Best Dog Food for Havanese Dogs

Best Dog Food for Havanese Dogs

Keeping your Havanese Dog Healthy and Happy

Havanese dogs are little bundles of joy and happiness, not to mention furry balls of energy. To keep your Havanese fun and energetic, and to keep their gorgeous hair lustrous and silky, their diet is absolutely critical.

Best Raw food for Havanese – Dr. Martys Pets – Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness

It is important that whatever you are feeding to your beloved Havanese dog is high quality, rich in proteins, and filled with loads of fat to support a clean coat and provide the boundless energy needed for your Havanese dog’s daily activities.

It is also beneficial to make sure your Havanese is getting nutrients that will support its joints, as they have been known to suffer musculoskeletal problems.

Havanese dogs require special attention to their diet for complete and balanced nutrition. Many dog owners opt for fresh dog food containing wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, which promote healthy skin and digestion. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, making portion control crucial, whether feeding dry or wet food. Dry food without fillers like corn gluten meal provides essential nutrients without excess calories. For a radiant coat, fish oil, rich in omega fatty acids, can be incorporated into the Havanese’s diet, especially beneficial for puppies.

What Should I Feed My Havanese Dog?

Just like all the other dog breeds out there, Havanese canines need a properly balanced diet. This means fat, protein, and carbohydrates. Protein is key in keeping your dog’s muscles healthy and lean and is often best received through animal sources such as fish and poultry. Both of these contain the 10 amino acids that are essential to your dog’s health. 

In addition to the amino acids and proteins, it is important to feed your Havanese dog food that is loaded with healthy fats. Fat will work to give lots of energy to your dog. The highest quality of fats generally, like proteins, come from animal sources. Chicken fat and salmon oil are great for this. So are plant oils, since they come packed with omega-3 and omega-6. Carbohydrates can be gained through ingredients such as legumes, beans, whole grains, and vegetables.

How Much Should I Feed My Havanese Dog?

This is a pretty common question, and the answer varies depending on which stage of life your Havanese dog is currently in. Feeding methods change from puppy to adult to senior. In general, you want your fully grown Havanese dog to eat anywhere from 30 to 40 calories per each pound of their full body weight. For puppies, you want to feed them 40 calories per pound, while the senior dogs are closer to 30 calories per pound.

How Much Should I Feed My Havanese Dog?

Feeding your Havanese the right amount is crucial for their overall health and well-being. The correct quantity largely depends on their life stage. Let’s delve into the dietary requirements at each phase of their life.

Life Stage	Calories Per Pound	Crude Fats	Crude Proteins	Special Considerations
Puppy	40 calories	Minimum 8%	Minimum 22%	High energy needs
Adult	30-40 calories	Rich in fats	Rich in proteins	Joint health
Senior	Closer to 30 calories	Varied	Varied	Reduced intake, metabolic changes

Havanese Puppy Diet: An In-depth Look

The diet of a Havanese puppy plays an integral role in determining their overall health and development. The puppy phase for the Havanese is particularly crucial, as their growth trajectory from puppyhood to adulthood is remarkably swift compared to some other breeds. This rapid growth underscores the importance of premium-quality nutrition tailored specifically to their unique needs.

For Havanese puppies, the diet must contain, at the very least, 8% crude fats and 22% crude proteins. Such a nutrient profile ensures that their developmental process is nurtured in the healthiest manner, fostering robust skeletal growth, muscle development, and cognitive enhancement.

One distinguishing feature of the Havanese breed is its diminutive size. But don’t let their small stature deceive you; these little dogs are brimming with vitality. Their metabolism operates at a pace faster than many other breeds, translating to an intense energy demand, especially during their first year. This period of rapid growth and high energy expenditure necessitates a diet rich in calories and essential nutrients.

When selecting puppy food for your Havanese, it’s imperative to opt for a formula crafted specifically for small breeds. Such formulations are engineered keeping in mind the high metabolic rate and nutritional requirements of petite breeds. Ideally, the chosen food should explicitly mention its compatibility with the intense energy needs of a growing Havanese puppy. This ensures that your fur baby receives all the vital nutrients to flourish and step into adulthood with optimal health.

