How to Adopt a Havapoo in Virginia

The havapoo is an endearing mix between the Havanese dog and the poodle. While their temperament is a little more unpredictable than a purebred dog’s, you can certainly expect a lovable bundle of fluff who is joyful, affectionate, and intelligent. Their low-shedding coat is also considered hypoallergenic, meaning they can make a good fit for those prone to fur allergies, too.

The havapoo’s traits can make it particularly well-suited to life in Virginia. The state, with its “goldilocks-like” climate — i.e., not too hot and not too cool — is perfect for the havapoo, who often struggles to handle extreme temperatures due to their small physique. More and more parks, facilities, and restaurants throughout Virginia are also choosing to accommodate four-footers.

Still, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind if you’re hoping to adopt a havapoo in Virginia. Below, we’ll guide you on how to adopt a havapoo in Virginia. We’ll also touch on this mix’s common characteristics to help you determine if they’re truly the right breed for you and your family.

Havapoo Adoption in Virginia

The havapoo is a fairly new designer breed and is relatively uncommon in Virginia compared to other poodle mixes like the cavapoo. When they do pop up in shelters and rescues, their adorable looks mean they’re also adopted quickly. As a result, they can be tricky to find for adoption.

Still, be patient as the wait is worth it! You’ll be making a difference to the life of a havapoo in need, and they’ll show their gratitude by showering you with unconditional love for years to come.

A good way to find havapoos for adoption is to visit local shelters and rescues nearby and leave your contact details with the staff. You can ask them to get in touch if any havapoo mixes become available. You can also use third-party dog adoption search engines that allow you to filter through multiple listings and apply convenient filters.

Once you’ve found a possible match, you will usually need to complete a rehoming application form. The exact contents of the form can vary depending on the rescue agency, though it usually involves answering questions relating to your home, lifestyle, and preferences.

The staff will use your answers to assess your compatibility — so answer carefully and truthfully!

If your application is approved, the rescue agency will be in contact to inform you of the next steps. Most rescue agencies will arrange for you to come and visit the havapoo in person, giving you a chance to learn more about them and bond with them.

Finally, if everyone is happy, you’re like two peas (or we should say paws!) in a pod, you can look to finalize the adoption. The rescue agency will provide you with the necessary paperwork, and you’ll pay them the agreed adoption fee. You’ll then liaise with staff to arrange a time and date for you to collect your new havapoo companion.

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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Havapoo in Virginia? The cost of adopting a havapoo in Virginia is generally around $100 to $350, depending on the rescue agency and the dog’s age, health, and background, and whether they’ve undergone any training before arriving at the rescue. Havapoo puppies tend to go for higher, potentially even as high as $650. However, this pales in comparison to purchasing a havapoo from a breeder in Virginia, where you can expect to pay at least $2,000. Keep in mind that the rescue’s adoption fee also usually covers initial veterinary care, like vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering.

How Should I Train a Havapoo? The havapoo is a mix of two intelligent, people-pleasing breeds, so it should come as no surprise that they’ll quickly master any commands you teach them. As is the case for most dogs, they’ll respond best to short, engaging sessions, a consistent routine, and gentle, reward-based techniques. Avoid using harsh corrections or punishments, as these will only serve to make your havapoo anxious, fearful, or withdrawn. If you’re struggling to manage your pup’s training, Dog Academy offers several online courses that can help, with options covering the basics like loose leash walking to advanced commands. Make sure to prioritize loose leash walking, as many local jurisdictions in Virginia have opted to enforce leash laws in the interest of public safety. Good leash manners will also help your havapoo navigate busy sidewalks in cities like Richmond. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Havapoo in Virginia for You

Havapoos are clever dogs with a strong desire to please their families, making them a great fit for first-time owners in Virginia. They also don’t shed much and may be a good fit for people prone to fur allergies (of course, be mindful that no dog is entirely hypoallergenic).

While havapoos can be great companions for many individuals in Virginia, it’s important to remember that every mixed dog will be unique in their own way. As you browse through adoptable havapoos, try to learn all you can about each one and visit them as many times as possible. While this does take time, taking these steps will make it easier to gauge which havapoo is the best fit for you and your family.