Knowing exactly which breeds will get along with your Havanese isn’t so straightforward. Whether you’re considering a second dog, or just visiting the dog park, this information is very handy to know.
After speaking with Havanese owners with several years, The Puppy Mag has the best idea as to what breeds work well with this cutie of a dog.
What To Consider First: 3 Key Traits
When choosing a companion for your Havanese, it’s important to understand their basic traits, particularly their nature, exercise levels, and temperament.
Of course, every Havanese is different, but in general they follow the traits listed below. Knowing this, it will make it significantly easier for another dog to get along with your Havanese if they also share these similar traits.
➡️ Havanese sociability
Havanese dogs are known for their cheerful and friendly nature. They’re extroverted dogs, always eager to make new friends and spend quality time with their human family and animal pals. This sociability means that a potential companion dog should ideally also enjoy social interactions and not be aloof or excessively independent.
➡️ Havanese activity levels
Havanese dogs are also very energetic. They love to play and explore, whether it’s a game of fetch in the backyard or a walk around the neighborhood. A companion dog should ideally match these energy levels to ensure that both can keep each other entertained and not feel overwhelmed by the other’s activity level.
➡️ Havanese temperament
Lastly, the temperament of Havanese dogs is typically very gentle and they are known to be quite adaptable. They tend to get along well in different environments and with different types of people and animals. Therefore, a potential companion dog should ideally have a similar easy-going nature and adaptability to ensure a comfortable coexistence.
11 Best Companion Breeds For Havanese
Let’s run through the top 11 breeds that often do well with Havanese. It’s these breeds that we often find living under one roof with a fellow Havanese. Check them out.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, much like the Havanese. They’re sociable dogs who love being around their family, both human and furry. Their affectionate nature pairs well with a Havanese, promoting a bond between the two. Labradors are intelligent and trainable, complementing the Havanese’s natural curiosity and love for learning.
Beagle
Next, we have Beagles, social and playful dogs that mirror a Havanese’s temperament. Their cheerful demeanor keeps playtime exciting, and their gentleness and patience balance out the energetic nature of the Havanese, preventing them from becoming overwhelmed.
Miniature Poodle
Miniature Poodles, despite their size, have a lot of intelligence and adaptability. These dogs are outgoing and love to engage in play, keeping your Havanese entertained. Their easy-going nature and ability to get along with other pets make them a great fit for a Havanese household.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are renowned for their friendly, patient, and trustworthy nature. They’re amiable dogs that get along well with others, making them great companions for the sociable Havanese. Their calm demeanor provides a balance to the energetic Havanese, contributing to a harmonious environment.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with a vibrant and outgoing personality that complements the Havanese’s sociable nature. They love to play and can entertain your Havanese with their lively antics. Their affectionate and protective nature can create a strong bond with your Havanese.
Spaniel
Spaniels, whether a Cocker or Cavalier King Charles, are friendly and sociable dogs that are good at getting along with other pets. Their easy-going nature complements the playful energy of the Havanese. Spaniels are known for their loyalty and family attachment, fostering a strong connection with their Havanese companion.
Vizsla
Vizslas are known for their affectionate and intelligent nature. They’re highly social dogs that love to play and exercise, aligning with the energetic and curious Havanese. Vizslas are gentle dogs that can comfortably accommodate the Havanese’s playful antics.
Boxers are energetic and playful, a perfect match for a lively Havanese. They love socializing and can keep up with a Havanese’s high energy levels. Their protective nature can create a safe environment for your Havanese.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are intelligent and sociable dogs that, despite their larger size, love to play. Their activity level matches that of a Havanese, making for an active and fun household. Australian Shepherds form strong bonds with their family, promoting a close relationship with your Havanese.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, providing a balance to the Havanese’s energy. They’re affectionate and friendly dogs that get along well with other pets. Their adaptability to various environments ensures they can comfortably share a home with your Havanese.
Pug
Finally, Pugs are sociable dogs that love being the center of attention, making them a fantastic match for a Havanese. Their playful and affectionate nature will keep your Havanese entertained. Pugs are known for their patience and adaptability, ensuring they can comfortably share their home with a Havanese.
Why These Specific Breeds Work Well
All these breeds share key qualities such as sociability, adaptability, and a balanced energy level.
These are essential to match the Havanese’s cheerful and friendly nature, energetic personality, and adaptable temperament.
➡️ Firstly, all these breeds are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They love being around other animals and humans, aligning perfectly with the Havanese’s outgoing personality. This trait ensures they’ll enjoy each other’s company and can foster a strong bond between them.
➡️ Secondly, these breeds are adaptable. Whether it’s adjusting to a new environment or getting used to different people and animals, these breeds can manage change comfortably, a quality the Havanese share. This adaptability helps in creating a harmonious living situation.
➡️ Lastly, these breeds have balanced energy levels. Whether it’s the Labrador’s love for games or the Yorkshire Terrier’s zest for play, these breeds can match the Havanese’s energetic nature, ensuring they can keep each other entertained without getting overwhelmed.
Knowing Your Havanese’s Preferences
One of the best ways to determine what type of dog your Havanese might prefer as a companion is by observing their behavior around other dogs.
One of the best ways to know which dogs your Havanese already likes. ➡️
Frequent visits to the dog park or participating in dog group meet-ups can provide valuable insights.
Here, your Havanese will interact with a variety of breeds and personalities, and over time, you might begin to notice a pattern in their preferences.
Pay attention to the energy levels, sizes, and temperaments of the dogs your Havanese naturally gravitates towards. Do they enjoy playing with the active, large breeds, or do they prefer the company of smaller, more laid-back dogs? Are they drawn to social butterflies or more aloof companions?
Recognizing these preferences can guide your decision when selecting a new furry friend.