Havanese Adult Diet: Navigating Nutritional Needs

Transitioning from Puppy to Adult Diet:

The Havanese reaches adulthood remarkably quickly, maturing at around 12 months of age. This developmental milestone calls for a shift in dietary requirements. Transitioning from calorie-dense puppy food, the adult Havanese will thrive on a formula that is abundant in fats and proteins. Such a dietary composition ensures they receive the energy and nutrients essential for maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle.

Caloric Consideration:

While adult food is rich in nutrients, it usually contains fewer calories compared to puppy food. This is crucial to note as adult dogs have a slightly reduced energy requirement compared to rapidly growing puppies.

Prioritizing Joint Health:

As your Havanese matures, joint health becomes a focal point. To proactively support joint health and mobility, it’s advisable to choose foods enriched with chondroitin and glucosamine. These compounds can potentially aid in maintaining joint integrity and function.

Quality Matters:

Never compromise on the quality of food for your Havanese. Their health, vitality, and longevity are directly influenced by their diet. Investing in premium-quality dog food ensures they receive a balanced mix of essential nutrients, setting them on a path of optimal health.

Treats: A Tasty Addition

Treats are not just delightful morsels for your Havanese; they can also serve as valuable training aids and nutritional supplements.

• Nutritional Value: Opt for treats that offer added health benefits, such as dental chews that promote oral health or treats fortified with omega fatty acids for a glossy coat.
• Moderation is Key: While treats are enjoyed immensely by dogs, they should only constitute a small portion of their daily caloric intake to ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
• Natural Choices: Consider natural treat options like dehydrated meats or vegetables. These can be a healthier alternative to highly processed treats.
• Beware of Allergens: Always check the ingredients, ensuring there’s nothing your Havanese might be allergic to.

Incorporating the right treats into your Havanese’s diet can enhance their nutritional intake while providing them with delightful flavors and textures.

Havanese Senior Diet: Catering to the Golden Years

Understanding Metabolic Changes

As dogs transition into their senior years, they experience several physiological changes, much like humans. One of the most notable changes is the gradual decline in metabolism. For Havanese dogs, this typically becomes evident around the age of seven or eight. A slower metabolism means their energy requirement diminishes, which, in turn, affects their dietary needs.

Adjusting Food Intake

As your Havanese enters this senior phase, it’s imperative to revisit and recalibrate their dietary regimen.

• Portion Control: Begin by monitoring and possibly reducing their food intake. Overfeeding an older dog with a decreased metabolism can lead to weight gain and associated health issues.
• Food Labels: Always refer to the feeding guidelines provided on your dog food packaging. These recommendations often vary based on the dog’s weight and age, offering a valuable reference point.

Transition to Senior Formulas

After monitoring and adjusting their food intake for about a year, it might be beneficial to switch to a formula specifically crafted for senior dogs. These formulations consider the reduced caloric needs and often have ingredients that support joint health, heart health, and overall well-being.

• Nutrient-Rich Foods: Senior dog foods usually have elevated levels of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients. These can aid in combatting age-related issues and in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Incorporating Supplements

As your Havanese matures, you might want to consider adding supplements to their diet to address specific age-related concerns.

• Joint Support: Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM can potentially support joint health and mobility.
• Omega Fatty Acids: These can help maintain a shiny coat, support brain health, and reduce inflammation.
• Digestive Aids: Probiotics and digestive enzymes can help older dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive issues.
• Consultation: Before introducing any supplements, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide recommendations tailored to your Havanese’s specific needs.

Caring for a senior Havanese requires a mix of vigilance, adaptability, and a lot of love. By understanding their evolving nutritional needs, you can ensure they thrive during their golden years.

The Best Havanese Puppy Food

We highly recommend feeding your puppy the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Small Puppy Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe. This is the number one food for any Havanese puppy. The entire function of this food is to give your small growing friend heaps of health and vitality, helping them grow into a strong adult dog. The food comes made with garden vegetables, fruit, real meat, whole grains, and is packed with omega-3, omega-6, antioxidants, fatty acids, and a lot of other healthy supplements.

