Havanese? My family is considering adding a Havanese.....?

We've had a miniature poodle for 7 years, whom we adore, but her health is sketchy at best and she has become very aggressive over the years. As much as we love her, she is unpredicatable and suffering from seizures (very mild) and we are painfully considering putting her down.

We have an 8 year old and do not want to make the mistake of picking a very hyper, snippy dog again. We are looking for a friendly happy go lucky dog who can travel and be treated like a queen. Due to allergies we need a dog that doesn't shed, grooming isn't a problem.

More and more people are suggesting a Havanese and having no personal experience with them I am putting this out there. Any thoughts?

I really appreciate your input...thanks!

Of all the small dogs, a havanese is the one that is unquestionably best with kids. They're sturdier (more like a terrier) so can withstand the play, they're friendly, lively, clowns, and also easy to train. They're not hyper, just playful.

It goes without saying that kids still need to be taught how to treat a puppy with respect and the puppy of course, needs training as well.

The most important thing from your aspect is to find a reputable breeder, see as many of their dogs as possible to make sure they have the temperament you want. If the mother's temperament especially is one you like, you can be pretty certain that, with correct socializing and training, your puppy will be what you want for your family.

Hi, my old neighbors used to have a Havanese, and he was fantastic. Perfect temperment, happy go lucky, good with kids, and very sweet and cute. They are also adorable (especially as puppies). Good luck and sorry about your miniature poodle.

It depends on how the dog's parents act. If the parents are snippy then the pup would be but if the parents are kind then the pup would be kind. If you can't get a Havanese try getting a Basenji. They're great with kids and other pets and they don't bark they do more of a grunt. They also don't shed as much as the Havanese do. The Havanese are yappy little dogs that normally bark at everything but if you do decide to get one make sure that the 8 year old doesn't hurt it. That could make it nip or bite.

There arent a huge amount of breeds that do not shed. Most bichons (poodles, havanese,bolognese) do not readily shed but actually retain the hairs and dander until it is brushed out (why poodles need so much grooming). I wouldnt go for a havanese. I would try one of the "designer dog breeds" originally created to use as hypoallergenic guide dogs. Since you seem like you want something smaller, try a cockapoo (cocker spaniel and miniature poodle), pomchi or maybe just a plain miniature or toy poodle.
Im very sorry about your poodle. 8 years isnt very old. I think that putting her down would be the most humane thing to do for her.
Also try this. go to < >http://www.petplanet.co.uk/select_a_bree... and fill out this form. it will calculate what breed is the best for you and your family.

Good Luck!
Charlotte