Havanese

Get to Know Havaneses

• Cuban Roots: The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, where they were developed as companion dogs for the Cuban aristocracy. Their small size and affectionate nature made them popular lap dogs.
• Silky Coat: Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that can come in a variety of colors. Despite their luxurious appearance, their coat is relatively low-shedding, but it requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
• Playful and Affectionate: Havanese are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their cheerful disposition makes them a joy to be around.
• Compact Size: Havanese are small dogs, typically weighing between 7 to 13 pounds, making them well-suited for apartment living. Despite their small size, they are sturdy and energetic, enjoying playtime and walks.
• Trainable and Intelligent: Havanese are intelligent and easy to train, often excelling in obedience and agility competitions. Their eagerness to please makes them quick learners and delightful companions.

Breed History

The Havanese is a small and charming breed that originates from Cuba, where it served as a companion to aristocrats and wealthy families in the 18th century. This breed is a member of the Bichon family and is named after Havana, the capital of Cuba. Known as the "Velcro dog" for its tendency to stick close to its owners, the Havanese has a long history as a beloved lapdog and entertainer. Its cheerful disposition and adaptability have made it a popular breed worldwide, cherished as a loyal and affectionate companion.

Personality and Behaviour

• Cheerful and Playful: Havanese dogs are known for their happy and lively nature. They thrive on interaction and enjoy entertaining their families with playful antics.
• Affectionate and Devoted: These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and love being part of the family. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent companions, and they are particularly good with children and other pets.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Havanese are smart and eager to please, making training an enjoyable experience. They excel in obedience and agility training and are also commonly seen as therapy dogs due to their friendly and calm demeanor.

Care

• Exercise: Havanese dogs are moderately active and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Short walks, playtime indoors or outdoors, and interactive toys are ideal to meet their needs. While they don’t demand intense exercise, regular activity is important to prevent boredom and keep them mentally stimulated.
• Grooming: The Havanese has a long, silky coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent tangles and matting. Daily brushing is recommended to keep the coat in good condition. While some owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" for easier care, regular grooming appointments and occasional baths are essential. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care should also be part of their grooming routine to maintain their overall health.
• Training and Socialization: Havanese are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise. Early training and socialization are vital to help them grow into well-mannered adults. Exposing them to different environments, people, and animals will ensure they develop confidence and reduce the risk of anxiety or shyness.