Havanese Dog Breed Information Puppies and Breeders Australia

The Havanese breed gets its name from Havana, the capital of Cuba, where these dogs were once very popular (although they are now quite rare in that country). It is a rather strong and sturdy small dog, 20-28 cms (8-11 inches) in height, approximately 3-6 kgs in weight, with silky, long fur and a lively, happy and playful temperament.

Appearance
Coat:

• Silky, and typically has a slight wave, although smooth and curly haired varieties are also found. If the dog is to be shown, a wavy coat is preferred.
• May come in a range of solid colours, which includes chocuolate, white, cream, gold, silver, blue or black, or two- or three-colour mixtures.

Other markings and features:

• Lips, nose and eye-rims are dark coloured, usually brown to black.
• Ears are of medium length, hang down and are covered in fur.
• When standing still, the tail arcs across the dog’s back.
• The top line of the dog rises slightly towards the rear adding to the appearance of being slightly longer than tall.
• Legs are strong and sturdy, and the dog has a lively, spritely and agile running style.

Nature and temperament:

• Curious, sociable, playful and companionable; enjoys human company.
• Enjoys playing with children and may act the “show-off” at times to attract attention.
• Intelligent and easy to train and may enjoy doing tricks.
• Does not respond well to loud disciplinary instructions, prefers an owner who uses a calm and naturally authoritative approach.

Origin and Background of the Havanese:

• Developed from the now-extinct “Mediterranean Bichon Tenerife” which originated in the coastal areas of Spain and Italy and was subsequently exported to Cuba.
• Belongs to the “Bichon” family of dogs, the name of which refers to a bearded appearance, from the word “barbichon” meaning “little beard”.

Other breeds involved in the development of the Havanese include the Poodle, the Maltese and the “Bichon Frise” (fleecy dog) - an excellent description of this breed.

How to care for your Havanese dog

Grooming:

This breed has a relatively low-shedding coat and therefore is not a high maintenance dog. However it does require - and will benefit from - regular grooming as follows:

• Regular brushing of the dead hair which sheds from the undercoat. This will help prevent matting and knots.
• Skin. Needs to be kept in good condition by regular deep brushing (as above).
• Teeth. Should be cleaned weekly.
• Ears should also be checked and cleaned to prevent infection.

Other care/needs

• Daily exercise is required, including giving walks as often as possible. The breed also benefits from regular time spent playing in a yard.
• May need protection against the winter weather, as the coat acts more as insulation from heat rather than culd.

Habitat:
The Havanese is generally happy and active indoors and so may well be suitable for people who live in a flat. However regular outdoor exercise is still required as stated above.

Requirements for ‘showing’ a Havanese:

• Fur should not be trimmed, except on the feet, to give them a “round” appearance.
• Coat should be long and silky with no coarseness. Short-haired varieties are not suitable
• General appearance - natural and tousled, without excess fussiness or decoration, or a pampered look.
• Ideal size 23-27cms (9-10.5 inches) in height.

General health and life expectancy - what to expect:

Life expectancy is about 15 years, especially if the dog has been well cared for. Comes from a limited gene pool and may develop inherent disorders similar to those of other small dogs who factored in his development. These include hip dysplasia; “poodle eye” - a staining around the eyes encountered by small breeds - dislocated knee caps; dry skin and possible deafness.

In summary:
A Havanese dog can make a delightful, fun and playful family pet, particularly with good care and training they make excellent and intelligent companions.