Havanese vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

Havanese vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed ComparisonHavanese is originated from Cuba but Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier is originated from Ireland. Havanese may grow 21 cm / 8 inches shorter than Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Havanese may weigh 12 kg / 26 pounds lesser than Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Both Havanese and Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier has almost same life span. Both Havanese and Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier has almost same litter size. Havanese requires High maintenance. But Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier requires Low maintenance

History

havanese - historyThe only breed of dog that is native to Cuba is the Havanese. These little dogs are great companion animals. Sociable and happy, they are very popular in the United States with urbanites. These happy little pups are a Bichon type of dog which was developed from the “Little White Dog of Havana” or the Blanquito de la Habana which is now extinct.

The Blanquito de la Habana was itself developed from another extinct breed the Bichon Tenerife. Then the Blanquito was bred with the other Bichons and poodles in developing the Havanese. It is believed that some of the first people to settle in Cuba were from Tenerife, an island close to Cuba. In the early part of the sixteenth century, little white dogs were brought to Cuba with these settlers. This dog of Tenerife is believed to be the ancestor of all Bichon breeds.

At that time trade with Cuba was highly restricted by the Spanish and so these dogs developed without any crossing from other breeds from outside the country. They grew to be able to stand hot temperatures and they grew a very unique coat – almost like silk. Their coat is soft and light, while insulating them from the tropical environment.

At this time Cuba was the place to be for Europeans aristocrats on vacation. Unlike the British colonies, Cuba had theatres, operas and palacious. When going back to Europe, many took this little white dog with them to France, Spain and England. The Dog of Havannah was a favorite on European soil as well. Many of these dogs taken to Europe were fawn or parti instead of white. Meanwhile back in Cuba, the bourgeoisie were replacing the aristocracy who themselves would soon be replaced by the Revolution.

During the days of the bourgeoisie, the Havanese became very popular household pets. The breed has been a family pet for the last 150 years. At the same time the breed was very trendy in Europe with Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria owning several. They were by now familiar participants in Europe’s dog shows. Finally, with the Revolution, the bourgeoisie left the country in droves with their little white dogs. A genetic pool was then formed in the US. Gene pool from 11 dogs. All the Havanese in the world are descended from those 11 dogs with the exception of the dogs isolated in Cuba and the US. Today the Havanese is one of the most popular and fastest growing breeds in the world.

irish staffordshire bull terrier - historyThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier comes from Staffordshire, England, but the Irish Staffie was later developed by Irish breeders so its origin is essentially Ireland. They were developed from bulldogs and different terrier breeds.

The dog was always used for bull baiting, but when this sport died out, the Irish breeders wanted to create a taller, leaner dog suited for dog fighting. When dog fighting was banned the breed became rare again, but today it has been restored and is essentially a popular companion pet.

Description

havanese puppy - descriptionThe Havanese is a sturdy little dog, a member of the toy group. They weigh no more than 16 pounds (7.3kg) and his body is longer than it is tall. The breed has a unique topline that is not level, but it is straight. His front legs are longer than his hind legs producing the lively gait everyone is used to seeing with a Havanese. With a full muzzle that tapers to the nose, the Havanese does not seem to be short. The skull’s length is the same as the muzzle’s. The head of the Havanese is round in the back and flat in the front.

They have a deep chest, almond shaped eyes that are dark brown and their ears are about halfway down the nose. The long ears hang down the side od the face. They have a long plumed tail that is held high and upward. The standard for the breed and now the laws of the United Kingdom state that there can be no docking of the tail.

irish staffordshire bull terrier puppy - descriptionThe Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a medium sized pure-breed dog standing at roughly 43 to 48cm and weighing anything from 14 to 18kg.

He has a short, smooth coat which can be a mix of colors such as fawn, tan, black or brindle. The coat can also be bi-colored such as in fawn and white or black and white. He is a powerfully built dog with short legs which are fairly wide apart.

He has a large head and short muzzle with powerful jaws.Sometimes when he pants after a hectic bout of exercise he gets a comical, grinning look on his face. The ears are semi-erect, semi-upright and he has a long tail.

Temperament:

Your Irish Staffy is a feisty, confident dog that has been known to have a temperament which leads towards aggression. It is why he should be trained and socialized to make him more amicable and obedient. He is an intelligent and alert dog, so won't have difficulty with training.

A well trained and socialized Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier will get on well with children in the home as he is a playful, jovial dog, always ready for a game.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

havanese dog - characteristicsHavanese are highly intelligent and eager to please, and they are easily trained so long as you use only positive methods. This can be a sensitive breed, so care must be taken to not scold them harshly. Socialization from an early age is very important. Expose them calmly to a wide variety of new places and new people, always ensuring that the experiences are positive and not intimidating. Gentle, patient training will result in a wonderful companion dog. They are affectionate with people and get along with other nonaggressive pets.

Special talents

The Havanese is the consummate lap dog. Over time they have become the lovable family companion.

Adaptability

The breed is pretty adaptable being able to live as a companion animal in almost any setting. Just don’t expect your Havanese to go hiking or romp with you on 40 acres in the country.

