The Havanese is a Bichon Group breed, that includes Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Coton de Tulear, Lowchen and Maltese The Havanese is a good-humoured small dog, toy dog that were bred to be good companions, so are good with children. They like to have attention and will do tricks to catch peoples attention. This love for attention means they are not the choice for a working couple. They will often follow owners around the home, but are rarely overly possessive of their “ people”, so are good with other dogs, pets and other animals. This seeking for attention often shows when eating, as they like someone present, so if you leave the room, they will often follow, eating as they go, which can be messy. They are a “real dog”, playing games such as tug of war with all their strength. Like many toy dogs, they do not require long walks, but they do love attention. Professional dog trainers such as London Dog Training love them, as they are so responsive to positive reinforcement.

For dog care they are relatively simple. They do not shed much, so whilst not strictly non-allegenic, they may be suitable for a family with an allergic member.

The Havanese have a slight wavy double coat, which is soft and light, with a denser undercoat.

The Havanese should be groomed every day, as the fur has a tendency to mat. If not a show dog, you can have the fur cut. Whilst they have a good coat, it is a coat to keep the hot sun off the body, not warmth inside, so in some areas you may need to buy sweaters for them.

When you bath them, dry with a towel and allow them to dry off naturally inside, as they are susceptible to skin problems if dried with a hair drier. It is a breed that for showing needs to keep a natural look, but for everyday looks and practicality may benefit from bows etc..

The Havanese now come in many different colours and patterns, but were originally white.
The Havanese has a sturdy build relative to most toy dog breeds. They have a weight range of four to six Kgs ( about twelve lbs). Its height measured at the withers is about two hundred and fifty mm( normally ten). It is an unusual dog in that the rump is higher than the withers.

The Havanese have a sprightly agile movement. They are good swimmers, but many of them do not like swimming, but careful close to water if there is something for them to run after.

They have almond eyes, with average sized ears that are well covered and hang down. The Havanese are inclined to ear infections, so regularly check their ears and clean them. Every so often they may require their inner hairs to be pulled by tweezers or hand. The tail sweeps over the back and is also well covered. The Havanese have a great sense of smell and are trained often for search. They are easily trainable so are often found in circus shows, tracking, hearing assistance dogs, mould, termite and drug search.

The Havanese normally live fourteen to sixteen years. They being breed from a limited gene pool suffer from some genetic diseases. These include liver disease, heart disease, cataracts and retinal dysplasia ( blots on the retina). It is advisable only to buy Havanese from parent dogs who have clear eye certificates. Havanese sometimes develop brown tear stains, which is especially noticeable on those with white or light coats.

The dog originated from the now extent Bichon Tenerife and was taken to Cuba by traders and settlers. Being popular in Havana in Cuba. Globally the Havanese is a relatively recent breed, taking off in the 1970s from only 10 animals in the United States. They were common in Cuba, prior to the revolution, but suffered afterwards. It is now one of the fastest growing registrations in most country kennel clubs. For this reason it may be difficult to acquire one, so the best of luck on finding one.

A wonderful family dog that is well worth considering.