Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Shih-Poo |  Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States, 2000s | Developed in Cuba from small Bichon-type dogs brought by Spanish settlers, refined over centuries as a companion of Havana's wealthy households and later of the Cuban circus and theatre world. The breed nearly vanished after the Cuban revolution, saved by a handful of exiled families who carried their dogs to the United States. |
| Group | Crossbreed | Toy |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Coat | Wavy to curly | Long, silky double coat in white, cream, black, silver, blue, chocolate, Havana brown, or parti colouring |
| Weight | 4 to 9 kg | 4.5 to 7.5 kg |
| Height | 20 to 33 cm | 23 to 28 cm |
| Lifespan | 13 to 16 yrs | 13 to 16 yrs |
| Exercise need | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Affection | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Grooming needs | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Barking | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Good with children | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Trainability | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Prey drive | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Copes alone | 2/10 | 3/10 |
| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Shedding | 2/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Running cost | €88 / month | €130 / month |
Shih-Poo verdict
The teddy bear that wants to be everywhere you are
Get one if
- · Retirees, home workers and households where someone is usually in
- · Calm families with considerate children
- · Flat dwellers; exercise needs are modest
Think again if
- · Homes empty for long working days
- · Anyone unwilling to pay for regular professional grooms
- · People in hot climates without air-conditioning, if the puppy is flat-faced
Havanese verdict
The velcro companion of Cuba, silky-coated and endlessly sociable.
Get one if
- · First-time owners wanting an affectionate, trainable small companion
- · Flats and apartments: small, quiet-to-moderate and adaptable
- · Families with gentle children who want a sociable family dog
Think again if
- · Households where the dog would be alone for full working days
- · Owners unwilling to brush daily or pay for regular grooming
- · Anyone wanting a robust outdoor dog for long hikes in rough country