German Shorthaired Lab vs Havanese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: German Shorthaired Labrador Retriever or Havanese Cuban Bichon?

Compare the German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a German Shorthaired Labrador Retriever or a Havanese Cuban Bichon? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

German Shorthaired Labrador Retriever

Havaneser, Bichon Havanese, Bichon Habanero, Havanezer, Bichon Havanês, Bichon Havanais, Havanese Cuban Bichon

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

14.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese

16.0 inches ( 40.6 cm )

12.5 inches ( 31.8 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the German Shorthaired Lab is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Havaneses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese dogs?

Playful
Loving
Energetic
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Trainable
Bold
Cheerful
Cooperative
Boisterous

Affectionate
Gentle
Playful
Companionable
Intelligent
Responsive
Sturdy
Lively
Amiable
Charming

Shedding Level

Do German Shorthaired Labs shed more than Havaneses, or which breed sheds more, German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses?

German Shorthaired Labs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Havaneses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

Choose a German Shorthaired Lab if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Havaneses make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese dog breeds?

United States

Cuba

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds?

Labrador Retriever and German Shorthaired Pointer

Bichon Tenerife, Blanquito de le Habana

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Havanese Club of America

Date of Birth

When were German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds first developed?

Unknown

1700s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds?

Red
Brown
White
Black

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
Brindle
Sable
Silver

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds?

German Shorthaired Labs have medium-length coats.

Havaneses are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

7-12 puppies per pregnancy

A German Shorthaired Lab can have a litter of 7-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

14-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Havanese can have a litter of 14-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

German Shorthaired Lab and Havaneses are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

German Shorthaired Labs typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

While the Havanese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds?

Entropion
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat

Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Cherry Eye
Cataracts
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Heart Murmur

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

Ear Infections

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese breeds?

X-Rays
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination
Blood Work
Lab Tests

Eye
Hip
Hearing
Heart
Liver Ultrasound
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of German Shorthaired Labs and Havaneses compare?

German Shorthaired Labs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Havaneses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

German Shorthaired Lab vs Havanese social needs comparison

German Shorthaired Lab has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Havanese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

German Shorthaired Lab vs Havanese exercise need comparison.

German Shorthaired Labs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Havaneses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

German Shorthaired Labs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Havaneses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses bark more/less frequently?

The German Shorthaired Lab is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Havanese dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shorthaired Lab vs Havanese?

Roaming urge

German Shorthaired Lab vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese entertained?

Dog Parks, Walk, Run, Snuggling

Bike ride, Go on Vacation, Walk, Run, Tug-of-war, Go to Park, Play, Chase, Fetch, High Five, Shake, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Shopping, Dressing up, Go to Beach, Frisbee, Heel, Speak, Brushing, Boat ride, Catch treats, Play keep away, Walking, Petting, Cuddling, Playing, Sit on lap, Groom, Sniff

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses?

High

German Shorthaired Labs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Havaneses are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese walk each week?

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Shorthaired Lab, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Havanese, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most German Shorthaired Labs usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most Havaneses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses?

The German Shorthaired Lab is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

The Havanese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese dogs?

Weekly

German Shorthaired Lab should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Havanese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for German Shorthaired Labs and Havaneses?

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese in cups?

3 cups

For an average 55-80 pound (25 - 36 kg) German Shorthaired Lab feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1.2 cups

For an average 10-15 pound (5 - 7 kg) Havanese feed 1.2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a German Shorthaired Lab is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

The average cost of a Havanese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a German Shorthaired Lab is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$42 - $53 / month

The average per month expenses of a Havanese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: German Shorthaired Labs vs Havaneses

German Shorthaired Lab is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Havaneses are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shorthaired Lab vs Havanese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

German Shorthaired Labs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Havaneses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do German Shorthaired Labs or Havaneses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

Cat Friendly

Do German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

German Shorthaired Labs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Havaneses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

German Shorthaired Labs and Havaneses are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Shorthaired Lab or Havanese?

German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese?

German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese for a mellower experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of German Shorthaired Labs and Havaneses compare?

The German Shorthaired Lab and Havanese are breeds of dogs that are known for being very easy to train. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a great choice for both experienced and novice dog owners.