One of the most attractive characteristics of the Havanese dog breed is the wavy, flowing coat. Unlike many other breeds, Havanese coats are silky to the touch. In fact, a wiry coat on a Havanese would make the dog disqualified from showing. But many Havanese are pets and not show specimens. Their coats can become matted and ugly if not groomed regularly and given Havanese cuts to the coat to make lie easier for both dog and owner.

One of the things Havanese owners must know is basic Havanese grooming. You also should know about the best Havanese cuts for your dog. Just like with people, just because we can grow longhair doesn't mean we HAVE to. Often, it is far more comfortable and convenient to get it cut. The same is true for Havanese cuts. Havanese don't like to be dirty, and a dirty dog will be very unhappy and stressed.

The Puppy Trim Havanese cut is very much like a shorter version of the long, full show coat. The tail and the part down the spine is left alone, but everything else is fair game. The goal is to make the adult Havanese look like a larger version of a Havanese puppy. This is the best Havanese cut for the pet owner to try at home. You need to be sure your dog will be obedient during regular brushing and bathing before you attempt to try Havanese cuts.

Get all of the brushes, towels, conditioners and anything else you need for the bathroom, kitchen or where your dog's personal salon will be BEFORE you start bathing the dog. This will cut down on time and stress. Use lukewarm water - not too hot and not icy cold! Shampoo well, towel dry and comb smooth with a slicker brush to get the outer hairs and a pin brush to get the undercoat. A flea comb is good to have to check on any tiny passengers - and very small tangles.

Another Havanese haircut tip is to not debate too much about what to cut and how much - just let your instinct take care of you. It's sort of like Zen and the art of Havanese grooming! You can clean around your dog's eye and ears with soft cotton balls or special cleaning pads for a final touch. Use the conditioning spray, especially if the weather is humid.

Be sure to talk to your dog and constantly tell the Havanese how beautiful and well mannered they are. If your dog enjoys the daily brushing sessions, then they will enjoy the fuss of a Havanese cut, even though they might hate to be bathed. You can make the process happier for them by giving them a treat given at no other time. Also, try to be patient with a nervous dog just as you would with a nervous child. Eventually, Havanese grooming time will be associated with happy time in the mind of the dog.