The Ultimate Guide to the Havanese Shih Tzu Mix: A Comprehensive Look at the Adorable "Havashih"

Introduction

The Havanese Shih Tzu mix, also affectionately known as the "Havashih," is a charming and petite hybrid breed that has captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world. This designer dog is a cross between the playful and affectionate Havanese and the elegant and dignified Shih Tzu, resulting in a playful, intelligent, and hypoallergenic companion.

History and Origin

The Havashih is a relatively new breed, with its origins traced back to the late 20th century. Breeders sought to create a breed that combined the best traits of both the Havanese and Shih Tzu breeds, resulting in a dog that is both affectionate and hypoallergenic. The Havashih has quickly gained popularity as a lapdog and family pet, and is often found in homes with children and other pets.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Weight:
Havashihs are small-sized dogs, with males typically weighing between 7-12 pounds and standing 8-12 inches tall. Females tend to be slightly smaller, weighing between 6-10 pounds and standing 7-11 inches tall.

Coat:
Havashihs inherit their hypoallergenic coat from both parent breeds. Their coat is typically long, silky, and flowing, with minimal shedding. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and parti-colored.

Appearance:
Havashihs have a distinctive appearance that combines the features of both the Havanese and Shih Tzu. They have a slightly rounded head with large, expressive eyes and a short, slightly upturned nose. Their ears are large and feathered, and their tail is held high and curled over their back.

Temperament and Personality

The Havashih is known for its affectionate, playful, and intelligent nature. They are highly adaptable dogs that can thrive in both apartment and house settings.

Affectionate:
Havashihs are extremely affectionate dogs that crave attention and cuddles. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and family members, and will often follow them around the house.

Playful:
Despite their small size, Havashihs are full of energy and love to play. They enjoy chasing toys, going for walks, and interacting with their owners. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for children.

Intelligent:
Havashihs are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please. They are trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement. Their intelligence makes them easy to train and live with.

Care and Grooming

Grooming:
Regular grooming is essential for maintaining the Havashih's beautiful coat. Brushing their coat several times a week will help prevent mats and tangles. They should also be bathed occasionally, especially if they get into dirty or muddy environments.

Exercise:
Havashihs have moderate exercise needs and can be content with short walks or indoor playtime. They enjoy playing fetch, chasing toys, and going for daily walks.

Diet:
Havashihs are small breed dogs and should be fed a high-quality diet specifically formulated for their size and activity level. They should be fed two to three small meals throughout the day.

Health:
Havashihs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health issues associated with the Havashih include:

• Hip dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and lameness.
• Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position.
• Eye problems: Havashihs can be prone to eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.
• Dental disease: Like all dogs, Havashihs are prone to dental disease, including gingivitis and tooth decay.

Training

Havashihs are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train a Havashih, as they respond well to treats, praise, and affection.

Basic obedience commands:
Havashihs should be trained in basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. These commands will help you control your dog in a variety of situations and prevent them from developing behavioral problems.

Potty training:
Havashihs can be difficult to potty train, as they have small bladders and need to go to the bathroom frequently. Patience and consistency are key when potty training a Havashih.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Havashih

Pros:

• Affectionate and loyal
• Hypoallergenic and low-shedding
• Intelligent and easy to train
• Playful and energetic
• Adaptable to apartment and house living

Cons:

• Prone to certain health conditions
• Can be difficult to potty train
• Requires regular grooming
• Can be yappy if not properly trained

Conclusion

The Havanese Shih Tzu mix, or Havashih, is a delightful companion that brings joy and laughter into any home. Their affectionate, playful, and hypoallergenic nature makes them excellent pets for families, couples, and individuals alike. While they may have certain health considerations, Havashihs are generally healthy dogs that can provide years of love and companionship. If you are considering adding a Havashih to your family, be prepared to give them plenty of love, attention, and regular grooming to keep them happy and healthy.