Appearance of the Havamalt
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The Havamalt is a plush dog with a slender, moderately robust body. It looks very much like each of its parents. It's hard enough to tell them apart. More than other hybrid dogs, this means that there's already a lot of uniformity in the Havamalt population, and it's fairly easy to predict what an individual will look like as an adult. The Havamalt's head is rounded and relatively small, with ears that hang close to the face and are set wide apart. They have circular dark-brown eyes that seem to give them a pleading expression at all times. Their muzzle is not too short and ends in a shiny black nose that rests perfectly on the front of the face. Their body is slightly rectangular and their limbs not too long. All individuals should have a tail that curves over the back and has a distinctive plume of fur. Weighing from 3 to 7 kg and measuring just 20 to 27 cm at the withers, this toy breed is both small and light. Perhaps best known for its magnificent coat, the Havamalt's fur is long and thick with a slightly stiff texture. The breed's puppies can be white like the Maltese parent or take after the Havana Bichon and have red, brown, cream or black fur. Many will have a mixture of two colors, such as brown and white. |
Temperament of the Havamalt
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Mischievous and cheerful, the Havamalt is a pleasure to be around and always seems to be in a good mood. Kind and loving, the Havamalt enjoys the company of its family and is keen to stay close to those it loves. Despite their good nature, some can become impatient with young children and need to be closely supervised when in their company. Alert and lively, Havamalt are excellent watchdogs and will be the first in the house to realize that someone new is arriving. They'll make the visitor's presence known with lots of barking, which can sometimes become tiresome. Their small size and gentle disposition mean they are of no use as guard dogs. Although confident and boisterous when in the company of their family, some dogs can be wary of new people and may remain indifferent in new situations. Thorough socialization can help combat this personality defect and ensure a well-balanced, confident dog who is self-assured in all situations. |
Needs and activities of the Havamalt
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The Havamalt has moderate energy and needs daily exercise, but does not require high-intensity training. The Havamalt is capable of satisfying a sufficient amount of indoor exercise and does not require prolonged, purposeful exercise, however, a small yard is excellent for a quick run. If exercised properly, Havamalt will be easy to keep indoors and is well suited to urban living and small spaces. When out walking in bad or hot weather, make sure your dog doesn't mind the weather elements. Havamalt dogs are known for their playful, attentive nature, which makes them easy to train. Their energy and intensity levels are moderate and, even if they need daily exercise, they can get away with running around the house. |
Maintenance of the Havamalt
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Havamalt is hypoallergenic and has a low excretion rate. Despite its hypoallergenic qualities, the Havamalt needs weekly grooming to maintain its long, silky coat. The Maltese parent has tear-staining problems, and lighter-colored Havamalts may need to clean their eyes to avoid staining. The long hair on and around the ears can attract and trap dirt, debris and moisture. You can avoid ear infections and foul odors by regularly cleaning their ears with a vet-approved solution. Otherwise, Havamalt is not known for having a doggy smell. |