This kibble is the exact right size for the tiny puppy mouth of a Havanese. The formula from Blue Buffalo enforces healthy development of the eyes and the brain while building a strong immune system, a shiny coat of hair, and tough sharp teeth. 

The Best Havanese Dog Food

We highly recommend Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Small Breed Freeze-Dried Turkey Recipe for your Havanese dog. This food is going to make sure your beloved Havanese is getting all the important nutrients in their daily diet. Inside each bag is a mixture of kibble and freeze-dried pieces of turkey. The kibble ensures your dog is keeping their teeth sharp and clean, while the turkey gives them their daily filling of raw food. In fact, this food is made using chicken and turkey that is 100% real. The recipe has an amazing daily content of 15% fat and 38% protein. There are even fresh vegetables and fruit supplemented inside of the food, boosting your dog’s intake of minerals.

This food is quite expensive, but can you really put a price tag on the health of your dog? This feed even gives your Havanese a source of probiotics for the health of their guts!

Best Dog Food for a Havanese FAQ

What is the Best Dog For For Havanese?

Choosing the best dog food for a Havanese requires careful consideration of their unique needs. Given their small size and active nature, Havanese dogs benefit from a balanced diet that supports their metabolism and overall health.

When considering dog food for Havanese, the best dog food brands offer a mix of high-quality ingredients tailored to their requirements. Many dog food brands have formulas specifically designed for small breeds, making them a good fit for Havanese puppies and adult dogs alike.

Dry dog food is a popular choice for many Havanese owners. The best dry dog food options often include protein sources like chicken meal, which provides essential amino acids for muscle development. Carbohydrates like brown rice serve as a digestible energy source, promoting sustained activity and vitality.

While dry dog food is convenient and provides a crunch that can help with dental health, some Havanese dogs might prefer or benefit from wet dog food. Wet dog food can be more palatable and is an excellent option for adult dogs with dental issues or those who need additional hydration.

Raw food diets are also gaining popularity, with proponents arguing that it offers a more natural and nutrient-rich diet. However, if considering raw food for Havanese, it’s essential to ensure it’s balanced and safe to prevent nutritional deficiencies and bacterial contamination.

Ingredients that support a healthy immune system, such as antioxidants and omega fatty acids, are crucial. They help maintain the health of Havanese dogs, ensuring a vibrant coat, good skin health, and a robust defense against illnesses.

In conclusion, the best dog food for Havanese will cater to their size, life stage, and individual health needs. Whether you opt for dry dog food, wet dog food, or a raw food diet, always ensure it offers a balanced diet that promotes a healthy immune system and overall well-being. Always consult with a veterinarian when choosing Havanese dog food to ensure it meets the specific needs of your furry friend.

What is the Difference Between Raw Food and Kibble?

Raw dog food and kibble represent two distinctly different dietary approaches for dogs. Here’s a comparison that outlines the differences and similarities between the two:

Raw Dog Food

Definition:
Raw dog food is based on the principle of feeding dogs a diet that closely resembles what they might eat in the wild. It typically includes raw meat, bones, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally dairy and grains.

Pros:

1. Natural Diet: Advocates believe it’s a more natural and biologically appropriate diet for dogs.
2. Fewer Preservatives: Raw diets often have fewer artificial additives and preservatives.
3. Dental Health: Chewing raw bones can help with dental hygiene by reducing tartar buildup.
4. Shiny Coat & Healthy Skin: Many pet owners report improved coat quality and healthier skin.

Cons:

1. Bacterial Contamination: Raw meat can be a source of pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli.
2. Balanced Nutrition: Achieving a balanced diet can be challenging without proper knowledge.
3. Cost: Raw diets can be more expensive than commercial kibble.
4. Storage & Preparation: It requires more effort in terms of storage (refrigeration/freezing) and preparation.

