Training a Havanese: what works and what to expect

Havanese learn happily with praise, play and food, and they notice your mood more than your words. Harsh corrections tend to make them clingy or worried. Short sessions spread through the day, with lots of reward for the right choice, work much better than one long lesson.

The two common hurdles are housetraining and being alone. Small dogs often go on indoor surfaces without the owner noticing, so supervise closely and reward outdoor toileting generously for the first months. Build alone time in small steps from puppyhood, starting with a few minutes, and give a long-lasting chew or food puzzle every time you leave.