Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get to choose my puppy?
I usually decide which puppy will be the best fit for you based on your preferences and where I believe each pup will thrive best. Puppies aren’t evaluated until around 8–9 weeks, and I always reserve the right to keep any potential show prospects.
If you want to pick your puppy ahead of time, I’m probably not the breeder for you. My priority is matching puppies thoughtfully to their forever homes for the best possible outcomes.
Will my puppy come with health records?
Yes! Your puppy will go home with a “baby book” that includes all health records and key dates for easy reference.
When should we schedule the first vet visit?
As outlined in your contract, your puppy must see a vet within 72 hours of going home. This confirms they are just as healthy as I believe them to be and as confirmed by our veterinarian appointment.
What’s the vaccine schedule?
Should we free-feed or follow a schedule?
Stick with scheduled meals—puppies thrive on routine, and it makes house training easier.
Can we feed a raw diet?
Absolutely. A raw diet can be very beneficial. I recommend using commercially prepared raw options to ensure proper balance. If you plan to switch, wait at least 30 days after bringing your puppy home so they can settle in first.
Learn more: Commercial Raw Diet Guide
Will my puppy come home with something comforting?
Yes. Your puppy goes home with a blanket that smells like mom and the littermates to help ease the transition.
What’s the biggest mistake new owners make?
Too much freedom too soon. This can set back house training.
Tips for success:
How much activity is too much?
Short and focused play sessions followed by rest are best. Avoid overstimulation. You can start teaching basic tricks and commands early—Havanese puppies are smart and eager to please.
Can I take my puppy out in public?
Yes, but with caution.
What grooming does my puppy need?
Should we use a collar or a harness?
It’s a matter of personal preference, but keep in mind:
When should we spay or neuter?
Still have questions? I’m always just a message away. I’m here to support you every step of the way and I’m so excited for you to meet your new best friend.
I usually decide which puppy will be the best fit for you based on your preferences and where I believe each pup will thrive best. Puppies aren’t evaluated until around 8–9 weeks, and I always reserve the right to keep any potential show prospects.
If you want to pick your puppy ahead of time, I’m probably not the breeder for you. My priority is matching puppies thoughtfully to their forever homes for the best possible outcomes.
Will my puppy come with health records?
Yes! Your puppy will go home with a “baby book” that includes all health records and key dates for easy reference.
When should we schedule the first vet visit?
As outlined in your contract, your puppy must see a vet within 72 hours of going home. This confirms they are just as healthy as I believe them to be and as confirmed by our veterinarian appointment.
What’s the vaccine schedule?
- First vaccine – Given here before your puppy leaves
- Second and third vaccines – Book two more appointments, spaced 4 weeks apart
- Do NOT give the Corona or Leptospirosis vaccines
Learn why: Leptospirosis Risks - Do not give the Rabies vaccine at the same time as other shots
- Your puppy is small—spaced-out vaccines prevent system overload
- Next booster is due one year later
- Annual vaccines aren’t required. Many vets now support three-year protocols or titer testing
Learn more:
Should we free-feed or follow a schedule?
Stick with scheduled meals—puppies thrive on routine, and it makes house training easier.
- Feed inside the crate, then potty time, then play
- Monitor food and water intake to avoid low blood sugar
- Up to 4 months: 3 meals per day
- 4 to 10 months: 2 meals per day
- Adult: 1 to 2 meals per day
Can we feed a raw diet?
Absolutely. A raw diet can be very beneficial. I recommend using commercially prepared raw options to ensure proper balance. If you plan to switch, wait at least 30 days after bringing your puppy home so they can settle in first.
Learn more: Commercial Raw Diet Guide
Will my puppy come home with something comforting?
Yes. Your puppy goes home with a blanket that smells like mom and the littermates to help ease the transition.
What’s the biggest mistake new owners make?
Too much freedom too soon. This can set back house training.
Tips for success:
- Always supervise your puppy
- Learn their potty cues
- Start outdoor training right away—even in winter
- Use a bell on the door to teach them how to signal
- Use pee pads or grass patches in a consistent location if needed
How much activity is too much?
Short and focused play sessions followed by rest are best. Avoid overstimulation. You can start teaching basic tricks and commands early—Havanese puppies are smart and eager to please.
Can I take my puppy out in public?
Yes, but with caution.
- Avoid pet stores and public sidewalks until two weeks after the third vaccine
- Safer outings, like certain stores where the puppy doesn’t touch the floor, are great
- Begin car rides and safe visits early on
- Puppy classes are okay after the second vaccine
- Schedule a “meet the groomer” visit after the third vaccine
- Avoid public dog parks due to risks of illness and injury; private dog parks or arranged playdates are safer options
What grooming does my puppy need?
- Trim nails weekly—including dew claws
- Keep the bum area trimmed to avoid blockages
- Gently pluck some ear hair to help prevent infections (I’m happy to show you how)
- Puppies here are used to baths, blow drying, and trims—please keep up the routine with weekly baths and nail trims
Should we use a collar or a harness?
It’s a matter of personal preference, but keep in mind:
- Harnesses must fit properly
- Avoid anything that restricts shoulder movement
Let me know if you want photo examples for proper fit.
When should we spay or neuter?
- Neuter: No earlier than 12 months, ideally closer to 24 months
- Spay: After the first heat cycle and at least 12 months old—ideally 3 months post-heat
Do not let your veterinarian rush this decision.
Still have questions? I’m always just a message away. I’m here to support you every step of the way and I’m so excited for you to meet your new best friend.