Learning

They are intelligent, love to learn but can be a little stubborn. Train them early as they like their habits and its much harder to train an older Havanese.

irish staffordshire bull terrier dog - characteristicsThe older Irish Staffie has always been an aggressive type dog used for fighting, but today the modern breed is capable of being a splendid, entertaining, amicable pet with an even temper. He is feisty for sure, being brave, fearless, loyal and loving with his human family members.

All it requires with this dog is to have a firm, loving upbringing, some training and socialization as well as good food and plenty of love and attention. Many dogs get labelled wrongly because of the humans that rear them the wrong way. When done correctly, the Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier promises to be a wonderful, loving, loyal pet.

Health Problems

havanese puppies - health problemsA very healthy breed, the Havanese doesn’t have a lot of health issues, but they are not immune to the problems of small breed dogs. The issues they do have are:

  1. Luxating Patella – can result in arthritis or lameness
  2. Liver Disease – could be fatal
  3. Heart Disease – could be fatal
  4. Cataracts – can be discomforting by will not cause total blindness
  5. Retinal Dysplasia – this eye disease is more serious than the cataracts but is also non-progressive and is caused by a viral infection.
  6. Hip Dysplasia – causes lameness and arthritis -most small dogs are susceptible to this

irish staffordshire bull terrier puppies - health problemsThe Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier, just like with any other dog, has a good chance of living a good number of years if he is fed properly. He can live to be anything up to between 10 and 16 years.

Say what you like, good nutrition and the lifestyle you provide for your Irish Staffie will determine how long he lives. An unhappy dog that has to beg for love and attention won't do well. Your Irish Staffie can live to a ripe age but he is still at risk for certain health problems.

Mastocytoma:

These mast cell tumors are graded according to their location in the skin. Certain dogs like Boxers and bulldogs are more susceptible to mast cell tumors than other breeds, and the Irish Staffie isn't immune either. Most times the tumor develops in an older dog, though young dogs have also been known to develop the tumor. These tumors can be inactive for a while and then experience some rapid growth with some redness and fluid build up. Immediate veterinary intervention will be required.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

havanese dogs - caringFeed 3 to 4 times per day a high quality dry puppy food for toy or small dogs. Feed ¼ to ½ cup each time.

Feeding the adult

Remember these are small dogs and don’t overfeed. Feed a high quality dry food for small or toy dogs. Feed twice a day at about ½ cup each time.

Points for Good Health

The breed is generally very healthy.

Games and Exercises

This breed is not an overly active dog, but he does need some exercise. A nice walk once a day or a backyard to play in. They play inside as well as out. Don’t over exercise the Havanese. They do well in obedience and confirmation more so than agility or fly ball

Exercise:

irish staffordshire bull terrier dogs - caringThe Irish Staffie is an active dog, who is always game for anything. He will certainly need active owners who include him in all their activities. He has a lot of stamina and endurance and will want to join you on your walks, hikes and swimming. Ignoring his exercise needs can turn him into a restless, unhappy, frustrated, destructive dog.

Grooming:

Having a short, smooth coat means your Irish Staffie being a low maintenance dog. He does shed a bit so his coat will need to be brushed at least twice a week to get rid of all those loose hairs. Its always a good opportunity to check him for fleas and ticks too.

If the short coat gets too dirty, a wipe down with a damp cloth can keep the coat bright and shiny. Certainly avoid bathing him too often as this can aggravate the skin.

Check his nails and trim them if they get too long. Check his ears and teeth as these are all problem areas which can contribute to your dog becoming ill.

Diet:

Your Irish Staffie is such an energetic dog that he will need excellent food that promotes this energy. Whether you buy him the best commercially manufactured kibble, you want to also add in some home-made food such as cooked chicken, rice and vegetables as well as including some raw meat occasionally. The food you provide your Staffie with needs to be full of vitamins and minerals to avoid illness. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
Cuba
Ireland
Height Male:
23 - 27 cm
9 - 11 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Height Female:
21 - 25 cm
8 - 10 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 9
5 - 7
Size:
Toy dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Havanese Cuban Bichon Bichón Havanés Havaneser Havanezer Bichon Habanero
Irish Staffie
Colors Available:
colors all colors
Fawn, black or brindle - bi-colored, tan
Coat:
coat type soft and curly
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Friendly, Intelligent, Outgoing, Playful
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
High maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Schnauzer vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Irish Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Kerry Blue Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Lakeland Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Jagdterrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Japanese Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Old English Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Scoland Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Skye Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull and Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  17. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Blue Paul Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Indian Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Irish Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Brazilian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Welsh Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Morkie vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  27. Havanese vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Havanese vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  29. Havanese vs Chorkie - Breed Comparison
  30. Havanese vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Havanese vs Chiweenie - Breed Comparison
  32. Havanese vs Chug - Breed Comparison
  33. Havanese vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  34. Havanese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  35. Havanese vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  36. Havanese vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  37. Havanese vs English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) - Breed Comparison
  38. Havanese vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  39. Havanese vs Franzuskaya Bolonka - Breed Comparison
  40. Havanese vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  41. Havanese vs Cockachon - Breed Comparison
  42. Pekingese vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  43. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  44. Russian Toy Terrier vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  45. Phalene vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  46. Shih Tzu vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  47. Silky Terrier vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  48. Snorkie vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  49. Toy Bulldog vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  50. Toy Mi-Ki vs Havanese - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds