GROUP 1 - TOYS

History

The purebred Havanese is a member of the Bichon family, which includes the Bichon Frise, Maltese and Lowchen.

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, developed from the now extinct Blanquito de la Habana. The Blanquito descended from the also now extinct Bichon Tenerife. It is believed that the Blanquito was eventually cross-bred with other Bichon types, including the Poodle, to create what is now known as the Havanese. Sometimes referred to as "Havana Silk Dogs", this was originally another name for the Blanquito de la Habana.

The breed comes from the Western Mediterranean region and has developed along the Spanish and Italian coastal region. These dogs were imported early in Cuba by ocean navigating Italian captains. Erroneously, the most frequent brown colour of these dogs (tobacco) gave birth to the legend which would mean it to be a breed originating from Havana, capital of Cuba. The political events, however, have led to the total disappearance of the old blood lines of the Havanese in Cuba; apparently a few dogs would be successfully smuggled out from Cuba; their descendents have survived in the U.S.A. (1)

Characteristics

One first notices the breed’s animated face with dancing eyes and an expression filled with mischief. This look is almost always accompanied by an endearing head tip, the head being cocked to one side. The Havanese often do this and it starts when it is a young puppy.

Their small but sturdy bodies, adaptable nature and social skills make Havanese an ideal city dog, but they are content to be anywhere that they can command the attention of admirers young and old alike. Havanese are smart and trainable extroverts with the comic instincts of a born clown, are natural trick dogs. Havanese are also excellent watchdogs and take the job seriously, but will usually keep the barking to a minimum. (2)

The breed is relatively quiet, but it can also be active both indoors and out. Even though the Havanese is small, it is not meant to be a tiny, fragile dog. It may be small in stature but it is muscular and lively with great stamina. The Havanese is an excellent jumper and many succeed at Agility and other dog sports. While the breed excels in many pursuits, it is first and foremost a companion dog.

Temperament

A happy temperament and energetic outlook on life makes the Havanese an entertaining companion. The Havanese is a small dog, equally at home actively playing or snuggling on a lap. It is an intelligent and affectionate breed and is always happy to be the centre of attention. The breed thrives on human companionship, plays well with children, other dogs of all sizes and also cats. 

Appearance

The Havanese is a sturdy, small, longhaired, drop-eared companion dog, measuring 21-29cm tall, and is covered with a long, ideally wavy, untrimmed coat.

The breed’s plumed tail is carried over its back and it has a lively, springy gait. While the tail’s long plume of hair falls over the body, the tail itself should never touch the back.

The Havanese has large dark almond shaped eyes, with a gentle expression, and is bred in a great variety of colours, patterns and markings. In the show ring, the breed should be presented as natural as possible, while consistent with good grooming. The breed should never appear trimmed, except for feet and hygienic trimming.

Health

While some health conditions can occur, the Havanese remains a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of approximately 12 to 15 years. The majority of Havanese experience few significant health issues.

Dedicated breeders health test hips and elbows, eyes, patellar luxation and cardiac. All breeds have inheritable disorders, some are more serious and widespread, others much more limited in their occurrence. Ongoing research and proper health screening will help reduce health issues in the breed for future generations.

Suitability

The Havanese is ideal for families with children of all ages, older people who like a happy and lively dog without being too small, and anyone who is happy to be beguiled by this active, happy breed.

Havanese are highly intelligent and eager to please, and they are easily trained, so long as you use only positive methods. This can be a sensitive breed, so care must be taken to not scold them harshly. Socialisation from an early age is very important. Expose them calmly to a wide variety of new places and people, always ensuring that the experiences are positive and not intimidating. Gentle, patient training will result in a wonderful companion dog. They are affectionate with people and get along with other nonaggressive pets. (2)

The Havanese should be fed a high-quality dog food appropriate to his age (puppy, adult or senior). Some Havanese can be prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. If you choose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. (2)

Maintenance

The Havanese is a non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog, although it will lose some coat in the brush, when it rubs against furniture and in its bedding. Minimal shedding, however, does not mean no maintenance. As most of the dead hair stays within the strands of the new coat, matting is common so regular daily grooming is required. If the coat is to be left its natural length, weekly grooming will be required, which is not a hardship but a bonding time with your Havanese. Show dogs command daily brushing to keep the beautiful coat in healthy condition.

This can be done by gently running a comb or soft brush over the dog while he is on your lap. Pet owners often choose to have their dog’s coat clipped to a short trim to reduce grooming time. The Havanese should also be bathed occasionally as needed. The corners of the eyes should be gently cleaned daily to prevent tear-stain of the lighter-colored hair in the area. Check the ears often to remove excess wax or accumulated debris and wipe out the inside of the ear-flap with a slightly moistened gauze or paper towel. (2)

The Havanese has moderate exercise needs. They will benefit from a brisk daily walk or a fun playtime with their owner in the backyard, as they are happiest when someone is with them. Romping inside the home can also provide enough activity. Never over-exercise a Havanese of any age. If they are panting and struggling to keep up, it is time to go home. Havanese do well in both houses and apartments, but they are not happy left alone for hours at a time. (2)

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Havanese, you may think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Havanese and its needs, and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.

References

1. Dogs Australia
2. American Kennel Club