Havanese
Have an interest in a small dog for your next pet? Have an urge for something a bit sturdier than the typical lap dog; a companion that can romp and play with the children? Have a need for a dog that sheds very little? If you’ve answered yes to the above questions, then you just might want to . . . Havanese.
Recognized by the AKC in the Toy grouping as recently as 1996, this breed is not really all that well known. However, this delightful bundle of energy meets all the above criteria and more. Still interested? Then by all means you just might want to “have a look” at this remarkable little dog, the havanese.
For more information on Havanese please read this complete Havanese book,
Origin
If you haven’t already guessed from the name, the Havanese is a native of Cuba. Indeed it has a deep, rich history with the country being Cuba’s only native breed and considered its “National Dog”. There is some speculation though that the breed’s actual origin can be traced to the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. Cubans themselves, on the other hand, believe the breed originated from the islands of Malta, or Bologna, near Italy.
For certain this is an old breed originating around the 18th century. Direct ancestors appear to be the Maltese, Bolognese and the Bichon Frise which themselves developed around major ports of the Spanish Empire at that time. Without doubt, the dog found its way to Cuba via the Spanish. Early history of the breed shows evidence that it was owned primarily by the wealthy and was considered a status symbol often being obtained only by receiving one as a gift.
Appearance
While considered a toy breed, this small dog has a much sturdier build than others of the grouping. As such, the Havanese looks and behaves more like a typical family dog as opposed to a tiny lap dog.
The Havanese possesses a soft, silky, double coat that is extremely light and can take 2 years or more to reach its full length of about 6 - 8 inches. Despite the longish coat this dog actually sheds very little making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. The light hair is insulating which protects it from the heat of tropical climates. All colors and combinations can be found, with color diversity being a distinguishing characteristic of the breed.
Males are 9 – 11 inches and 7 – 14 lbs. Females are 8 – 10 inches and 6 – 13 lbs.
Temperament
The Havanese is an intelligent dog with a delightful disposition, and one easily trained. It is immensely affectionate, playful and charming, making it an ideal pet. It loves attention, but does not have to acquire it by being in one’s lap constantly. Indeed, this little guy enjoys nothing more than to romp and play. His accommodating demeanor makes him an excellent companion for children or the elderly. In fact he pretty much gets along with everyone, including other dogs, so don’t expect him to be a good watch dog. He may indeed bark when strangers approach but more than likely he’s hoping to play with them.
Grooming
The Havanese should have a thorough brushing daily, or at the very least every other day, to prevent matting. Its longish coat will require bathing a bit more than other breeds. The lighter colored variety can develop rust stains around the eyes or the occasional dirty muzzle when they eat, so they may need to be bathed a bit more. Many owners keep their Havanese (non-show dogs) in a shorter clip for easier maintenance. Check the eyes and ears at least once a month and keep the nails trimmed.
Exercise
This playful, energetic little fellow will require a daily walk as well as time set aside for play. They are anything but lazy but keep in mind they have short legs so the walks should be slow paced and not all that lengthy. Play can simply be a game of tug of war or fetch in the living room, but understand the Havanese does love to play. It’s a big part of who he is. Highly intelligent, it responds very well to proper, reinforced training and has the ability to learn and perform any number of tricks. In fact, they have a long standing reputation as a circus dog.
Summary
Charles Dickens, Queen Victoria, and Barbara Walters are among the list of best known individuals who have fallen under the spell of this charming little imp with the big personality. Small it may be, but it is sturdy enough to “roughhouse” with the kids or simply play fetch with the geriatric crowd making it an ideal companion for just about anyone. Though not overwhelming, the grooming requirements of the breed are more involved than many others and should always be factored into the decision whether or not to own one. While still not as well known as other breeds, the Havanese just might be the quintessential family pet, particularly families with children.
For more information on Havanese please read this complete Havanese book