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Compare Italian Greyhound and Havanese side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly
Yes
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
Yes
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span
12–15 years
12–15 years
Weight
3.6–5.4 kg
4.5–8.1 kg
Height
32–38 cm
23–30 cm
Origin
Italy
Cuba
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Havanese and the Italian Greyhound are both small dog breeds that share similar lifespans, ranging from 12 to 15 years. The Havanese, originating from Cuba, weighs between 4.5 to 8.1 kg and stands 23 to 30 cm tall, while the Italian Greyhound, hailing from Italy, is slightly lighter at 3.6 to 5.4 kg and taller at 32 to 38 cm. Both breeds are sociable and good with children, making them suitable for families and first-time owners. However, they differ in energy levels and exercise needs, with the Havanese requiring moderate exercise and the Italian Greyhound needing more. Grooming difficulty is also a consideration, as the Havanese has a higher grooming difficulty compared to the Italian Greyhound. Understanding these differences can help potential owners choose the breed that best fits their lifestyle.

Italian Greyhound — Advantages

Good with kids
Sociable and friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Apartment-friendly
Lower grooming difficulty
Higher energy level for active owners

Disadvantages

Higher exercise needs
Can stay alone longer, but may still experience separation anxiety
Less trainable compared to Havanese

Havanese — Advantages

Good with kids
Sociable and friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Apartment-friendly
Moderate exercise needs

Disadvantages

Can be prone to separation anxiety
Higher grooming difficulty
Moderate energy level may not suit active families

Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for families with children?

Both breeds are good with kids, making either a suitable choice for families.

How much exercise do these breeds need?

The Havanese requires moderate exercise, while the Italian Greyhound needs more active playtime.

Are they suitable for first-time dog owners?

Yes, both breeds are considered good for first-time owners.

What is the grooming requirement for each breed?

The Havanese has a higher grooming difficulty compared to the Italian Greyhound, which is easier to groom.

Can they be left alone for long periods?

The Havanese prefers not to be left alone for long, while the Italian Greyhound can tolerate it slightly better.

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