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The only native breed of Cuba, the Havanese is a happy,outgoing dog with a friendly disposition. Originally, this sturdy toy breed was a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy. Later, his role evolved into that of a family companion, watchdog, child’s playmate, and poultry herder. With his intelligence, trainability and affectionate, nonaggressive temperament, the Havanese is an ideal family dog. The breed’s hypoallergenic coat does not shed but requires regular grooming.
DID YOU KNOW? The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba.
ALSO KNOWN AS: Havanese Cuban Bichon, Youcef Sorry, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer, Bichon Habanero
| Lifespan: | 13-15 years |
| Weight: | 3-6kg |
| Height: | 23-28cm tall |
| Colours: | Any colour or combination of colours is accepted, except merles |
| Size: | Small |
| UK Kennel Club Groups: | Toy |
| Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
| Exercise needs: | 3/5 |
| Easy to train: | 5/5 |
| Tolerates being alone: | 1/5 |
| Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
| Energy level: | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs: | 2/5 |
| Shedding: | 2/5 |
Country of Origin: Cuba
The Havanese is a member of the Bichon family, which includes the Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Coton De Tulear, Lowchen and Maltese.
Their ancestors from the Mediterranean area accompanied traders across the globe and were sold and gifted to those who valued small, luxuriously coated, companion dogs as a symbol of wealth and status. Such was true of the Havanese who was very popular in Cuba with high-status families, right up until Castro’s Communist regime in 1959 when such trappings of wealth of any kind fell out of favour.
Saved by the efforts of Cuban refugees living in the US, American breeders founded the Havanese Club of America to protect the future of the breed.
Like many small breeds, the Havenese can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas). As with many breeds there are some hereditary eye problems that can arise and so breeding dogs should be regularly eye tested.
The Havanese will need about half an hour of dog exercise daily, and whilst that can be provided on occasion with games and training indoors and in the garden, a variety of interesting daily walks will satisfy the mind as well as the body. A companion breed, the Havanese will enjoy spending time with their owner no matter what they are doing, or where they are going.
As long as you have space to groom a Havanese, and a garden to play and train in safely, they do not need a huge or expansive home. Access to a variety of interesting walks will make keeping a Havanese happy and fulfilled relatively easy. Suitable for all locations.
Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide.
The Havanese coat is soft and silky in texture. Wavy or with a light curl, the topcoat is profuse, with an undercoat beneath. Daily brushing is needed to keep the coat tangle-free.
This is a breed who will need regular dog bathing and full brush-outs so get them used to spending time on a grooming table and in the bath from puppyhood. Professional grooming may be needed from time to time but this breed’s coat needs such regular attention that it won’t be practical for a professional to do all of the work. Check paws and ears daily for grass seeds and other foreign bodies.
You can find out more about dog grooming and daily care with our article.
The Havanese is small, but mighty – perfectly capable of high levels of dog training and taking part in a variety of dog sports and competitions! Exercise their minds as well as their brains for a happy, satisfied Havanese. They will do well in mini agility, trick training competitions, heelwork to music, anything you can think of really. This is a lapdog with ambition and ability to do much much more. This, however, is breed that does not like to be left alone.
The Havanese is an excellent family dog – as long as their appealing looks do not lead to them being thought of as a ‘toy’ or plaything. Also ensure that you have the time to attend to their exercise, training and grooming needs alongside family commitments. Older children and teenagers may enjoy taking part in walking and training the Havanese and their cheerful nature makes them an excellent friend.
While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.
