The Havanese, or “Havana Silk dog,” is a beautiful pup for your family. This breed was established in Cuba and has become a well-loved family dog breed. They are descendants of the Bichon lineage. They are intelligent, curious, loving, and loyal to their families. They usually have a favorite member of the family. They enjoy companionship so do well in families where they are not left alone for long periods of time. They are not yappy or aggressive but will warn of approaching strangers. Havanese are generally healthy dogs and enjoy time outdoors unless temperatures are too extreme. However, this breed does have some specific medical concerns. These potential issues should be taken into consideration when choosing food. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian to assess their nutritional needs based on their size, activity levels, and potential health problems such as:
- Luxating Patella (knee issues)
- hip dysplasia/Elbow dysplasia
- Skin issues
- Liver disease
- Cataracts
- Heart issues
- food allergies
Like with many dog breeds, the Havanese breed, although active, does not need excessive exercise. They are happy to walk as long as you do. Their exercise regime needs to be considered when choosing food, so you can gauge their caloric needs. Taking medical issues and lifestyle choices into consideration and with some veterinarian consultation, you can make a good nutritional choice for your dog.
What Brand of Dog Food is Best for Your Havanese?
The Havanese is an interesting breed. Even though they are little, they are busy. They have been used to herd chickens and carry out other duties of the farm too. They often weigh around ten pounds, and this could be a little more or less depending on their breeding. When choosing food for your dog, make sure to look at his lifestyle and health needs. Havanese need smaller kibble with a good balance of protein and fat. They should not be allowed to graze all day with their food so two measured meals a day for adults is the best. As with all dogs, it’s best to find a food that lists a named protein as their first ingredient. This makes sure it is coming from a quality source. The other necessity is a good fat that can provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and DHA to support skin and immune system health. Make sure you go for high-quality dog food that stays away unnamed ingredients, artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives as none of them are beneficial. A good nutritional choice will benefit your Havanese and keep him healthy and happy into old age.
The Best Food Options for Your Havanese
These pretty dogs have become more popular over the years and their numbers have grown. They have fun personalities and want to be part of the family dynamic. They grow quickly out of puppyhood due to their small size. Their metabolism is fast so need food with the nutrients to meet that. Their small stature can lead to potential bone issues in their legs, so proper nutrition is essential to maintain their long-term health so they can continue to keep up with family activities pain-free. Medical predispositions and activity levels need to be considered when you look at their nutritional needs along with their veterinarian. Choosing good tasting, quality food in their younger days will be beneficial when it comes to their health in their later years. Whether you are looking for standard pet food for small dogs, raw food, wet food, dry dog food, or grain-free dog food, just what is the best dog food for Havaneses? Read on to find out what’s best for your dog’s diet.
Food for Your Havanese Puppy
Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Puppy Holistic Entrée Grain-Free
This product offers a solid recipe for your Havanese puppy as it’s a Limited Ingredient Diet (LID). It is filled with vitamins and minerals beneficial for growth and health support. It has a single protein with pro and prebiotics for digestive health and their recipe is supports heart, kidney, and liver health. It also has no by-products, GMOs, or artificial ingredients.
Pros: Recipe reduces allergy issues, has complex carbs, energy supportive
Cons: Higher price point, may raise the alkalinity of urine
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy
This a great product that focuses on brain and eye development by including DHA and ARA in its recipe while building strong bones and the immune system. It has smaller bite-sized kibble for pups that are on the smaller side. It’s high in protein and good fat with lots of quality nutrients. It offers a great nutritional start for your pup.
Pros: DHA and ARA for brain and eye development, protein first ingredient
Cons: Pricey, taste not for all dogs
Food for Havanese Adults
Caster & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Organic Small Breed
This recipe is a great organic option for your Havanese. It is grain-free with a good balance of meat and vitamins and minerals. The omega-3 and omega-6 protect their skin and coat and calcium and phosphorus to keep any potential dental issues from occurring. It’s a great option for an adult Havanese, especially if they have the potential for allergies.
Pros: Uses organic free-range chicken, bite-size kibble, cooked in a grain-free facility
Cons: Higher price point, need to watch calorie intake
Victor Yukon River Salmon & Sweet Potato
This recipe is considered a premium recipe that will suit the needs of your Havanese. It has high protein content from fish which also offers omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It is grain-free, which makes it a great option for dogs that are prone to allergies. There are no unnamed by-products or unnecessary additives in this quality food.
Pros: Small kibble, good protein, and fiber
Cons: Strong smell, pricey
Conclusion
There are recipes that will give you optimal nutritional balance for your Havanese. These active pups are fairly healthy, but it never hurts to make sure to check on potential medical issues so as to buy a product that supports their long-term health. A conversation with your dog’s veterinarian about possible medical issues is beneficial when assessing your pups’ nutritional requirements. A good choice means better health for your Havanese.