Havanese vs Skye Terrier

Toy · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Skye Terrier is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 7–13 lbs for the Havanese.
  • The Havanese typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Havanese sheds less.
  • The Havanese is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitHavaneseSkye Terrier
Group
ToyTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
CubaScotland
Height (male)
8.5–11.5"10"
Height (female)
8.5–11.5"9.5"
Weight (male)
7–13 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
7–13 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism