RegisterLogin

Havanese: Dog Breed Profile, Characteristics, and Care Guide

By:
| Updated: August 18, 2023
Long haired havanese full body picture walking on a small path

Havanese are small dogs with long coats and silky hair. They come in a variety of colors and often have white markings on their faces, chests, or paws. They are the national dog of Cuba and have a history that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. They are sometimes referred to as the Spanish Silk Poodle or the Bichon Havanais.

History of the Havanese Breed

Havanese have a long and fascinating history that spans several centuries and continents. They are believed to be descended from the Bichon Frise, a small white dog that originated in the Mediterranean region and was popular among the nobility and the sailors.

The Bichon Frise was brought to Cuba by the Spanish colonists in the 16th century, where they adapted to the tropical climate and developed a longer and silkier coat. They were also crossed with other local dogs, such as the Poodle and the Maltese, to create a new breed that was unique to Cuba.

The new breed was named after the capital city of Havana, where they were mostly found. They were also known as the Spanish Silk Poodle or the Bichon Havanais. They became the favorite dogs of the Cuban aristocracy and were often given as gifts to foreign dignitaries or visitors.

The common people also cherished Havanese dogs, who used them as watchdogs, companions, or entertainers. They were known for their intelligence, agility, and ability to perform tricks. They were also very loyal and devoted to their owners, even in times of hardship or turmoil.

Unfortunately, the Havanese breed almost went extinct after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, when many owners fled the country and left their dogs behind. The dogs that remained faced starvation, disease, or persecution. Only a few of them survived in rural areas or hidden places.

Havanese were rescued by American breeders who smuggled some of them out of Cuba in the 1970s. They brought them to the United States and started to revive the breed. They also established the Havanese Club of America and registered the breed with the American Kennel Club in 1996.

Havanese are now one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States, ranking 24th in the AKC breed popularity ranking. They are also recognized by other major kennel clubs around the world, such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and the United Kennel Club (UKC).

Havanese have also spread to countries such as Australia, Europe, and Asia, where they have gained many fans and admirers. They are still considered the national dog of Cuba and a symbol of its culture and history.

Breed Overview

Dog Breed Havanese
Nicknames Havana Silk Dog, Spanish Silk Poodle, Bichon Havanais
Coat Long, silky, wavy or curly
Coat Colors Any color or combination of colors, including black, brown, white, cream, silver, red, gold, champagne, chocolate, or blue
Coat Patterns Solid, parti-color, brindle, sable, or piebald
Weight 7 to 13 pounds
Height 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan 14 to 16 years
Origin Cuba
Breed Ranking 25th in the AKC breed popularity ranking

Havanese Dog Characteristics

Havanese are part of the dog toy group, meaning they are small and playful. They weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and stand between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulder. They have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years and are typically very healthy dogs.

Havanese have long coats that can be wavy or curly, depending on the individual dog. Their coat can be any color or combination of colors, including black, brown, white, cream, silver, red, gold, champagne, chocolate, or blue.

Some Havanese have a solid color coat, while others have patterns such as parti-color, brindle, sable, or piebald.

Havanese do not shed much but require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and mat-free. They need to be brushed at least twice a week and bathed once a month.

Some owners choose to clip their Havanese’s coat short for easier maintenance, but this is not necessary for the health of the dog.

Havanese have dark brown eyes that are expressive and alert. They have black noses and a scissors bite. Their ears are drop-shaped and hang close to their head. Their tail is plumed and carried over their back.

Havanese dog playing with a toy bone
Pixabay

Temperament & Personality

Havanese are affectionate, cheerful, and loyal dogs that love to be with their human family. They are very social and get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats. They are not aggressive or timid but rather friendly and outgoing. They are also very intelligent and trainable and can learn a variety of tricks and commands.

Havanese are unsuitable for owners who are away for long periods, as they can suffer from separation anxiety. They need attention and companionship from their owners and do not like to be left alone. They can also be vocal and bark at strangers or make other noises.

They are not effective guard dogs, nor do they pretend to be. They’re simply very alert dogs that often notify their owners of anything unusual.

Havanese are adaptable and can live in any type of home as long as they have enough exercise and stimulation. They do not need much space or a yard but enjoy going for walks or playing with toys. They can also participate in dog sports such as agility, obedience, or rally.

Common Health Issues in Havanese Dogs

Havanese are generally healthy dogs that can live up to 16 years or more. However, like any breed, they can be affected by some genetic diseases that owners should be aware of. Some of these include:

Long hair havanese dog standing on a log in a woodsy area
Pixabay
  • Patellar luxation.
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart murmur
  • Portosystemic shunts

Consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of these diseases in your Havanese pup.

