Havanese pup

I am getting ready to purchase a Havanese. I have researched breeders and finally chose one. She has a 7 month old and 12 week old male Havanese.

Would we be better off getting the 12 wk. pup? Will he be easier to train?

Any input on this decision would be great!

Thanks,
Stacy




Hi Stacey
That decision depends on a lot of factors really, including your schedule and personal preferences.

If you're going to be leaving this puppy for several hours during the day while you work, an older puppy who has bowel/bladder control (assuming he's been crate-trained or received some housebreaking) would be easier in that respect. However, a 12 week old pup does have basic control of these functions, but can't really be crated or left alone for more than 3 hours or so without a break.

Depending on the vaccination schedule of the breeder, you may save some costs on shots with the older pup. If he's had some basic puppy training and socialization that's an added bonus.

However, if the 7 month old pup has simply spent his time with other dogs, and not had any housebreaking, training or socialization, he may be more difficult to train than the younger one as he's missed out on learning some important skills early on. It's not that he can't or won't learn them now, it just may take longer. It also depends on personality too, some pups learn faster and adjust quicker than others.

The 12 week old pup may cost more in health costs, require more time and effort on your part to train, housebreak and socialize, but he should learn quickly. Although not a tiny puppy anymore, this one will still have some of those cute puppy characteristics that some people (me included) love, but on the other hand an older pup can be a whole lot easier.

Usually there isn't an issue bonding with an older pup/dog, as long as he's spent lots of time with people in general.

I'm sorry I can't be more specific for you, but it's such a personal decision and only you really know what you want and desire from this pup, and what you can handle.

As you've taken the time to do your research and choose a good breeder, I really don't thing you can go wrong with either pup. Just be sure to think it all through and don't rush into a decision.

best of luck with whichever one you choose.