Havanese vs Poodle (Standard)

Toy · Small vs Non-Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Poodle (Standard) is the larger breed at 60–70 lbs (males) vs 7–13 lbs for the Havanese.
  • The Havanese typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Poodle (Standard) has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitHavanesePoodle (Standard)
Group
ToyNon-Sporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
CubaGermany
Height (male)
8.5–11.5"18–24"
Height (female)
8.5–11.5"18–24"
Weight (male)
7–13 lbs60–70 lbs
Weight (female)
7–13 lbs40–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Havanese

The Havanese is an intelligent, outgoing, funny lapdog — Cuba's national dog with a silky, hypoallergenic coat. Originally from Cuba, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–13 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as intelligent, outgoing, funny.

About the Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems

Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders