Havanese
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Appearance
| Havanese Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | |
| Origin | Cuba |
| Size | Small |
| Height (at withers) | 7-12in (18-30cm) |
| Weight | 7-13lbs (3-6kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Varies |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 1-9 |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming | High |
| Barking Tendency | Medium-high |
| Exercise requirements | |
| Ease of training | High |
| Suitability for kids | Medium |
| Animal compatability | High |
| Aggression levels | Low |
| Distress if left | High |
The Havanese is a compact but sturdy sweet looking dog. The body has well-sprung ribs, a level topline, straight legs and a high-set tail carried over the back. The head has dark round eyes, sidehanging ears, a black nose and an unusually small tongue. The double coat is soft and long, and can be straight, wavy or curly. The colouring varies but tends to include white, black, champagne, blue and silver.
Temperament
Havaneses are friendly and outgoing little dogs with bags of character. Mild mannered, affectionate and playful, they love being around their owners and make ideal companions and family pets. They can be very entertaining at times but can also be quite demanding and do not like to be neglected, and so are not suited to those with little time to dedicate to their pets. These spirited and sometimes sensitive dogs are intelligent and keen observers, and they often sit on a high-point and simply observe any goings on. Being quick learners, responsive and always eager to please, they are relatively easy to train and so are suitable for both experienced and inexperienced dog owners, although some may be difficult to housebreak. Havaneses get along very well with older, more considerate children but are not suitable for smaller kids due to their small size. They also get along well with other pets and dogs and are mostly friendly around strangers too. Despite this, these brave little dogs still make good watchdogs and will alert owners to the presence of strangers, to whom they will quickly warm once an owner shows acceptance.
History & Skills
Havaneses originate from Cuba, where they are the National Dog. These dogs were once popular amongst the ruling classes of Havana, from where they derive their name, and they belong to the Bichon family of dogs. In the 1800s they were crossed with the Balnquito to create the Bichon Havanese. These days they are popular as household pets but are relatively rare.
Breed Specific Ailments
Havaneses tend to live between 12-15 years and are a fairly healthy breed. Some of the health issued that have been linked to this breed include luxating patella, thyroid problems, PRA and cataracts.
Grooming
Havaneses are low shedders and so are suitable for those suffering with allergies. Their grooming requirements are pretty high though and their coat will need brushing every other day, and the coat itself may need clipping every six weeks or so. The hair around the bottom area should be kept trimmed for hygiene reasons, and the eyes and ears should be kept clean to reduce the chance of infections.
Exercise & Environment
Havaneses are indoor dogs, where they tend to be fairly active, and need plenty of exercise. They will need a short daily walk and a yard or garden area in which to play.