Havanese have a long, silky, double coat that grows continuously and mats readily. Most owners keep a puppy cut at $55–$95 every 4–6 weeks. The full corded or long coat is a serious daily commitment.
The coat
Unusually, the Havanese coat is both double-layered and silky-long. It's lighter and softer than most double coats — the breed originated in Cuba and the coat evolved to insulate against heat as much as cold.
It sheds very little, which suits allergy sufferers and is precisely why it mats. Loose hair stays in the coat and knots with the hair still growing.
Cut options
- Puppy cut — one to two inches all over, rounded face. The practical default and what most owners choose.
- Teddy bear cut — fuller face, slightly longer body.
- Full long coat — floor-length and flowing. Requires daily line brushing.
- Corded — the coat deliberately formed into cords, like a Puli. Striking, rare, and a long-term commitment that takes years to establish and cannot be brushed out.
What it costs
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Full groom, puppy cut | $55–$95 |
| Bath & tidy | $35–$60 |
| Long coat maintenance | $75–$120 |
| Dematting surcharge | $15–$30 per 15 min |
Annual cost: roughly $550–$1,000.
Home care
Line brush daily. Part the coat to the skin, brush the exposed section outward, move the parting up, repeat. Surface brushing lets mats form unseen underneath.
Comb to confirm. A steel comb should pass from skin to tip anywhere on the dog. If it catches, that area isn't finished.
Mist first — never brush a dry silky coat, which snaps.
Friction points first: behind the ears, armpits, collar line, hindquarters.
Trim around the eyes so hair doesn't cause irritation, and wipe the area daily on light-colored dogs.
Frequently asked questions
Do Havanese shed?
Very little. That's the appeal, and it's also why daily brushing matters — the loose hair has nowhere to go but into a mat.
Can I shave a Havanese?
Yes, and many owners do in summer or after matting. The coat regrows normally. Leave half an inch for sun protection.
How often do Havanese need professional grooming?
Every four to six weeks in a puppy cut, with daily brushing at home.
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