7. Havanese
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and was bred specifically to be a companion. These sturdy little dogs weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and possess a delightfully silly, affectionate personality. They are often described as “Velcro dogs” because they stick right by their owner’s side, following them from room to room with a happy spring in their step.
Havanese dogs are quite intelligent and easily trained. They enjoy performing little tricks and are deeply motivated by praise and affection. Their exercise needs are moderate; a daily walk and some interactive play will keep them perfectly content.
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent severe tangles. Alternatively, many retirees choose to keep their Havanese in a short, manageable trim. They are generally healthy dogs, though routine veterinary checkups are necessary to monitor for common small-dog issues like luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps).
My daughter is an RN. She sees more injuries in elderly people caused by their little dogs. Evidently, seniors have more of a tendency to trip and fall over objects on the floor, resulting in broken hips, shoulders, wrists, etc. Smaller dogs are harder for them to see as they don’t always look down before walking.