Havanese
Some Advantages
- Adorable and small
- Loves attention
- Good with kids
- Easy to train
- A long-living breed
- Doesn’t feel compelled to bark at everything
- Good for apartment living
- A fine and alert little watchdog
- Does not shed
Some Challenges
- Lots of grooming required
- Can be difficult to housebreak
- Can’t be left alone too much
Size
Toy 8-12 inches
Weight
7-13 pounds
Coat
Long soft double coat
Colors
Cream, white, champagne, black, blue, gold, chocolate, black and tan, parti-color and tri-colored
Life Expectancy
14-15 years
The Havanese is a playful, happy little sprite of a dog. Despite its small size, however, this sturdy dog isn’t as fragile as many toy breeds. The Havanese is ideally suited for apartment living, but likes to play outside in a fenced yard too, if available. This charming and much sought-after pet is the 52nd most popular breed registered with the AKC in the United States.
History and Origin: The Havanese originated in the Mediterranean; merchants hoping to trade with Cuban businessmen were presented with these elfin dogs as gifts. Before long, the dog became a status symbol in Cuba: only the ruling class could own a Havanese, peasants were forbidden. When the Cuban Revolution forced the country’s wealthier families to leave, most dogs were left behind and the breed faced near-extinction. A few Havanese, however, did make it to the United States, and the breed was successfully preserved by 1974. The AKC recognized the Havanese in 1996.
General Information: The Havanese loves attention and enjoys showing off; this jaunty little dog is bursting with personality. You’ll find this cheerful pet is a great companion for kids, playing with them happily for hours on end. With its springy gait, the active little Havanese also enjoys dashing around the yard with other pets and family members of all ages.
This bright, happy dog enjoys learning new skills, and is a good candidate for gentle obedience and agility training. This dog’s world revolves around you - never leave your Havanese alone for long periods, as it needs to feel a part of things in order to thrive. An alert and effective little watchdog, it’s nevertheless not in the Havanese’s nature to bark excessively, so it’s relatively easy to train this breed not to bark.
The Havanese belongs to the category of dogs called Bichons, or “fleecy dog” in French. Its long and luxurious double coat can be clipped short for easier care; If the long coat is desired, then it will need regular thorough brushing and combing. Excess hair should also be clipped from between the foot pads.
Health Ailments: The Havanese is a long-living breed with susceptibility to juvenile cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness. Other possible issues include luxating patellas, ear infections, tearstains and dry skin.
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