At a glance
- Havanese are generally healthy dogs with a 14-16 year lifespan, but several breed-specific conditions require owner awareness
- Eye disorders like Progressive Retinal Atrophy and cataracts are inherited conditions that benefit from early detection
- Joint problems including patellar luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease commonly affect these small dogs
- Daily dental care and regular vet checkups can prevent many serious health complications
You might notice your Havanese squinting in dim light or favouring one leg during play. While these dogs are known for their robust health and longevity, certain breed-specific conditions appear more frequently in Havanese lines. Understanding what to watch for can make the difference between early intervention and costly complications down the road.
Many Havanese owners worry when they spot the first signs of health issues, but knowledge is your best tool. Research shows that most conditions affecting this breed respond well to early treatment, and some can be prevented entirely with proper care.
Eye conditions that affect vision
Progressive Retinal Atrophy stands out as the most serious eye condition in Havanese dogs. This inherited disease causes photoreceptor cells to break down gradually, starting with difficulty seeing in low light and eventually progressing to complete blindness. You'll typically notice your dog bumping into furniture at night or hesitating to go outside after dark before daytime vision problems develop.
Cataracts create a cloudy appearance in the lens of the eye, while dry eye syndrome results from insufficient tear production. Both conditions cause visible discomfort, with affected dogs often pawing at their eyes or showing redness and discharge.
Regular veterinary eye examinations become crucial if inherited eye conditions run in your dog's lineage. While no effective treatment exists for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, early diagnosis helps you prepare and adapt your home environment. Cataracts and dry eye syndrome respond well to treatment when caught early, preserving your dog's vision and comfort.
Joint and bone problems in small breeds
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease typically appears in Havanese puppies under 18 months old. The condition causes degeneration of the femoral head, creating hip pain and noticeable limping. You might see your puppy suddenly start favouring one leg or showing reluctance to jump or climb stairs.
Patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates, causes intermittent lameness that comes and goes. Many owners describe their dog as "skipping" steps or holding up one back leg briefly before continuing normally. Hip dysplasia, though more common in larger breeds, can affect Havanese, particularly those carrying extra weight.
Treatment approaches vary significantly based on severity. Mild cases often respond well to joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, costing around $30-60 per month. Severe cases may require surgical intervention. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping in young puppies helps prevent many orthopedic issues from developing or worsening.
Dental health challenges
Small breeds face particular dental challenges, and these dogs are no exception. Tartar builds up quickly on smaller teeth, leading to gum disease and tooth loss if left untreated. The bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Bad breath often signals the first stage of dental problems, followed by discoloured gums and difficulty chewing. You might notice your dog dropping food or chewing on only one side of their mouth.
Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste makes the biggest difference in dental health. Products like Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste combined with dental chews such as Greenies typically cost $10-30 per month but prevent expensive dental procedures later. Professional cleanings should happen annually, with more frequent cleanings needed as dogs age.
Heart disease warning signs
Mitral Valve Disease affects many Havanese as they age, causing heart valves to malfunction and potentially leading to heart failure. The condition often develops gradually, making early detection challenging for owners.
Persistent coughing, especially at night, frequently serves as the first warning sign. You might notice your dog tiring more easily during walks or showing shortness of breath after mild exertion. Some dogs develop a distinctive honking cough that worsens when they're excited or active.
Routine heart examinations during annual vet visits can detect murmurs before symptoms appear. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the heart, while prescribed medications can significantly improve quality of life for dogs with diagnosed heart conditions.
Managing allergies and skin conditions
Environmental, food, and contact allergies commonly affect these dogs, often showing up as persistent itching, ear infections, or digestive upset. You'll typically see your dog scratching more than usual, developing red patches on their skin, or experiencing recurring ear problems.
Sebaceous Adenitis represents a more serious autoimmune condition that attacks the sebaceous glands. This rare disease causes dry, itchy skin and gives the coat a dull, unusual odour. Hair may thin or fall out in patches, and affected dogs scratch constantly despite treatments for common allergies.
Identifying specific allergens through veterinary testing helps target treatment effectively. Hypoallergenic diets and specialised shampoos often provide relief for environmental allergies, while Sebaceous Adenitis requires prescription topical treatments and anti-inflammatory medications. Allergy management typically costs $40-100+ per month depending on the severity and type of allergens involved.
Prevention and early detection strategies
Choosing a reputable breeder who performs health testing for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation significantly reduces your dog's risk of inherited conditions. Health clearances from both parents don't guarantee a healthy puppy, but they stack the odds in your favour.
Annual health screenings should include comprehensive eye exams, dental checks, heart auscultation, and orthopedic assessments. Many conditions show subtle early signs that veterinarians can detect before they become obvious to owners.
Maintaining an appropriate weight for your dog's size supports joint health and reduces strain on the heart. Moderate daily exercise keeps muscles strong and joints mobile without overstraining developing bones in puppies. A balanced diet formulated for small breeds provides the nutrition these dogs need throughout their 14-16 year lifespan.
When professional help is needed
Certain symptoms require immediate veterinary attention rather than a wait-and-see approach. Sudden onset limping, signs of vision loss, persistent coughing, or difficulty breathing all warrant same-day veterinary evaluation.
Severe itching that doesn't respond to basic treatments, significant hair loss, or skin infections that worsen despite care may indicate autoimmune conditions like Sebaceous Adenitis. Difficulty eating or obvious dental pain can quickly lead to nutritional problems in small dogs.
Building a relationship with a veterinarian familiar with small breed health issues helps ensure your dog receives appropriate care throughout their life. Many conditions affecting Havanese respond excellently to early intervention, but delayed treatment often leads to more complex and expensive problems later.
