Quick Answer:
Havanese need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, costing $45-$80 per session. They have a long, silky coat that is low-shedding but high-maintenance. Daily brushing is essential for long coats. Most pet owners choose a puppy cut for easier upkeep.
Havanese Coat Overview
Havanese have a long, soft, silky double coat that is lightweight and flowing. At 7-13 pounds, they are a small breed with a coat that can grow to 6-8 inches if left uncut. Designed for a tropical climate, their coat insulates against sun rather than cold.
Havanese are low-shedding, making them popular with allergy sufferers. However, loose hair gets caught within the coat, meaning without regular brushing, mats form quickly. Like Maltese and Shih Tzus, their coat grows continuously and needs regular trimming.
Step-by-Step Home Grooming Routine
Step 1: Daily Brushing
Brush daily for a long coat or every other day for a puppy cut. Use a pin brush or slicker brush, working in sections from the skin outward. Mist with detangling spray first. Follow with a steel comb to check for tangles, especially behind the ears and in the armpits.
Step 2: Bathing
Bathe every 1-2 weeks for a long coat, or every 2-3 weeks for a puppy cut. Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Rinse completely and apply conditioner for detangling.
After bathing, dry your Havanese thoroughly while brushing to prevent mats from forming
Step 3: Drying
Dry with a low-heat dryer while brushing the coat straight. Never let a Havanese air dry — the coat will mat and tangle. Work in sections from the skin outward.
Step 4: Nail, Ear, and Dental Care
Trim nails every 2-3 weeks. Clean ears weekly. Brush teeth daily or at least 3 times per week. Clean around eyes daily to prevent tear staining. Keep hair around the eyes trimmed or tied up.
Havanese Grooming Cost
| Service | Cost Range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bath, brush & haircut | $45-$80 | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Nail trim (add-on) | $10-$18 | Every 2-3 weeks |
| Ear cleaning (add-on) | $5-$15 | At each groom |
Expect to spend $450-$800 per year on professional Havanese grooming. For more details, see our dog grooming cost guide.
When to See a Professional Groomer
- Regular haircuts: Every 4-6 weeks for puppy cut or show trim
- Mat removal: Professionals can safely address matted areas
- Full coat conditioning: Professional treatments keep the silky coat smooth
- Ear hair plucking: Safe removal of hair from the ear canal
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How often should a Havanese be groomed?▼
Havanese should be professionally groomed every 4-6 weeks. Brush daily for a long coat or every other day for a puppy cut.
Do Havanese shed?▼
Havanese are low-shedding. Loose hair gets caught in the coat rather than falling off, which is why daily brushing is essential.
How much does Havanese grooming cost?▼
Havanese grooming costs $45-$80 per session. Annual costs range from $450-$800.
What is a Havanese puppy cut?▼
A puppy cut trims the coat to an even 1-2 inches all over. It significantly reduces daily brushing while maintaining an adorable appearance.
How do you prevent matting in a Havanese?▼
Prevent matting by brushing daily using a pin brush and steel comb. Mist with detangling spray. Pay attention to behind the ears, armpits, and collar area.
The Bottom Line
Havanese need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, costing $45-$80 per session. Their silky coat is low-shedding but requires daily brushing in a long coat. A puppy cut makes home care much more manageable.
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