Havanese Health Problems & Prevention
Common health issues, symptoms to watch for, and how to keep your Havanese healthy.
Common Havanese health problems
Based on veterinary research and breed health studies
Kneecap dislocation where the patella moves out of its normal position, common in small breeds.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Skipping or hopping gait
- Sudden leg lifting
- Reluctance to jump
- Locking of hind leg
Prevention Tips
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid excessive jumping
- Ramps instead of stairs
- Genetic screening for breeding
A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, causing the ball and socket to grind instead of sliding smoothly.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Limping or bunny-hopping gait
- Difficulty rising or jumping
- Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
- Loss of muscle mass in hind legs
Prevention Tips
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid over-exercising puppies
- Ask your vet about joint supplements
- Choose reputable breeders with hip-tested parents
Clouding of the eye lens causing vision impairment, can be hereditary or develop with age or diabetes.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Cloudy or bluish eyes
- Bumping into objects
- Hesitancy in dim light
- Eye inflammation
Prevention Tips
- Annual eye exams
- Manage diabetes if present
- Choose breeders with eye-tested parents
- Have any cloudiness checked early
A health condition that may affect some Havanese dogs based on owner reports.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Behavioral changes
- Physical discomfort
- Changes in appetite or activity
Prevention Tips
- Regular vet checkups
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Early detection through monitoring
A health condition that may affect some Havanese dogs based on owner reports.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Behavioral changes
- Physical discomfort
- Changes in appetite or activity
Prevention Tips
- Regular vet checkups
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Early detection through monitoring
Recommended Genetic Tests
Ask breeders for these health clearances before buying a puppy
As a small breed, Havanese dogs may be prone to:
Patellar Luxation
Kneecap dislocation, common in toy and small breeds
Dental Disease
Crowded teeth in small mouths lead to faster tartar buildup
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, especially in puppies and small dogs
Tracheal Collapse
Weakening of windpipe cartilage, causes coughing
Havanese health timeline
What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Havanese healthy.
Puppy
0-1 year
- Complete vaccination series
- Discuss spay/neuter timing with your vet
- Socialization and training foundation
- Deworming and parasite prevention
- Establish dental care routine
Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then at 6 and 12 months
Adult
1-7 years
- Annual wellness exams and vaccinations
- Dental cleaning as needed
- Maintain healthy weight
- Watch for early signs of breed-specific conditions
- Regular heartworm and flea prevention
Annually, more often if concerns arise
Senior
7+ years
- Wellness exams every 6 months
- Blood work and organ function screening
- Joint supplements and pain management
- Adjust diet for senior needs
- Watch for common age-related conditions in Havanese dogs
Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually
Questions to Ask Your Vet About Havaneses
What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?
Are there any genetic tests available for common Havanese conditions?
What is the ideal weight range for my Havanese?
When should we start joint supplements or senior care?
What early warning signs should I watch for, given this breed's health profile?
Do you recommend pet insurance for Havaneses?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common health issues in Havaneses?
How long do Havaneses typically live?
Are Havaneses prone to allergies?
How often should I take my Havanese to the vet?
Should I get pet insurance for my Havanese?
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