Havanese
dog Breed Profile
Havanese are small dogs weighing seven to 13 pounds. The height ranges from 8 1/2 to 11 1/2 inches at the shoulder. The body is longer than tall they have drop ears and a tail that curls over the back. Havanese generally mature at 1 year of age, although they reach their full size around 6 to 8 months.
In this article
Size
Weight
8-13 lbs.
7-12 lbs.
Height
10 in.
(at withers)
11 in.
Coat
Length
Medium
Color
All colors and combinations including white
Care
Exercise
20-40 minutes/day
Energy level
Very energetic
Longevity
10-15 yrs.
Needs
High
Traits
Moderate
Low
Drooling
Low
Digging
Low
Grooming Needs
High
Social Needs
High
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Toy
UKC Class.
Companion Dog
Prevalence
Rare
Some Cubans, who fled to the U.S. during the revolution, brought their Havanese dogs, which became the foundation stock for the breed today.
Havanese are small dogs weighing seven to 13 pounds. The height ranges from 8 1/2 to 11 1/2 inches at the shoulder. The body is longer than tall they have drop ears and a tail that curls over the back. Havanese generally mature at 1 year of age, although they reach their full size around 6 to 8 months.
- FORM -
Havanese are affectionate and happy dogs. They do not make good kennel dogs and prefer being with their owners. They are active dogs and enjoy learning tricks and playing games with their owners.
Havanese are intelligent and trainable. They need socialization to prevent them from becoming timid with strangers.
Havanese need a large amount of interaction with people. They are generally good with other pets if properly socialized, and they enjoy outside activities.
The Havanese can be a good watchdog but poor guard dog because of the small size. Occasionally, one may bark excessively if not properly trained.
Havanese require brushing and combing three or more times a week to ensure a mat-free coat. They do not require trimming.
The Havanese breed is ideal for a person who wants a small, active dog who does not require a large yard and can be contented with frequent walks and games of fetch. These dogs do not do well left alone for long periods.
Havanese typically live from 10 to 15 years.
The Havanese is an old breed from the bichon family. Originally, Tenerife dogs came to Cuba with Spanish farmers and noblemen in the early 1500s. These dogs developed into the Havanese with little, if any, outside influences.
In Havana, the breed became a family pet. By the 18th century, Europeans vacationing in Havana discovered the Havanese. The little dog quickly became a hit among Spanish, French and British nobility.
With Castro's revolution, some Cubans who fled to the United States brought their Havanese with them. These 11 dogs became the foundation stock for the Havanese of today.