8 Most Important Havanese Grooming Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have a Havanese fur baby, then you know just how adorable and fluffy they can be.

But let’s face it, keeping those luscious locks in tip-top shape requires some grooming know-how.

Don’t worry, though – I’ve got you covered with some paw-some Havanese grooming tips that will have your pup looking like a four-legged fashionista in no time!

Havanese Grooming Tips

Here are some common Havanese grooming tips you should know:

1. Brushing Your Havanese Hair

Brushing the hair of a Havanese dog is an important part of their grooming routine to keep their coat healthy and beautiful.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools – Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need. For brushing a Havanese, you’ll typically want a slicker brush, a comb with both wide and narrow teeth, and possibly some detangling spray or conditioner if your dog’s hair tends to get tangled easily.

Step 2: Create a calm and comfortable environment – Find a quiet and comfortable space where you and your Havanese can relax during the grooming session. It’s essential to create a positive and calm environment so that your dog feels at ease.

Step 3: Start with a gentle brush – Begin by using the slicker brush to gently brush your Havanese’s hair. Start from the head and work your way down to the tail, making sure to brush in the direction of hair growth. Be gentle to avoid pulling or causing discomfort to your dog.

Step 4: Pay attention to the areas prone to tangles – Havanese dogs have long, silky hair, so it’s crucial to pay extra attention to areas prone to tangles, such as behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the tail. Use the slicker brush or your fingers to carefully work through any knots or tangles, being careful not to tug too hard.

Step 5: Switch to the comb – Once you’ve finished using the slicker brush, switch to the comb with wide and narrow teeth. The wide teeth help to remove any remaining loose hair, while the narrow teeth can be used to detangle and smooth the hair further. Comb through the coat gently, ensuring that the comb reaches the skin.

Step 6: Use detangling spray or conditioner if needed – If you encounter particularly stubborn tangles or mats, you can use a detangling spray or conditioner. Apply a small amount to the affected area and use your fingers or a comb to work through the tangle slowly. This will help make the hair more manageable and prevent discomfort for your dog.

Step 7: Check for any foreign objects or skin issues – While you’re brushing, take the opportunity to check your Havanese’s skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or pests like fleas or ticks. Also, keep an eye out for any foreign objects, such as twigs or burrs, which may have gotten stuck in the hair.

Step 8: Reward and praise – Throughout the grooming process, be sure to reward your Havanese with treats and praise. Positive reinforcement can help make brushing a positive experience for your dog, and it will make them more likely to cooperate in future grooming sessions.

2. Trimming Your Havanese Hair

Trimming the hair of a Havanese dog requires some patience and care to avoid Havanese skin issues.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools – Before you start trimming, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need. These typically include dog grooming scissors, a comb or brush, electric clippers, clipper guards, and a grooming table or a non-slip surface to work on.

Step 2: Prepare the dog – Ensure that your Havanese is calm and relaxed before you begin. Brush or comb their coat to remove any tangles or mats. If your dog has any particularly difficult tangles or mats, you may need to gently work through them or consider having a professional groomer address them.

Step 3: Decide on the desired haircut – Decide on the type of haircut you want for your Havanese. Some common options include a puppy cut (short all over), a teddy bear cut (longer hair with a rounded appearance), or a show cut (longer hair left on certain areas of the body). It’s a good idea to have a picture or reference to work from.

Step 4: Trim the body – Start by using electric clippers with an appropriate clipper guard to trim the body. Begin at the neck and work your way down, following the direction of hair growth. Take your time and make sure to trim evenly. Remember to be cautious around sensitive areas such as the groin, nipples, and belly.

Step 5: Trim the legs and paws – Use scissors to trim the hair on the legs and paws. Be careful not to cut too close to the skin or the foot pads. You can use the comb as a guide to help ensure an even cut. Trim any excess hair between the paw pads as well.

Step 6: Trim the face – Trimming the face requires extra care and attention. Use scissors to trim around the eyes, being careful not to get too close. You can also trim the hair around the mouth and ears, but be cautious not to trim too much. The goal is to maintain the Havanese’s characteristic facial expression.

Step 7: Finish with fine-tuning – Once you’ve completed the main trimming, take a step back and assess the overall appearance of your Havanese. Use scissors to make any necessary adjustments, such as blending in uneven areas or tidying up any stray hairs. Take your time and work slowly to achieve the desired look.

Step 8: Reward and praise – Throughout the grooming process, remember to reward your Havanese with treats, praise, and plenty of breaks. This will help keep them calm and make the experience more positive for both of you.

