Breed Group: Toy
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Life Span: 14 to 15 years
The Havanese is a bright and lively little dog who likes to think up his own games and then play them with you. It’s certainly possible to spoil a Havanese, but they’re pretty resistant to becoming tyrants and generally respond well to a little judicious indulgence.
Did You Know the Havanese Can be An Excellent Family Dog?
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba. He is descended from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana (“little white dog of Havana”); the Blanquito descended from the Bichon Tenerife, which is also now extinct.
Once nearly extinct on his home island of Cuba, this little cousin of the Bichon Frise, the Maltese and the Coton de Tulear has a popularity that has grown well beyond his fan base in Little Havana. He comes in many colors and patterns, his long coat can be silky or fluffy, and all he wants is to be with you and make you laugh. He also loves children, cats and other dogs, and is even fairly quiet for a small dog. Just don’t expect him to spend a lot of time alone: this is a dog who needs company all his life.
The Havanese’s coat is a challenge, requiring daily brushing and occasionally needing professional grooming. Havanese don’t shed much, but don’t confuse that with being non-allergenic. If you have allergies, try to spend as much time as possible with Havenese dogs before you decide to bring one home.
The Havanese can be an excellent family dog, and while care does need to be taken that these little dogs — only 10 to 15 pounds — don’t get hurt by too much roughhousing, they’re famous for loving to play with children.
The Havanese has a classically winning temperament, always willing to please and quick witted. He is easy to train, and has an aptitude for performing in obedience competitions. The breed’s history of circus tricks aids him in agility.
Havanese attach strongly to their families, as they should: their job was always to be a companion. Because they are small but not yappy, Havanese are good travel companions and appropriate for the RV lifestyle.
Other Quick Facts About the Havanese
The profuse Havanese coat is silky to touch; it also insulates against the tropical sun in Havana.
If he grows up around water, the Havanese can be a good swimmer.
