Havanese

Appearance:

Body: Small and rectangular, slightly longer than tall, straight topline rising from the withers to the rump, deep chest, short, muscular loin, and well-sprung ribs.

Coat: Long and silky, soft on the outer coat and under coat, wavy or curly and profuse.

Color: Fawn, white, black, and parti-colored.

Ears: Medium length, pointed, high set, with a distinct fold.

Eyes: Large and almond shaped, dark brown, and wide set.

Feet: Round with well-arched toes. Pads and nails are black, brown, pink or a combination thereof.

Head: Broad and somewhat rounded, moderate stop, broad, black nose, and rectangular-shaped muzzle.

Legs: Forelegs are straight, strong, and well-boned. Hindquarters are well-boned and muscular.

Neck: Medium length and slightly arched, well-balanced to the height and length of the dog.

Size:
Weight: 7 - 13 pounds
Height: 8.5 - 11.5 inches

Tail: Carried loosely and upward over the back.

Behavior

Recommended for novice dog handlers
Good with children and with other dogs

The Havanese is a quick, highly spirited, investigative, and people oriented breed. A well behaved child will find great joy in playing with the Havanese. He is a friendly, quiet breed who loves to run and have fun in the yard with children and with other dogs.

AKC Standard says he is "a small sturdy dog of immense charm. Playful and alert. The Havanese is both trainable and intelligent with a sweet, non-quarrelsome disposition."

Housebreaking your Havanese will take time and patience. Due to his small bladder, he will need to relieve himself more frequently than other dogs. Be patient and extend his time for relieving himself gradually. Yelling at him or putting his nose in his own urine will only make him urinate more frequently. Instead of punishing him, praise him each time he progresses to the next timeline.

The Havanese is both shy and sensitive. He will become very attached to his family and master, and will stick by your side, like a shadow, wherever you go. Be sure your training methods are gentle and positive with lots of praise and rewarding treats. Harsh treatment or abuse is never recommended and will only lead to an unresponsive dog.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Toy Group
A member of the Bichon family of dogs.

He has been used for a wide variety of jobs:
Companion
Herding poultry
Mold and termite detection
Performing
Playmate for children
Service dog
Therapy dog
Tracking

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate daily exercise and play time.

Grooming: Brush daily and keep his ear canals clean and dry.

Health

Life Expectancy: 14 - 15 Years

Possible Problems:
Allergies
Cataracts
Chondrodysplasia (stunted leg growth)
Deafness
Ear infections - must be cleaned regularly
Heart Murmurs
Hip Dysplasia
Liver Shunts
Low Thyroid
Luxating Patella
Skin conditions

Although this is a long list of possible problems, the breeding of this dog has improved and most Havanese are notably healthy dogs. As with any breed, it is important to know the reputation of the breeder and the history of the dog before making a purchase.

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for eyes

Country of Origin

Cuba - 1700s to 1800s