Havanese Colors: From White To Black & Everything In Between!

Miss Flossie Schinner 10 May 2025

Thinking of bringing a Havanese puppy into your life? Prepare to be captivated by a breed that's as colorful in personality as it is in coat variations, especially the striking and perennially popular black and white Havanese!

The Havanese, a breed with a delightful "go with the flow" temperament, has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity. According to the American Kennel Club, this charming dog currently holds the 24th spot among the most beloved breeds in America. This boom is due in no small part to the stunning array of colors and patterns these dogs display. While the breed boasts a very particular appearance, the color variations are what often initially draw people in, making the Havanese color a key factor for prospective owners. The traditional all-white or black and white Havanese pups remain gorgeous and classic choices, but today, the options extend far beyond these standards.

Attribute	Details
Breed	Havanese
AKC Rank	24th Most Popular
Temperament	Affectionate, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful
Coat Colors	White, Black, Brindle, Sable, Chocolate, Gold, Silver, Cream, Fawn, Red, and combinations thereof
Coat Patterns	Parti-color, Tricolor, Brindle, Sable, Points
Size	Small (typically 7-13 pounds)
Lifespan	14-16 years
Reference	American Kennel Club - Havanese

One of the most popular and easily recognized versions is the entirely white Havanese. This color was among the first seen in the breed, establishing it as a classic. Typically, the white Havanese is covered entirely in white fur. However, some white Havanese dogs have a few patches of tan or red hair around the paws or muzzle, adding a touch of uniqueness to their pristine appearance.

Then there are the black and brindle Havanese dogs, showcasing black main coats interwoven with red auburn hair. This particular coat shade was historically referred to as "Havana brown." Black brindles exhibit varying amounts of red beneath their black coat, some displaying large swathes of auburn coloration, while others feature it in a more confined area. This variation makes each dog a unique work of art.

For those drawn to contrast, the Havanese black and white combination is timeless. But the color palette doesnt stop there. The tricolor Havanese presents a captivating blend of three colors on its coat, often including black, tan, and white. However, colors like blue and silver may also appear, further enhancing the uniqueness of each dog. No two tricolor Havanese are entirely the same, solidifying their individual charm.

Coat patterns in Havanese extend beyond simple color blocks. Points, similar to those seen in breeds like the Doberman or Rottweiler, can appear, either with or without white trim. While the most common base coat color for these points is black, they are also frequently observed on sable, blue, silver, or chocolate coats. The classic black coat with tan points, devoid of any white trim, is known as the "black & tan." The variety is endless, spanning combinations like black & tan and black & silver.

The Havanese breed boasts not only a perfect go with the flow temperament, but they are truly unique in their kaleidoscopic range of colors and patterns. It's not an exaggeration to say that the colors and patterns of a Havanese puppy come in a plethora of options, making the selection process an exciting, albeit potentially overwhelming, experience.

Interestingly, many new puppy parents are unaware that a Havanese puppy's coloring can change significantly as it physically and mentally develops. Most Havanese change colors to some degree, although not all do. Havanese puppies are particularly prone to these color transformations. As they grow, their coats can evolve, sometimes dramatically. The coats also start to shed eventually, contributing to the ongoing change. While white Havanese and black Havanese typically experience the least color change, sable Havanese often undergo the most drastic transformations.

Beyond the visual appeal, the Havanese is renowned for its exceptional temperament. This breed is intelligent, affectionate, and loyal, making them an ideal pet for any family. With proper training and socialization, they can make wonderful companions for individuals new to pet ownership. They are also likely to be affectionate and loyal, further endearing them to their owners.

The spectrum of acceptable Havanese coat colors extends to the show ring, encompassing white, cream, gold, fawn, chocolate, red, silver, and black. Some Havanese are gold sable, characterized by a golden color with darker tips, while others are gold brindle, displaying a gold coat with black stripes or streaks. Many silver pups are born black, their coat gradually lightening over time. This dynamic color evolution adds to the breed's allure.

Black and white Havanese mixes are particularly popular, as they often inherit the best traits of both parent breeds. This combination can result in a harmonious blend of physical characteristics and temperamental qualities, making them highly sought-after companions. Demdaco offers a sitting small Havanese dog black and white children's plush stuffed animal, capturing the essence of this beloved color combination.

The growing awareness among pet owners regarding their furry friends' health and wellness has also positively impacted Havanese ownership. Breeders are increasingly focused on producing healthy puppies that come health checked, including their first puppy shots, completely weaned, and eating solid puppy kibble. This commitment to health ensures that new owners receive a happy, healthy pet, ready to become a cherished member of the family.

As a Havanese puppy grows, its hair usually changes colors, which is loved by Havanese enthusiasts. With such a rich tapestry of colors and patterns to choose from, there's a Havanese to capture every heart and imagination.