If you are considering getting a small dog as a companion, two popular options to consider are the Havanese and the Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Yorkie. These breeds are both beloved for their small size and adorable looks, but they have some differences that may help you determine which one is the best fit for you.

The Havanese and Yorkie share some similarities. Both breeds are small in size, making them ideal for apartment living or for those with limited space. Additionally, they are both known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, making them great choices for families with children or individuals seeking a loyal companion.

However, there are some key differences between the Havanese and the Yorkie that may sway your decision. The Havanese is known for its long, silky coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. On the other hand, the Yorkie has a shorter coat that is easier to maintain. If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog, the Yorkie may be the better choice for you.

Another difference between the two breeds is their energy levels. The Havanese is an active and playful breed that requires regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. On the other hand, the Yorkie is known for being less energetic and may be more suitable for individuals or families with a less active lifestyle.

Ultimately, the decision between a Havanese and a Yorkie will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Both breeds make wonderful companions, but it’s important to consider factors such as grooming needs and activity levels to determine which one is the perfect fit for you.

Appearance

The Havanese and the Yorkie are both small dog breeds that are known for their adorable appearance. The Havanese is often described as a “silky terrier,” with a long, flowing coat of fur that comes in a variety of colors, including white, cream, black, and chocolate. Their fur is soft and silky to the touch, and they have a plumed tail that curls over their back.

The Yorkie, on the other hand, has a more compact and elegant appearance. They have a silky, straight coat that is usually tan and blue. Their ears stand erect, and they have a long, flowing tail. Yorkies are small and dainty, with a delicate build.

When it comes to comparing the Havanese and the Yorkie, it’s clear that they both have distinct and charming appearances. The Havanese’s silky coat and plumed tail make them look like a miniature version of a terrier, while the Yorkie’s compact body and elegant coat give them a regal and sophisticated look.

In terms of size, the Havanese and Yorkie are similar. The Havanese is slightly larger, standing at about 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 7 and 13 pounds. The Yorkie, on the other hand, is smaller, with a height of 6 to 7 inches and a weight of 4 to 7 pounds.

Overall, both the Havanese and the Yorkie are small dogs with adorable appearances that make them perfect companions for those looking for a pint-sized pooch.

Personality

The Yorkie and Havanese are both breeds known for their wonderful personalities. While each breed has its own unique traits, they share many similarities in terms of temperament and demeanor.

The Yorkie is known for its confident and bold nature. Despite its small size, the Yorkie has a larger-than-life personality. They are often described as very independent and self-assured. Yorkies are also known to be energetic and playful, always ready for a game or adventure. They are intelligent and quick learners, making them easy to train.

The Havanese, on the other hand, is known for its friendly and outgoing nature. They are often described as social butterflies, always eager to meet new people and make new friends. Havanese dogs are very affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. They are also known to be intelligent and trainable, although they may appreciate a gentle and patient approach. Their joyful and lively nature makes them great companions for families and individuals alike.

Both the Yorkie and Havanese are typically good with children and other pets. They enjoy being part of the family and thrive on attention and affection. However, it is important to note that individual personalities can vary within each breed, so proper socialization and training are key to shaping their behavior.

In summary, both the Yorkie and Havanese are wonderful small dog companions with delightful personalities. Whether you choose a Yorkie or a Havanese, you can expect a loving, loyal, and fun-loving furry friend by your side.

Size

When it comes to size, both the Havanese and the Yorkie are small breeds. The Havanese typically weighs between 7 to 13 pounds and stands about 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder. On the other hand, the Yorkie is even smaller, weighing only 4 to 7 pounds and standing around 6 to 9 inches tall.

Despite their small size, both breeds are known for their big personalities. The Havanese is often described as a “velcro dog” because they love to be by their owner’s side at all times. Similarly, the Yorkie is known for its feisty and confident nature, often exhibiting terrier-like traits.

Havanese

The Havanese is a sturdy and solidly built dog, with a well-balanced body. They have a silky and wavy coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, gold, and silver. Havanese dogs have a long, flowing tail that they carry proudly over their back.

Yorkie

The Yorkie, also known as the Yorkshire Terrier, is a small and compact dog with a graceful and elegant appearance. They have a long, silky coat that is typically blue and tan in color. Yorkies have a docked tail, which is carried high and is an important characteristic of the breed.

To better understand the size comparison between the Havanese and the Yorkie, here is a table summarizing their key measurements:

Breed	Weight	Height
Havanese	7 – 13 pounds	8.5 – 11.5 inches
Yorkie	4 – 7 pounds	6 – 9 inches

Both the Havanese and the Yorkie are small dogs, but their size difference can be slightly noticeable. Ultimately, the choice between a Havanese and a Yorkie should be based on personal preference and lifestyle.

Exercise Needs

When it comes to exercise, both the Havanese and the Yorkie have moderate needs. However, there are some differences to consider.

Havanese Exercise Needs

The Havanese is an active and energetic breed that enjoys exercise, but they don’t require long or vigorous workouts. A daily walk or some playtime in the backyard is usually enough to keep them happy and healthy. They also love participating in low-impact activities such as agility courses or interactive puzzle games.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Havanese can be sensitive to extreme weather conditions. They don’t do well in hot or cold temperatures, so it’s important to adjust their exercise routine accordingly. During hot summer days, keeping their exercise sessions short and providing plenty of shade and water is essential. In the winter, they may need extra layers to keep them warm during outdoor activities.

