Havanese

Description: The Havanese is related to the Bichon Frise and may be referred to as the Bichon Havanese or as the Havana Silk Dog. Havanese are known as the national dog of Cuba. They are a happy, outgoing small dog who’s temperament and trainability have made them excellent candidates for obedience training. Havanese cannot miss what is going on around them, so you may find them sitting somewhere high. They can be quite vocal as they love the sound of their own voice.

Other Names: Bichon Havanais

Type: Companion Dog

Height: 8½ – 11½ inches, the ideal being 9 – 10½ inches. Weight: 7 – 13 lbs., the ideal being 8 – 11 lbs.

Colors: White, cream, champagne, black, black and tan, blue, gold, chocolate, parti-color and tri-colored. Coat: Long, flat and soft; tufts towards extremities.

Temperament: Havanese are responsive, friendly With Children: Yes, loving human companionship, they will play tirelessly with children. With Pets: Yes Special Skills: Family pet.

Watch-dog: High Guard-dog: Low

Care and Training: Regular brushing or combing of the Havanese non shedding coat will keep them free of tangles. Havanese require minimal exercise. Learning Rate: High

Activity: Medium – High Living Environment: Indoors with semi constant companionship.

Health Issues: Juvenile cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy.

Life Span: Mid to late teens.

Country of Origin: Cuba History: The Havanese has the same origins as the white Toys dogs from the Mediterranean area called Barbichons. The earliest reference to the modern Havanese go back to Plinius in the Mediterranean region. Havanese may have originated on the island of Malta. Dogs in both Spain and Italy played an large part in bringing the Havanese to the New World. Unknown until the early 1970’s the Havanese has in recent years being exhibited in most large European and Scandinavian shows.

First Registered by the AKC: 1995 AKC Group: Toy Class: Toy Registries: AKC, FCI