Havapoo

Brushing Routine

Havapoos (Havanese x Poodle) develop a silky, wavy to curly coat that combines the Havanese's flowing texture with the Poodle's curl structure. Brush daily using a pin brush for the longer, silky sections and a slicker brush for curlier areas. A steel comb should finish every session, focusing on the beard, ears, and leg furnishings where mats form quickly. The coat has a tendency to wrap around itself, so always brush in the direction of growth from root to tip.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 3-4 weeks with a silk-protein or moisturizing shampoo that enhances the coat's natural softness. Use a lightweight detangling conditioner and comb through the coat while the conditioner is still in for best results. Rinse thoroughly and blow-dry on medium heat, using a pin brush to maintain the coat's natural wave pattern. Avoid heavy products that weigh down the fine Havanese-influenced coat texture.

Common Issues

• Fine coat texture that tangles and mats more easily than coarser doodle coats
• Tear staining common in lighter-colored Havapoos
• Ear infections due to profuse hair growth in and around the ear canal
• Coat discoloration from saliva licking, especially on paws and legs
• Sensitivity to over-brushing that can cause coat breakage in silkier types

Extend Your Grooming Results

Apply a silk-finishing spray after grooming to protect the coat between sessions and add a barrier against tangles. Keep a small slicker brush on hand for quick touch-ups on problem areas throughout the day. Wipe paws after outdoor activity to reduce saliva staining from licking debris off the feet. Trim the ear hair regularly to promote airflow and reduce infection risk. A mid-cycle sanitary and face trim at 3 weeks maintains freshness.

Seasonal Care

Havapoos shed very little year-round, making them a consistent grooming commitment across all seasons. Summer humidity can cause the coat to frizz and mat faster, so apply a smoothing spray and consider a shorter trim. In winter, the coat may dry out from indoor heating -- add a weekly deep conditioning treatment to maintain coat health. Watch for increased tear staining in allergy seasons.

Maintenance Schedule

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Daily brushing with pin brush and comb. Tear stain cleaning 3-4 times weekly. Ear cleaning and hair removal weekly. Nail trims every 3-4 weeks. Mid-cycle face and sanitary trim recommended.