Yorkie Exercise Needs

The Yorkie, on the other hand, has slightly higher exercise needs compared to the Havanese. They are energetic little dogs that thrive on activity and mental stimulation. Daily walks, interactive play sessions, and short training sessions are recommended to keep them physically and mentally engaged.

Due to their small size, the Yorkie is well-suited for indoor playtime. They enjoy playing fetch, chasing toys, and solving treat puzzles. However, it’s important to note that they have fragile bones, so it’s important to avoid high-impact activities or rough play that could lead to injuries.

Similar to the Havanese, the Yorkie is also sensitive to extreme weather conditions. They are prone to heat exhaustion and frostbite, so it’s crucial to adjust their exercise routine accordingly. It’s best to avoid exercising them during the hottest hours of the day and to protect them from cold temperatures with proper outdoor gear.

In summary, both the Havanese and the Yorkie have moderate exercise needs. While the Havanese requires less exercise overall, the Yorkie benefits from slightly more physical and mental stimulation. It’s important to consider their individual needs, preferences, and weather conditions when planning their exercise routine.

Grooming

Grooming is an important aspect of owning both a Yorkie and a Havanese. Both breeds have long, silky coats that require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.

Yorkie Grooming

The Yorkie has a beautiful and luxurious coat that requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting. A daily brushing with a slicker brush and comb is recommended to keep the coat looking its best. Additionally, regular trips to the groomer are necessary to maintain the Yorkie’s signature haircut. This breed is known for its long, flowing hair, especially on the head, which is often tied up in a topknot. Regular bathing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are also essential for keeping your Yorkie healthy and looking great.

Havanese Grooming

The Havanese also has a long, silky coat that needs regular attention. Daily brushing with a pin brush is recommended to prevent mats and tangles. Havanese owners often choose to keep their dog’s coat long and flowing, or opt for a shorter cut for easier maintenance. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks can help keep the coat in excellent condition. Regular bathing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are important for overall hygiene and health maintenance.

Both the Yorkie and Havanese breeds are known for their silky coats, but each requires slightly different grooming techniques. It’s important to understand the specific needs of your dog’s coat and establish a regular grooming routine to ensure they stay healthy and look their best.

In conclusion, grooming plays a vital role in the care of both the Yorkie and Havanese breeds. It’s important to devote time and attention to maintaining their beautiful coats through regular brushing, grooming appointments, and overall hygiene practices.

Health

When it comes to the health of Havanese and Yorkies, both breeds are generally considered to be healthy and have a long lifespan. However, it’s important to note that like any dog breed, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Common health issues for Havanese

Here are some common health issues that Havanese dogs may be prone to:

Health Issue	Description
Patellar luxation	A condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)	A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.
Chondrodysplasia	A genetic condition that affects the development of cartilage and can lead to issues with mobility.

Common health issues for Yorkies

Here are some common health issues that Yorkies may be prone to:

Health Issue	Description
Patellar luxation	A condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
Tracheal collapse	A condition where the trachea weakens and causes breathing difficulties.
Hypoglycemia	A condition where blood sugar levels drop dangerously low.
Portosystemic shunt (PSS)	A condition where blood vessels bypass the liver, leading to an accumulation of toxins.

In order to ensure the overall health and well-being of your Havanese or Yorkie, it is important to provide them with regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise. Additionally, it is recommended to research reputable breeders who prioritize the health and genetic testing of their dogs.

Trainability

When it comes to trainability, both the Havanese and the Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) are known for their intelligence and ability to learn. However, there are some differences to consider.

The Havanese is a highly trainable breed with a strong desire to please their owners. They are known for their ability to quickly pick up on commands and tricks. They are also known for their eagerness to learn and their willingness to work with their owners. With consistent and positive reinforcement training, Havanese can excel in obedience and other dog sports.

The Yorkshire Terrier, on the other hand, can be a bit more stubborn and independent. While they are intelligent, they may exhibit some resistance to training, especially if they are not properly motivated. Yorkies may require additional patience and persistence during training sessions, but with the right approach and consistent training, they can also become well-trained and obedient companions.

It’s important to note that both the Havanese and the Yorkie can benefit from early socialization and puppy training classes to help them develop good manners and behaviors. This is especially important for the Havanese, as they have a tendency to become anxious or fearful if not properly socialized.

In conclusion, both the Havanese and the Yorkshire Terrier are intelligent and trainable breeds. The Havanese may be slightly easier to train due to their desire to please, while the Yorkie may require more patience and motivation. With proper training and socialization, both breeds can become well-behaved and obedient companions.

Choosing the Right Breed

When deciding to add a small dog companion to your family, it’s important to consider which breed would be the best fit for your lifestyle and preferences. Two popular choices to consider are the Havanese and the Yorkie. While both breeds are small and adorable, they do have some differences that may influence your decision.

Havanese Silky Terrier

The Havanese breed is known for its silky and long coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. This breed is generally friendly, affectionate, and eager to please its owner. Havanese dogs are also known for being good with children and other pets, making them a great choice for families.

Yorkie and Havanese

On the other hand, the Yorkie breed has a long and luxurious coat that requires regular grooming as well. Yorkies are known for their lively and confident personalities, often making them appear bigger than their actual size. They are generally good with children, but may not always get along well with other pets in the household.

When choosing between a Havanese or a Yorkie, it’s important to consider factors such as grooming needs, personality traits, and compatibility with other pets. Both breeds make great companions, but understanding their unique characteristics can help you make the best decision for your family. Whether you prefer the Havanese’s friendly and affectionate nature or the Yorkie’s lively and confident personality, both breeds have their own charm that can bring joy to your home.