3. Bathing Your Havanese

Here’s what you’ll need and how to go about it:

1. Gather the necessary supplies:

• Dog shampoo (specifically formulated for dogs, not human shampoo)
• Towels
• A non-slip mat for the bathtub or sink
• Cotton balls (for the ears)
• A brush or comb
• Treats or rewards for your dog (optional)

2. Prepare the bathing area:

• Select a warm, well-lit room or bathroom where you can comfortably bathe your dog.
• Place a non-slip mat in the bathtub or sink to provide your dog with traction and prevent slipping.

3. Brush your Havanese dog:

Before getting your dog wet, brush their fur to remove any loose hair or tangles. This will help prevent matting during the bath.

4. Protect the ears:

Havanese dogs have long, floppy ears that can trap water and increase the risk of infection. To prevent this, gently place cotton balls in your dog’s ears to keep them dry.

5. Wet your dog:

Use lukewarm water to wet your Havanese dog’s coat. Make sure to avoid spraying water directly into their face to prevent discomfort.

6. Apply dog shampoo:

• Dilute the dog shampoo with water as per the instructions on the bottle.
• Apply the shampoo to your dog’s coat, starting from the neck and working your way down to the tail. Gently massage the shampoo into their fur, being careful around their eyes and ears.

7. Rinse thoroughly:

Thoroughly rinse your dog’s coat using lukewarm water. Make sure to remove all the shampoo residue to prevent skin irritation.

8. Dry your Havanese dog:

• Use towels to gently pat your dog’s coat and remove excess water. Be cautious not to rub vigorously, as it can cause tangling or matting.
• If your Havanese has long hair, you may want to use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to dry their coat completely. Be sure to keep the dryer at a safe distance and continuously move it to avoid overheating or discomfort.

9. Brush and style:

• Once your Havanese is fully dry, use a brush or comb to gently remove any tangles or mats that may have formed during the bath.
• If desired, you can also trim your dog’s hair or style it according to your preference. However, professional grooming may be necessary for more intricate cuts.

10. Reward and praise:

After the bath, reward your Havanese dog with treats or praise to reinforce positive behavior and make the experience enjoyable for them.

Remember, the frequency of bathing your Havanese dog may vary depending on their lifestyle and coat condition.

It’s generally recommended to bathe them every 6–7 weeks or as needed.

Regular brushing and maintenance will help keep their coat healthy and prevent matting.

4. Cleaning Tear Stains in Havanese

Cleaning tear stains in a Havanese dog involves a step-by-step process.

Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies – You’ll need some warm water, dog-safe eye wipes or a soft cloth, dog-safe tear stain remover solution (optional), and some treats to reward your dog for good behavior.

Step 2: Prepare your dog – Find a calm and comfortable area where you can clean your Havanese dog. Make sure your dog is relaxed and in a cooperative mood.

Step 3: Examine the tear stains – Take a close look at your dog’s tear stains to assess their severity. If the stains are mild, you may be able to clean them with just warm water. However, if the stains are stubborn or have built up over time, you may need a tear stain remover solution.

Step 4: Wet the cloth or eye wipes – If you’re using warm water alone, dampen the cloth with warm water. If you’re using a tear stain remover solution, follow the instructions on the product to dilute it properly.

Step 5: Gently wipe the tear stains – With the damp cloth or eye wipes, gently wipe the tear stains from the inside corner of your dog’s eyes outward. Be careful not to touch your dog’s eyes directly or apply too much pressure. Make sure to remove any crust or debris around the eyes as well.

Step 6: Repeat as necessary – Depending on the severity of the tear stains, you may need to repeat the wiping process a few times. Take breaks in between to allow your dog to rest and ensure that you’re not causing any discomfort.

Step 7: Reward your dog – After each successful cleaning session, reward your Havanese dog with treats and praise. This positive reinforcement will help them associate the process with something enjoyable.

Step 8: Regular maintenance – To prevent tear stains from recurring, it’s important to maintain good eye hygiene. Keep the hair around your dog’s eyes trimmed to reduce irritation and the accumulation of tears. Additionally, consider a diet that’s suitable for your dog’s specific needs, as tear stains can sometimes be related to diet.

Read more about Havanese dog eye problems and care.

5. Brushing Your Havanese Dog’s Teeth

Brushing a Havanese dog’s teeth is an important part of the Havanese dental care routine to prevent dental problems and maintain their overall health.

Here’s a step-by-step process to brush a Havanese dog’s teeth:

Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies – Before you start, make sure you have all the supplies you need. These include a dog toothbrush (either a finger brush or a toothbrush with soft bristles), dog toothpaste (never use human toothpaste as it can be harmful to dogs), and some treats or rewards to make the experience positive for your dog.

