Havanese vs Welsh Terrier

Toy · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Welsh Terrier is the larger breed at 20 lbs (males) vs 7–13 lbs for the Havanese.
  • The Havanese typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Welsh Terrier has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitHavaneseWelsh Terrier
Group
ToyTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
CubaWales
Height (male)
8.5–11.5"15–15.5"
Height (female)
8.5–11.5"15–15.5"
Weight (male)
7–13 lbs20 lbs
Weight (female)
7–13 lbs20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)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)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
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 Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is a spirited, friendly, intelligent Welsh otter and badger hunter — looks like a smaller Airedale. Originally from Wales, this small terrier breed typically weighs 20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, friendly, intelligent.

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Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems

Welsh Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies