The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog with a profuse, soft, and silky coat that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Small, typically 8.5-11.5 inches tall at the shoulder.

7-13 pounds.

Long, soft, and silky; can be straight, wavy, or curly.

All colors and patterns are permissible, including white, cream, gold, red, chocolate, black, and various combinations.

Carried arched over the back, covered in long, silky hair.

Large, dark, and almond-shaped.

Drop ears, moderately long, and covered in hair.

Havanese are known for their affectionate, playful, and outgoing personalities. They are intelligent, eager to please, and thrive on human interaction.

Deeply devoted to their families and love to cuddle.

Energetic and enjoy games, especially with their human companions.

Quick learners, but can be sensitive to harsh training methods.

Generally good with children and other pets, especially when socialized early.

Make good watchdogs, but are not excessive barkers.

Can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses.

The Havanese is an excellent choice for families, singles, and seniors looking for a loving, adaptable, and relatively low-shedding companion.

Intelligent and trainable.

Housebreaking can be challenging.

The ideal owner for a Havanese is someone who can provide plenty of love, attention, and regular grooming. They thrive in a home where they are considered part of the family and can participate in daily activities.

The Havanese requires regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coat. They have moderate dietary needs and adapt well to various living environments.

Daily brushing is recommended to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming may be needed every few weeks.

Bathe as needed, typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on their coat and lifestyle.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 2-3 weeks.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental disease.

Havanese are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Havanese respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. They are sensitive and can become withdrawn if trained harshly. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure a well-adjusted adult dog. Consistency and patience are key.

While they are not high-energy dogs, Havanese still need daily exercise to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight. This can include short walks, play sessions in a fenced yard, or interactive games indoors. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep their minds engaged.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate your Havanese.

Expose your puppy to various sights, sounds, people, and other animals.

Establish clear rules and boundaries from the beginning.

Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain their attention.

Can be a little challenging; crate training is often recommended.

Havanese are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

A degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness.

Clouding of the lens of the eye, which can impair vision.

Havanese can be prone to congenital deafness.

The Havanese breed descends from dogs brought to Cuba from the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands during the 16th and 17th centuries. These dogs, likely Bichon-type dogs, interbred and eventually developed into the Blanquito de la Habana, the direct ancestor of the modern Havanese. The Blanquito was a pampered lapdog of the Cuban aristocracy. During the Cuban Revolution in 1959, many Cubans fled to the United States, some bringing their Havanese with them. These dogs became the foundation stock for the breed's revival in the US. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Havanese in 1996.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Havanese are considered to be a good choice for people with allergies because they shed less than many other breeds. Their hair-like coat produces less dander.

Havanese need moderate exercise, about 30 minutes to an hour per day, including walks and playtime.

Yes, Havanese are generally very good with children, especially when raised with them. They are playful and tolerant, but supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children.

Havanese are alert and will bark to announce visitors, but they are not generally excessive barkers. Proper training can help manage barking.

The average lifespan of a Havanese is 14-16 years.

Their long coat requires commitment. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting. Many owners opt for professional grooming to help manage their coat.

Havanese thrive on companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Crate training and providing plenty of mental stimulation can help.

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train using positive reinforcement methods.

While both are small, white, and fluffy, the Havanese has a longer, silkier coat that comes in many colors, while the Bichon Frise is always white and has a more tightly curled coat. Temperamentally, Havanese tend to be a little more adaptable and less prone to barking.

You can find Havanese puppies from reputable breeders or through Havanese rescue organizations. Always prioritize ethical sourcing and avoid puppy mills.