Step 2: Get your dog comfortable – Find a quiet and comfortable area where you can brush your Havanese dog’s teeth. It’s important to create a positive and relaxed environment to make the experience more enjoyable for your dog. You can start by petting and reassuring your dog to help them relax.

Step 3: Introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste – Let your dog sniff and investigate the toothbrush and toothpaste. Allow them to get familiar with the scents and tastes. This will help them become more comfortable with the process. You can even let them lick a small amount of toothpaste to get used to the flavor.

Step 4: Begin brushing – Once your dog is comfortable with the toothbrush and toothpaste, it’s time to start brushing. Gently lift your dog’s lips and use the toothbrush to brush their teeth in a circular motion. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth, as that’s where most plaque and tartar build-up occurs. Be sure to brush the back teeth as well.

Step 5: Use positive reinforcement – Throughout the brushing process, provide positive reinforcement to your Havanese dog. Offer praise, petting, and small treats as rewards for their cooperation. This will help them associate teeth brushing with a positive experience.

Step 6: Take it slow and be patient – If your dog is not used to having their teeth brushed, it may take some time for them to get comfortable with the process. Start with short brushing sessions and gradually increase the duration over time. Be patient and avoid rushing them, as this can make them anxious or uncooperative.

Step 7: Complete the session – Once you have brushed all your dog’s teeth, end the session on a positive note. Give them plenty of praise and a treat as a reward. This will help reinforce the positive association with teeth brushing.

Step 8: Maintain a regular brushing schedule – To keep your Havanese dog’s teeth clean and healthy, it’s important to establish a regular brushing schedule. Aim to brush their teeth at least two to three times a week, if not daily. Consistency is key to maintaining good oral hygiene.

6. Trimming Your Havanese Dog’s Nails

Trimming your dog’s nails is an important part of their grooming routine and can help prevent discomfort or potential injuries.

Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies – Before you begin, it’s important to have all the supplies you’ll need within reach. You’ll need a pair of dog nail clippers or a grinder specifically designed for dogs, styptic powder or cornstarch (to stop bleeding in case you accidentally cut the quick), and treats to reward your dog for their cooperation.

Step 2: Get your dog comfortable – Find a quiet and well-lit area where you can comfortably work with your Havanese. Make sure your dog is relaxed and at ease before proceeding. You might want to give them a few minutes to sniff and explore the grooming area to help them feel more comfortable.

Step 3: Familiarize your dog with the clippers – Introduce your dog to the nail clippers or grinder by allowing them to sniff and investigate the tool. This will help them become familiar with it and reduce any anxiety they may have.

Step 4: Examine the nails – Take a close look at your dog’s nails and identify the quick, which is the pink area within the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. You should avoid cutting into the quick, as it can be painful and cause bleeding. If your dog has clear or light-colored nails, you can easily see the quick. However, if your dog has dark nails, you should exercise extra caution.

Step 5: Begin trimming – Take one paw at a time and hold it gently but securely. If your dog becomes anxious or uncomfortable, you can try having a family member or friend help by providing gentle reassurance or treats. Start by trimming a small amount of the nail, aiming to avoid the quick. If you’re using clippers, make sure to use a smooth, swift motion to prevent splintering the nail. If you’re using a grinder, apply light pressure and grind the nail in small increments.

Step 6: Monitor your progress – Regularly check the nail after each trim to see how close you are to the quick. You should stop trimming once you start seeing a pale oval or pinkish area in the center of the nail. This indicates that you’re getting close to the quick, and any further trimming might cause discomfort or bleeding.

Step 7: Be cautious with dark nails – If your Havanese has dark nails, it can be challenging to see the quick. In such cases, it’s recommended to trim small amounts at a time and observe the center of the nail. When you start to see a grayish or pinkish color in the center, it’s an indication that you’re approaching the quick. Take extra care and make shallower cuts to avoid any mishaps.

Step 8: Use treats and positive reinforcement – Throughout the process, remember to reward your dog with treats and praise for their cooperation. This will help create a positive association with nail trimming and make future sessions easier.

Step 9: Address any bleeding – If you accidentally cut the quick and your dog’s nail starts bleeding, don’t panic. Apply styptic powder or cornstarch to the bleeding area to help stop the bleeding. Apply gentle pressure for a few seconds until the bleeding subsides. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian.

7. Cleaning Your Havanese Dog’s Ears

Cleaning a Havanese dog’s ears is an important part of their grooming routine. It helps prevent infections and keeps their ears healthy.

