Do you think getting a purebred or mixed breed havanese is better?

Question

I was considering health. It would be awful if the havanese comes down with a genetic health problem. So responsible breeders are the best bet. On the other hand, what about animal shelters? Will most of the dogs there have health problems? Thanks!!

Answer 1

I have a Havanese dog with a genetic liver disease who is functioning beautifully and living a normal, healthy life supported by vitamin supplements and a special diet. A genetic disease is not a death sentence - in fact, I would not trade my dog for any other! Havanese dogs are sturdy, playful, extremely intelligent, and wonderful with both children and adults.

The most common genetic problems among Havanese are nearly as common in the mixed breed population as they are in the purebred population. Mixed breed dogs can be somewhat less likely to have certain genetic disorders, but just as likely to exhibit other genetic health problems. You can read more about the genetics of mixed breeds at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed-breed_dog

A reputable breeder will perform extensive genetic testing on her animals and maintain detailed ancestral records to help prevent genetic defects from appearing in her puppies. This is the case whether a breeder is raising mixed pups or purebred dogs. You are less likely to get a family history on a shelter dog, but if you are interested in exploring that option, check out Havanese Rescue's dogs for adoption:
http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?action=1&pet.Shelterid=AZ181&preview=1

I am including some links in the source section below that were very helpful to me in learning more about Havanese health problems and what to look for in a breeder. Wherever you choose to get your dog, please make sure the necessary genetic testing has been done. Good luck!

Answer 2

I doubt you will find a purebred or mixed Havanese in a shelter. But you're wonderful to consider adoption from a shelter. If you are incredibly lucky you may find one through a rescue.

That said there is no guarantee that a dog directly from a breeder will be healthy unless the breeder follows strict guidlines to ensure the health of the dogs they breed. That may seem obvious to assume, the thing is there are so many irresponsible purebred breeders out there just finding a truly good one could be tricky.

I know many people who bought other breeds of purebreds from "good" breeders who developed early onset dysplasia and other health issues they assumed they would never have to deal with because they went to a breeder. You should do a lot of research on this breed, learn if there are any common genetic problems that can be screened for in the parents, then make sure the breeder you buy from carries out testing for any genetic issues you are concerened about.

If it's in your heart to adopt I would recommend checking out rescues and shelters and I'm sure if you give it some time you will find a dog that resembles a Havanese that needs a loving home. My little guy is from a kill-shelter and his health has been perfect in the almost 4 years that I've had him. Have you tried Petfinder.com?

Answer 3

What is it u like about this dog, the looks?

If the looks go with a mix that look like this kind, so the heath problem with not affect it but you get the same cute puppy u what

Also money a pure bred will cost more money than a mix, so get a mix

Answer 4

You should get a mix because since they have both sides of different dogs then they will have a more out-right personality. As of health, you should still get a mix because they are less likely to get a disease.

PS: The vet told me all of this!

Answer 5

WTF???

Duh......if it's "mixed"(MUTT/MONGREL!!) then it's AUTOMATICALLY ****NOT**** any breed!!

Havanese are NOT running around loose making MUTTS!
There will NOT be any dumped in pounds either!

ONLY buy from a REPUTABLE breeder!

MUTT/MONGRELS are ***NOT*** "healthier" or "smarter" or any other LIE spread by CROOKS that have a shi*-pile of CRAP to peddle to the gullible morons.