Feeding a Havanese properly is key to their long-term health, shiny coat, and active lifestyle. These small but lively dogs have specific nutritional needs that change as they grow, from energetic puppies to calm seniors. A structured feeding routine helps prevent overfeeding and digestive issues, which are common in toy breeds.
Whether you’re a new Havanese owner or fine-tuning your adult dog’s meal plan, understanding their feeding stages and portion sizes ensures they stay healthy and happy.
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Havanese Feeding Schedule Chart
Creating a consistent feeding schedule is crucial for maintaining your Havanese’s digestion and energy balance. Puppies generally need more frequent meals, while adults and seniors thrive on regular but smaller portions. Establishing set feeding times helps avoid overeating and builds a predictable routine your dog will love.
| Age | Average Weight (kg / lbs) | Meal Frequency | Daily Food Amount (cups) | Feeding Notes |
| 6–8 weeks (Puppy) | 0.9–1.8 kg / 2–4 lbs | 4 meals/day | ¼ – ½ cup | Start with high-quality puppy kibble softened with warm water. |
| 2–3 months | 1.8–2.7 kg / 4–6 lbs | 4 meals/day | ½ – ¾ cup | Feed small frequent meals; avoid overfeeding. |
| 4–5 months | 2.7–3.6 kg / 6–8 lbs | 3 meals/day | ¾ – 1 cup | Gradually switch to dry puppy food. |
| 6–8 months | 3.6–4.5 kg / 8–10 lbs | 3 meals/day | 1 – 1¼ cups | Maintain a consistent feeding schedule. |
| 9–12 months | 4.1–5.9 kg / 9–13 lbs | 2–3 meals/day | 1 – 1¼ cups | Transition slowly to adult dog food. |
| Adult (1–6 years) | 4.5–7.3 kg / 10–16 lbs | 2 meals/day | 1 – 1½ cups | Choose small-breed adult formula. Adjust portions for activity level. |
| Senior (7+ years) | 4.5–6.8 kg / 10–15 lbs | 2 meals/day | ¾ – 1 cup | Use senior food with joint & heart support. Reduce fat content. |
Havanese Feeding Chart by Age
Havanese dogs have different dietary requirements depending on their life stage. As they transition from puppyhood to adulthood, portion sizes, calorie intake, and meal frequency should be adjusted accordingly.
Puppy (0–3 Months)
At this tender age, your Havanese puppy is growing rapidly and needs small, frequent meals rich in protein and healthy fats.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Food Type | Notes |
| 0–4 weeks | 4–6 | Small, soft portions | Puppy formula | Gradual weaning phase |
| 5–8 weeks | 4–5 | ¼ cup each | Puppy kibble or wet food | Introduce solids slowly |
| 8–12 weeks | 4 | ¼–½ cup | Balanced puppy food | High protein intake |
Puppy (3–6 Months)
This stage is all about steady growth. Meals should be nutrient-dense but not excessive to prevent obesity.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Food Type | Notes |
| 3 months | 3–4 | ¼–½ cup | Puppy kibble | Maintain regular intervals |
| 4–6 months | 3 | ½ cup | Puppy kibble + wet mix | Provide calcium and DHA |
Adolescent (6–12 Months)
Your Havanese begins to reach near-adult size. Shift toward adult formulas gradually to support balanced nutrition.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Food Type | Notes |
| 6–9 months | 2–3 | ½–¾ cup | Adult transition food | Watch for weight changes |
| 9–12 months | 2 | ¾ cup | Adult formula | Maintain energy balance |
Adult (1–7 Years)
Adult Havanese thrive on two structured meals daily. Consistent portion control prevents weight gain.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Food Type | Notes |
| 1–5 years | 2 | ½–¾ cup | Adult dog food | Add lean protein sources |
| 5–7 years | 2 | ½ cup | Light or balanced formula | Maintain ideal weight |
Senior (7+ Years)
Seniors require fewer calories but more fiber and joint-supporting nutrients.
| Age | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Food Type | Notes |
| 7–9 years | 2 | ¼–½ cup | Senior formula | Easy-to-digest meals |
| 9+ years | 2 | ¼ cup | Low-fat food | Watch for appetite changes |
Havanese Feeding Chart by Weight
A dog’s ideal portion depends not just on age but on body weight. Keeping your Havanese within a healthy weight range prevents joint strain and obesity-related issues.
| Weight | Meals Per Day | Portion Size | Recommended Calories | Food Type | Notes |
| 4–6 lbs | 2–3 | ¼ cup | 150–200 | Small breed kibble | Monitor appetite |
| 7–9 lbs | 2 | ⅓ cup | 200–250 | Adult formula | Ideal adult range |
| 10–12 lbs | 2 | ½ cup | 250–300 | Balanced mix | Adjust for activity |
| 13–15 lbs | 2 | ½–¾ cup | 300–350 | Weight-control diet | Avoid overfeeding |
| 16+ lbs | 2 | ¾–1 cup | 350–400 | Low-fat formula | For larger builds |
How Much to Feed a Havanese Per Day (Portion Size Guide)
Determining the right daily portion for your Havanese depends on factors like metabolism, activity level, and food type. Always measure portions accurately and adjust if you notice sudden weight changes.
