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How Much Do Havanese Dogs Smell? Vet-Reviewed Health & Safety Tips

Nicole Cosgrove
By Nicole Cosgrove · Reviewed & fact-checked by Dr. Maja PlatisaVet Approved
Dr. Maja Platisa
Reviewed & Fact-Checked byDr. Maja PlatisaDVM MRCVS (Veterinarian)
Maja joined our team in March 2023 as one of our in-house veterinarians. She is passionate about animals and their health and loves to help the readers with any issues or questions they have regarding their four-legged friends and other animal companions. Her passion is small animal medicine and emergency work, while she also has a great interest in animal welfare.View authorThe information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more
Updated on July 21, 2026
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Havanese dogs are cute, affectionate, and playful dogs that make great pets for families. However, if you’re considering getting a Havanese dog, you might be wondering how much they smell. The short answer is that Havanese dogs are known for having relatively low body odor compared to many other breeds.

While all dogs have a certain odor, some breeds are more prone to smelling than others. In this post, we’ll explore how much Havanese dogs smell and share some tips for keeping your pet healthy, safe, and happy.

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How Much Do Havanese Dogs Smell?

Havanese dogs are generally not known for having a strong odor. However, like all dogs, they can develop a smell if their coat is not properly maintained. Regular grooming and bathing can help to keep your Havanese smelling fresh and clean.

It’s also important to keep your Havanese’s ears clean and dry, as ear infections can cause a foul odor. Additionally, be sure to clean up after your pup when they have accidents in the house, as this can also cause odors over time.

Image By: Peter Mayer 67, Shutterstock

How Often Should a Havanese Be Bathed?

The frequency of bathing your Havanese will depend largely on how much they come into contact with dirt, mud, and other debris. In general, a Havanese can be bathed every 6 to 8 weeks. Frequent bathing can strip natural oils and cause skin dryness in some dogs.

To keep your pup smelling fresh in between baths, you can use pet wipes to clean off any excess dirt or debris. This will help to minimize the smell and keep your Havanese happy and healthy.

Our Favorite Products

Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent. 

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What Causes Dog Odor?

Before we dive into how much Havanese dogs smell, it’s important to understand what causes dog odor. Dogs have naturally occurring oils on their skin, which help to keep their coats healthy and shiny.

These oils can mix with bacteria and cause an unpleasant odor. Additionally, dogs can develop skin infections or other medical conditions that can cause them to smell.

Image By: R. L. Coleman, Shutterstock

Tips for Keeping Your Havanese Healthy, Safe, and Happy

  • Grooming: Havanese dogs have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking and smelling great. Brush your Havanese’s coat regularly to prevent tangles and mats. Consider taking your Havanese to a professional groomer every few months for a trim.
  • Bathing: Havanese dogs can be bathed every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on their level of activity and how dirty they get. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their skin. You also want to be sure to thoroughly rinse your Havanese well after bathing to prevent skin irritation.
  • Dental Care: Havanese dogs are prone to dental problems, so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly. You can use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
  • Exercise: Havanese dogs are active dogs that require daily exercise. Take your Havanese for daily walks or playtime in the backyard to keep them happy and healthy.
  • Nutrition: Feed your Havanese a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid table scraps and human food, as these can cause digestive upset and lead to obesity. Ask a veterinarian about the most appropriate food choice for your Havanese and which foods are safe for them.

As unique as Havanese are, they still just need good old care and attention. But with that comes a fresh-smelling pup with minimal odor.

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Final Thoughts

If the typical dog smell is keeping you away from getting a Havanese, don’t worry! Havanese dogs are known for their low body odor. That said, all dogs will have some level of odor to them. So, bear that in mind when choosing your pet!

The good news is that with regular grooming, bathing, and ear cleaning, you can keep your Havanese smelling clean and fresh.


Featured Image Credit: michaelheim, Shutterstock

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Nicole Cosgrove
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Nicole Cosgrove

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