsible for its popularity today. (Source: Havanese Club of America)
Popularity Surge: The Havanese consistently ranks within the top 25 most popular dog breeds in the US, reflecting its growing appeal. (Source: AKC Most Popular Dog Breeds)
Pet Insurance: Protecting Your Investment
Spot Pet Insurance plans offer pet parents the ability to customize the coverage that fits the needs of their furry friend and their budget. With a Spot plan, pet parents have the option to choose an unlimited annual limit with no per-incident caps, no lifetime caps, and a reimbursement rate of up to 90% for eligible vet bills. Spot Pet Insurance plans offer coverage for emergencies, accidents, and illnesses, and parents can choose to add preventive care coverage for an additional cost. Preventive care coverage covers the eligible cost of routine exams, certain vaccines, dental cleaning, and more. To learn more about Spot Pet Insurance and the available coverage options, get a free quote!
As our Havanese cost guide evolves, we've expanded our focus to include regional insights that can help you better understand the investment required for this beloved breed. Whether you're in a bustling urban center or a quieter suburban area, local factors like breeder reputation, living costs, and demand all influence the price of a Havanese. Below, you can see a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a Havenese depending on what region of the United States you live in.
Havanese Price in the Western United States
In the Western United States, Havanese puppies typically range from $1,500 to $3,500. In states like California, Oregon, and Washington—especially within bustling cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle—higher living costs and premium breeding practices often drive prices toward the upper end of this spectrum.
Havanese Price in the Southern United States
Some southern states are cheaper for certain things, but you should still be prepared to pay a decent amount for your Havanese. Prices typically range from $1,200 to $3,000. Some states like Florida and Georgia have breeders that subscribe to the highest standards of breeding. However, in certain cities, like Miami, the cost of living is so high that the price of a Havanese will reflect it.
Havanese Price in the Midwest
In the Midwest, Havanese puppies generally cost between $1,000 and $2,800. In states like Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan, many breeders focus on community-based practices and personalized care. For instance, in cities such as Chicago, Columbus, and Detroit, you can often find reputable breeders who prioritize comprehensive health screenings and early socialization without the premium pricing found in larger urban markets on the coasts. However, much like the Southern United States, living in a dense urban area can increase the price of your Havanese.
Havanese Price in the Northeast
The Northeast is full of large cities, which will drive the price of your Havanese up. Here you can see a breakdown of the price by city:
New York City: $1,800 to $4,000. The high demand in this competitive market and the city's elevated cost of living contribute to the premium prices for Havanese puppies.
Boston: $1,700 to $3,800. With its affluent pet-owning population and proximity to reputable breeders, Havanese prices here are on the higher end, particularly for show-quality or well-bred puppies.
Philadelphia: $1,600 to $3,500. As a large urban center with a strong market for small dog breeds, prices in Philadelphia reflect both the demand and the quality care provided by many local breeders.
Baltimore: $1,500 to $3,300. Baltimore has a slightly more affordable market than its larger neighbors, but prices still reflect the city’s demand for hypoallergenic and small-breed dogs like the Havanese.
Conclusion
Havanese dogs are wonderful companions, but responsible ownership requires financial commitment. By understanding the costs involved, you'll be well-prepared to provide your Havanese with the best possible life.
I've had the privilege of immersing myself in the realm of pet safety. As the owner of an energetic mini golden doodle, I know just how stressful being a pet owner can be. I am dedicated to ensuring our beloved pets enjoy a life brimming with good health.