Kibble

Definition:
Kibble refers to commercially prepared dry dog food, which is typically processed and cooked to create bite-sized pellets.

Pros:

1. Convenience: Kibble is easy to store, serve, and requires no preparation.
2. Long Shelf Life: Due to its low moisture content and added preservatives, it can be stored for extended periods.
3. Balanced Diet: Reputable brands ensure that their kibble meets all nutritional requirements for dogs.
4. Cost-Effective: Typically, kibble is more economical than a raw diet.

Cons:

1. Processing: The cooking process can degrade some nutrients, necessitating synthetic supplementation.
2. Preservatives & Additives: Some brands might include artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
3. Grain & Filler Content: Cheaper kibbles might have a high grain or filler content which isn’t ideal for all dogs.
4. Dental Health: Some believe that kibble can contribute to dental problems, though specialized dental kibbles exist to counter this.

Similarities:

1. Purpose: Both diets aim to provide dogs with essential nutrients for growth and maintenance.
2. Variability: Just as there are high-quality and low-quality kibbles, there are also well-balanced and poorly-balanced raw diets.
3. Controversies: Both diets have their supporters and critics, with various studies and anecdotal evidence backing different claims.

The best diet for a dog often depends on individual dog needs, owner preferences, and logistical considerations. Always consult with a veterinarian when making significant changes to a pet’s diet.

What Can Havanese Dogs NOT Eat?

Like all dogs, Havanese dogs have specific dietary restrictions. Feeding them certain foods can be harmful or even fatal. Here’s a list of items that Havanese dogs, and dogs in general, should avoid:

1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to poisoning.
2. Grapes & Raisins: The exact cause is unknown, but these can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
3. Onions & Garlic: These can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage.
4. Xylitol: An artificial sweetener found in many products, including gum, candy, and baked goods. It can cause insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
5. Alcohol: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, and even death.
6. Caffeine (Coffee & Tea): Can lead to restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and other symptoms. High amounts can be fatal.
7. Bones: Small bones or bone fragments can cause choking or obstruct the digestive system.
8. Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia.
9. Avocado: The persin in avocado can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion.
10. Fruits with pits (like cherries and peaches): The pits can be a choking hazard, and they contain cyanide which is poisonous to dogs.
11. Raw Yeast Dough: Can expand in the stomach or intestines, causing blockage or even alcohol poisoning from the fermenting yeast.
12. Salt: In large amounts, it can lead to increased thirst, urination, and sodium ion poisoning.
13. Milk and Dairy Products: Some dogs lack lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, leading to diarrhea or other digestive upsets.
14. Fatty Foods: High-fat foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs.

Remember, always be cautious about what you feed your Havanese or any dog. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian about appropriate foods and snacks.

Do Havanese Dogs Have Sensitive Stomaches?

Havanese dogs, like many small breeds, can sometimes exhibit signs of a sensitive stomach. However, not every Havanese will have digestive issues, and the breed is not universally recognized as having more sensitive stomachs than other breeds. But individual dogs, regardless of breed, can certainly have food sensitivities or digestive issues.

If you suspect your Havanese has a sensitive stomach, here are some signs to watch for:

1. Vomiting: Occasional vomiting might be normal for dogs, but frequent or sudden onset of vomiting can indicate sensitivity or a more serious condition.
2. Diarrhea: Loose or inconsistent stool can be a sign of a sensitive stomach or other digestive problems.
3. Gas: Excessive flatulence can sometimes indicate that a dog isn’t digesting their food properly.
4. Frequent Belly Growling: Audible rumbling from the dog’s stomach.
5. Lack of Appetite: Hesitation to eat or skipping meals.
6. Grass Eating: While many dogs eat grass, excessive grass eating can sometimes indicate stomach upset.

If you recognize these symptoms in your Havanese:

1. Dietary Review: Review what you’re feeding them. Cheap dog foods or those with fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives can sometimes cause stomach issues. Consider switching to a high-quality, easily digestible dog food.
2. Try Limited Ingredient Diets: These are designed for dogs with sensitivities and can help pinpoint specific food allergies.
3. Consult a Veterinarian: Always consult with your vet if you believe your dog is showing signs of a sensitive stomach. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend specific diets or treatments.