Diet and Nutrition

Havanese need a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them healthy and fit. They should be fed a balanced and complete dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. They should not be overfed or given too many treats, as they can easily become overweight and develop health problems.

Avoid giving them human food or table scraps, as these can cause digestive issues or allergies. Also, keep them away from bones, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or xylitol, as these can be toxic to dogs.

Grooming

Havanese need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and mat-free. They should be brushed at least twice weekly with a pin or slicker brush to remove loose hair or dirt and check for any tangles or mats that need to be cut out or gently untangled.

Havanese should be bathed once a month with a mild dog shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat clean and shiny.

Some owners choose to clip their Havanese’s coat short for easier maintenance, but this is not necessary for the health of the dog. However, if you do decide to do so, use professional clippers or scissors and follow the natural lines of the dog’s body. Leave some hair on the head, ears, tail, and feet for protection and appearance.

closeup cream colored havanese dog face
Pixabay

Havanese Fun Facts

Havanese are not only lovable and adorable dogs, but they also have some interesting facts that make them even more special. Here are some of them:

  • Havanese are the national dog of Cuba and are named after the capital city of Havana.
  • Havanese are descended from the Bichon Frise, which originated in the Mediterranean region and were brought to Cuba by Spanish colonists in the 16th century.
  • Havanese were once known as the Spanish Silk Poodle because of their long and silky coat.
  • Havanese were popular among the Cuban aristocracy and were often given as gifts to foreign dignitaries.
  • Havanese almost became extinct after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, when many owners fled the country and left their dogs behind.
  • Havanese were rescued by American breeders who smuggled some of them out of Cuba in the 1970s.
  • Havanese are now one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States, ranking 24th in the AKC breed popularity ranking.
  • Havanese have a unique gait that makes them look like they are dancing or skipping.
  • Havanese are very versatile and can excel in various activities such as agility, obedience, rally, therapy, or service.
  • Havanese are very expressive and can make various sounds, such as grunts, whines, howls, or even talk.

Where to Buy a Havanese Puppy

Havanese are not very common dogs, but at the same time, they aren’t exactly rare either. They can be found in most countries and regions, but sometimes with different names or standards depending on the local kennel club.

long curly haired havanese posing for the camera
Pixabay

Generally, a Havanese puppy can cost between $1000 and $3000 in the United States and between £800 and £2500 in the United Kingdom. However, these prices are only estimates and may change over time or according to the market.

The best way to find a reputable breeder is to contact your country or region’s national breed club or local kennel club. They can provide you with a list of registered and responsible breeders who follow the ethical and health standards of the breed. They can also advise you on choosing a healthy and well-socialized puppy.

We always recommend visiting the breeder in person and seeing the puppy and/or its parents before deciding. At this time, you can ask for proof of health tests, certificates, and any contracts the breeder requires. You should also be prepared to answer some questions from the breeder about your lifestyle, experience, and expectations.

Conclusion

Havanese are small dogs with big personalities that make wonderful companions for anyone looking for a loyal, cheerful, and intelligent pet. They are easy to train and get along well with just about everyone. They don’t need a lot of space or exercise, but they do need lots of love and attention. They are also very beautiful with their signature long coat that comes in many colors and patterns.

More Dog Breeds

If you’re interested in learning about similar dog breeds, check out:

Or browse all our dog breed articles!

FAQ

Are Havanese hypoallergenic?

Yes, Havanese are considered hypoallergenic dogs because they do not shed much and have a low-dander coat. However, no dog is completely allergen-free, so some people may still be allergic to them.

How much are Havanese puppies?

A Havanese puppy can cost between $1000 and $3000 in the United States and between £800 and £2500 in the United Kingdom.

Are Havanese smart?

Yes, Havanese are very smart dogs that can learn a variety of tricks and commands. They are also very responsive and eager to please their owners. They can excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, or rally.

How long do Havanese live?

Havanese have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years, which is above average for a dog of their size.

How big do Havanese get?

Havanese are small dogs that weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and stand between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulder.

BuzzPetz Staff Author Image
BuzzPetz Staff

Temporary BuzzPetz About Us

Read More

More From BuzzPetz

Before you go - You'll want to check out these articles!
[ultimatemember form_id="4648"]

Already a member?

Login Here

[uwp_register id="3" title="register"]

Not a member?

Register Here