| Life Stage | Daily Portion | Meals Per Day | Recommended Calories | Notes |
| Puppy | ½–1 cup | 3–4 | 300–400 | High protein diet |
| Adult | ½–¾ cup | 2 | 250–350 | Maintain ideal weight |
| Senior | ¼–½ cup | 2 | 200–250 | Support digestion |
| Overweight | ¼ cup | 2 | <200 | Consult vet for plan |
| Active adult | ¾–1 cup | 2 | 350–400 | Higher calorie intake |
Havanese Feeding Frequency
Feeding frequency plays a crucial role in keeping your Havanese’s metabolism balanced and preventing issues like bloating or hypoglycemia. Smaller dogs burn energy faster, so spreading their meals throughout the day ensures a steady supply of nutrients and energy.
Consistency in timing also helps maintain healthy digestion and supports their active temperament.
How Often Should Puppies Eat?
Havanese puppies have fast metabolisms and small stomachs, so they require multiple small meals each day. Feeding 3–4 times daily keeps their blood sugar stable and supports proper growth. Avoid skipping meals, as young pups can quickly experience energy drops.
How Often Should Adult Havanese Eat?
Adult Havanese typically thrive on two well-balanced meals per day, morning and evening. This routine maintains their weight and digestive rhythm while providing consistent energy for play and exercise. For particularly active adults, a small midday snack may also be beneficial.
Best Dog Food for Havanese (Dry, Wet & Homemade Options)
Selecting the right food for your Havanese depends on their age, lifestyle, and specific dietary sensitivities. Dry kibble is ideal for maintaining dental health, while wet food appeals to picky eaters and helps with hydration. Many owners also prepare homemade meals using lean meats, brown rice, and vegetables for better control over ingredients.
Always choose food made specifically for small breeds to match their calorie and nutrient needs. For convenience, mix wet and dry food to create variety while ensuring balance
Foods to Avoid for Havanese
Despite their small size, Havanese dogs have big appetites and curious noses. However, certain foods can be dangerous or even toxic. Avoid feeding your Havanese chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and anything containing xylitol. Fatty table scraps and processed human foods can lead to pancreatitis or obesity.
Additionally, high-sodium snacks like chips or deli meats can cause dehydration and kidney strain. Stick to nutrient-rich dog food, and only use approved treats to maintain optimal health.
Treats and Snacks: How Much Is Too Much?
Treats are excellent for training and bonding, but moderation is key. For a Havanese, treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. Too many snacks can contribute to weight gain and poor eating habits.
Opt for low-calorie, natural treats like small carrot slices, plain boiled chicken, or training-specific biscuits. Always account for treat calories when determining meal portions to maintain a healthy diet balance.
Feeding Tips for Picky Eater Havanese
Havanese dogs are known for their selective eating habits. If your dog turns their nose up at mealtime, try offering a mix of dry and wet food to enhance aroma and texture. Avoid feeding table scraps, as it can encourage bad eating behavior.
Keep a consistent feeding schedule, and limit access to food outside of mealtimes. Warm up wet food slightly to make it more appealing, or add a small spoon of plain pumpkin puree or unsalted bone broth for flavor enhancement.
Signs You’re Overfeeding or Underfeeding Your Havanese
A healthy Havanese should have a visible waistline and easily felt ribs without excess fat. Overfeeding often leads to weight gain, lethargy, and digestive upset, while underfeeding may cause fatigue, dull coat, or irritability.
Watch your dog’s behavior and adjust portions gradually if you notice changes in energy levels or appetite. Regular weigh-ins and body condition checks can prevent long-term health problems.
Adjusting Diet Based on Activity Level and Health
Your Havanese’s diet should reflect their lifestyle and health status. Active dogs benefit from higher protein and calorie content, while older or less active ones require fewer calories but more fiber. Health conditions like allergies or joint issues may also require specialized diets.
Consult your vet before making major dietary changes, and consider supplementing with omega-3s, probiotics, or glucosamine if recommended. Keeping their diet flexible ensures your Havanese remains strong, agile, and happy.
Conclusion
Feeding your Havanese correctly is about more than portion control, it’s about balance, timing, and understanding your dog’s individual needs. By following a structured feeding plan, using high-quality food, and paying attention to portion sizes, you can keep your furry companion in top condition.
Whether you choose dry, wet, or homemade meals, consistency and observation are key to a long, healthy life for your Havanese.
FAQs
How many cups of food should a Havanese eat daily?
Most adult Havanese need about ½ to ¾ cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
Can I feed my Havanese homemade food every day?
Yes, but ensure it’s nutritionally balanced and approved by your vet to avoid deficiencies.
What’s the best food for Havanese puppies?
High-protein, small-breed puppy formulas with DHA for brain development are ideal.
Should I leave food out for my Havanese all day?
No, free-feeding can lead to overeating and weight gain. Stick to scheduled meals.
How often should I change my Havanese diet?
Only when necessary such as transitioning from puppy to adult food or addressing health issues. Always introduce new food gradually over 7–10 days.