Not every Havanese will have a sensitive stomach, individual dogs within any breed can experience food sensitivities or digestive challenges. It’s always essential to monitor your dog’s health and consult with a vet about any concerns.

What Should a Havanese Puppy Eat?

Havanese puppies, like all young dogs, have specific nutritional needs to support their rapid growth and development. During this critical stage of life, they require a diet that’s richer in certain nutrients than what’s typically provided in adult dog food.

For the Havanese, a breed known for its vivacity even in puppyhood, an energy-rich diet is essential. This should ideally comprise high-quality protein sources to aid in muscle development. Proteins such as chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish serve as the foundation for most premium puppy foods and are essential for the growth and maintenance of body tissues.

In addition to proteins, fats play a significant role in a puppy’s diet. Healthy fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, not only supply energy but also aid in brain development and keep the skin and coat healthy. Since Havanese puppies have a fast metabolism, these fats provide the concentrated energy they need.

Carbohydrates, when derived from wholesome sources like brown rice, sweet potatoes, or barley, offer sustained energy and essential dietary fiber. Alongside these macronutrients, it’s crucial for Havanese puppies to consume food fortified with vitamins and minerals to support bone growth, immune function, and overall health.

Lastly, given the Havanese’s propensity for certain genetic ailments and their long, silky coat, puppy diets enriched with joint-supporting supplements and coat-nourishing nutrients can be beneficial.

When choosing food for Havanese puppies, it’s crucial to select a formula designed specifically for puppies, and preferably, for small breeds. These formulations consider the breed’s unique growth patterns and energy needs. Always consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations tailored to your puppy’s individual needs and to ensure they’re receiving a balanced and appropriate diet.

How Important in Fiber in a Dogs Diet?

See our review on high fiber dog food HERE

Fiber in dog food plays a significant role in a dog’s diet, even though it’s not considered an essential nutrient in the way that proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are. Fiber is derived primarily from plant materials, and while dogs have evolved as carnivorous animals, they have also adapted over time to derive benefits from certain plant-based foods. Here’s why fiber is valuable in a dog’s diet:

1. Digestive Health: One of the most recognized benefits of fiber is its ability to promote regular bowel movements. Insoluble fiber, which doesn’t break down in the intestines, adds bulk to the stool and can aid in preventing constipation. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, absorbs water and can help manage diarrhea by forming a gel-like substance in the intestines, slowing down transit time.
2. Weight Management: Fiber has fewer calories than proteins or fats, and it adds volume to the diet. This can make a dog feel full without adding unnecessary calories, making high-fiber foods useful for weight management in overweight dogs.
3. Stabilizing Blood Sugar: Soluble fiber can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar. This can be especially beneficial for diabetic dogs.
4. Colon Health: Fiber supports a healthy colon by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing the chances of certain diseases like colon cancer.
5. Anal Gland Health: Adequate fiber can help prevent anal gland issues in dogs. A diet with the right amount of fiber ensures the dog’s stools are firm, which can help in naturally expressing the anal glands during defecation.
6. Reduction in Fat and Glucose Absorption: Certain fibers, like those found in oats and legumes, can bind to fat and sugar, reducing their absorption and aiding overall metabolism.

While fiber offers several benefits, it’s also essential to ensure it’s provided in the right amounts and sources. Too much fiber can lead to reduced nutrient absorption and might cause digestive issues like excessive gas. The type of fiber (soluble vs. insoluble) and its source (like beet pulp, flaxseed, or bran) can also influence its effects on a dog’s health.

When considering the fiber content in your dog’s diet, it’s essential to think about their individual needs. A dog with specific health issues, such as diabetes or obesity, might have different fiber requirements than a young, healthy, active dog. As always, consulting with a veterinarian can provide guidance on the optimal fiber intake for a dog’s specific needs.