Havanese

By LifeLearn

"Cuban Cutie"

Photo of Havanese

History

Hailing back to old Bichon breeds, the Havanese stemmed from European breeds accompanying sailors on their journeys to Cuba. The well-heeled fell for them instantly. This connection to wealth almost spelled the death knell of the breed during the Cuban revolution. Fortunately some were secretly brought to the United States during the upheaval, and they've enjoyed the same delighted reception wherever their paws have landed.

Temperament

The breed is sweet, playful and sensitive – yet will bark a greeting or an alarm. They enjoy other animals and welcome visiting playmates or new roommates. Their sensitivity means that they should never be treated roughly. Yelling is not necessary, as they're willing to please – although they are normal dogs that sometimes like to test you before acquiescing to your wishes.

Appearance

Fuzzy, wuzzy and, oh, so cute. The coat can be curly or wavy. A long tail curls over the back. They are born with many different colors and patterns, each an individual.

Training

Havanese are so happy, they are not only willing but eager to do almost anything - from formal agility or obedience to just playing fetch or tag with the kids. They make wonderful therapy dogs, delighted to curl up on a lap and settle in for a long petting session.

Grooming & Care

The Havanese might look sweet enough to eat, but grooming is no piece of cake. The corner of the eyes should be cleaned with a soft, moist cloth. The coat sheds within itself so there is minimal shedding. Unless the coat is corded, however, brushing should happen consistently every other day or mats will occur. A corded coat is similar to that of a Komondor or Puli , albeit smaller scale. These coats take dedicated separation into attractive cords when the coat begins knotting at six to eight months. After this is completed, care is almost nonexistent except for regular bathing and drying, which takes longer than with an uncorded coat. All this care means that some owners elect to clip a pet, particularly after struggling with the teenage shed when mats seem to occur hourly.

Health Concerns

The breed is remarkably healthy, but occasionally heart or liver abnormalities can occur. Parents should be CERF tested particularly for cataracts. Veterinarians should palpate knees of pups to make sure there are no slipped patellas or bone deformities.

Famous Havanese

Barbara Walters has Havanese dogs.

Ideal Owner
Activity Level Active
Schedule Full-time but comes home for lunch
Personal Style Affectionate, Playful, Friendly
Training Style Gentle, Creative and fun
Home Anything goes with enough exercise
Children The more, the merrier!
Experience Not necessary
Quick Facts
Size Small
Grooming High-maintenance - needs daily grooming
Exercise Moderate - needs to walk or play every day
Training Eager to please, Does not respond to harsh methods
Temperament Goofy and playful, Enthusiastic, Sweet
Challenges Lots of grooming, barks often.
Height 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight 7 to 13 pounds
Life 12 to 15 years
Home Alone Not often or for long - wants to be where you are
With Kids Fine with older kids
With Strangers Cautious at first but okay with them if you are
Availability Available, so choose your breeder carefully
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