My Philosophy: "If It's OK With Me, It's OK With You"
After more than 40 years of breeding, raising, and loving dogs — and a lifetime of farming, animal control work, and raising five children — I've learned that the most important thing you can give a puppy is consistency and confidence.
"If it's OK with me, it's OK with you. If it's not OK with me, it's not OK with you."
This simple phrase is the foundation of everything I teach new puppy parents. Dogs are pack animals. They look to you for leadership. When you are calm, consistent, and confident — your puppy will be too. When you are anxious, inconsistent, or unsure — your puppy will mirror that right back at you.
The first few weeks at home are critical. Your puppy is learning the rules of their new world. Be gentle, be patient, and be clear. Reward what you want to see more of. Redirect what you don't. And always, always remember — they are babies. They will make mistakes. So will you. That's OK.
I am always here for the families who adopt from me. Not just for the first week — forever. That's my promise.
— Kate Tiersma, Havanese Superstar
Understanding Fear Periods in Puppies
Between 8–11 weeks and again around 6–14 months, puppies go through fear periods. Things that never bothered them suddenly seem terrifying. Here's how to handle it with grace...
Havanese Superstar Blog
Alone Training: Teaching Your Puppy to Be Independent
Havanese are social butterflies — they LOVE being with their people. But learning to be alone is an important life skill. Start small, stay consistent, and build up gradually...
Havanese Superstar Blog
Why I Use Diatomaceous Earth for My Dogs
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is one of my favorite natural supplements. It supports gut health, helps with parasites naturally, and I've used it safely for years with all my animals...
Havanese Superstar Blog
Keeping That Gorgeous Havanese Coat Silky & Tangle-Free
The Havanese coat is one of the most beautiful in the dog world — but it does require regular care. Here are my tips for keeping it silky, healthy, and mat-free without spending hours grooming...
Havanese Superstar Blog
The First 48 Hours: What to Expect When You Bring Your Puppy Home
The first two days are the most important — and often the most overwhelming. Here's exactly what to expect, what to do, and what NOT to do when your new Havanese arrives home...
Havanese Superstar Blog
Why Two Puppies Are (Almost Always) Better Than One
I know, I know — it sounds crazy. But hear me out. Havanese are deeply social dogs. When you adopt two, something magical happens. They entertain each other, comfort each other, and honestly make your life easier...
Havanese Superstar Blog