Here’s a step-by-step process for cleaning a Havanese dog’s ears:

Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies – Before you begin, make sure you have all the supplies you need. You’ll need a dog ear cleaning solution that is specifically formulated for dogs. You can find these solutions at pet supply stores or your veterinarian’s office. You’ll also need some cotton balls or gauze pads for cleaning, and a towel or tissue to wipe away any excess solution.

Step 2: Find a calm and comfortable space – Choose a quiet and comfortable area where you can clean your Havanese’s ears. You want to make sure your dog feels relaxed and secure during the process. It might be helpful to have someone else present to help hold your dog or provide treats as a reward.

Step 3: Inspect the ears – Before you start cleaning, take a moment to inspect your Havanese’s ears. Look for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or foul odor. If you notice any of these symptoms or if your dog seems to be in pain, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian before proceeding with cleaning.

Step 4: Apply the ear cleaning solution – Carefully follow the instructions on the ear cleaning solution bottle. Gently lift your Havanese’s ear flap and apply a few drops of the solution into the ear canal. Be sure not to insert the dropper or any other object too deep into the ear canal, as this can cause injury.

Step 5: Massage the base of the ear – Once you’ve applied the ear cleaning solution, gently massage the base of your Havanese’s ear for about 20-30 seconds. This helps distribute the solution and loosen any debris or wax buildup inside the ear.

Step 6: Wipe away the debris – Take a cotton ball or gauze pad and gently wipe away any debris or excess solution from the ear. Be careful not to push the debris further into the ear canal. You can use your finger to hold the cotton ball or gauze pad, but avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the ear canal.

Step 7: Repeat the process if necessary – If your Havanese’s ears are particularly dirty, you may need to repeat steps 4 to 6 a few times until the ears are clean. Always use a fresh cotton ball or gauze pad for each ear to avoid spreading any infection.

Step 8: Reward and praise – Once you’ve finished cleaning your Havanese’s ears, reward them with treats and praise. This positive reinforcement helps create a positive association with the ear cleaning process and makes it easier for future cleanings.

8. Cleaning Your Havanese Dog’s Paws

Cleaning a Havanese dog’s paws is an important part of their grooming routine.

Here’s a step-by-step process to help you clean your Havanese dog’s paws:

Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies. You will need a clean towel, a small basin or bowl filled with warm water, dog-friendly shampoo, and some cotton balls or soft cloth.

Step 2: Find a calm and comfortable area where you can work with your Havanese. It could be a bathroom or any other space that is easy to clean up.

Step 3: Gently place your Havanese on a towel and secure them in a comfortable position, ensuring they won’t slip or escape.

Step 4: Take one of your dog’s paws and dip it into the warm water. Hold it there for a few seconds to allow the water to soak the paw.

Step 5: Once the paw is moistened, take a small amount of dog-friendly shampoo and apply it to the cotton ball or cloth. Gently rub the shampoo onto the paw, including the areas between the toes and pads. Be careful not to use too much pressure or scrub too vigorously.

Step 6: After applying the shampoo, use your fingers to massage the paw gently. This will help loosen any dirt, debris, or trapped hair.

Step 7: Once you have thoroughly cleaned the paw, take a clean cotton ball or cloth and dip it in clean, warm water. Use it to rinse off the shampoo from the paw. Make sure to remove all traces of the shampoo.

Step 8: Use a clean towel to gently pat the paw dry. Be careful not to rub too harshly, as this can cause irritation.

Step 9: Repeat steps 4 to 8 for each of your Havanese dog’s paws, ensuring that you clean them all thoroughly.

Step 10: Once you have cleaned all the paws, give your Havanese some praise and reward them with a treat for their cooperation and good behavior during the cleaning process.

Havanese Grooming Schedule

Grooming a Havanese dog is important to keep their coat healthy and looking fabulous.

You’ll want to brush their coat at least 2-3 times a week to prevent mats and tangles – a slicker brush works wonders for this.

Bathing your Havanese every 5-7 weeks will help keep their coat clean and soft, using a gentle dog shampoo.

Don’t forget to trim their nails every 1-2 months to keep them at a comfortable length.

Oh, and regular ear cleaning – once a week should do the trick – to prevent wax build-up and potential infections.

Lastly, a trip to the groomer for a professional trim every 6-8 weeks will keep your Havanese looking their absolute best!

Remember, a well-groomed Havanese is a happy Havanese.

Read more about caring for your Havanese dog.

Conclusion

So there you have it, fellow pet parents! Remember, grooming your Havanese is not just about maintaining their appearance—it’s about keeping them healthy and happy. With regular brushing, occasional trims, and attention to their ears and teeth, you can ensure your furry friend stays primped, pampered, and looking pawsitively adorable!