The Havanese is a dog that impossible not to love. With his long, silky hair, expressive eyes, and a tail that curls over his back, he looks like a toy, but he is sturdy enough for almost any adventure. He is the only dog breed native to Cuba, and his island heritage shines through in his sunny, happy-go-lucky personality.

Unlike many toy breeds that can be yappy or high-strung, the Havanese is famously calm and adaptable. He is a “Velcro dog” who lives for human companionship. Whether you live in a studio apartment in the city or a sprawling farmhouse, the Havanese is content as long as he is with you. He is a natural clown, often performing tricks or inventing games to make his people laugh.

History and Origin: The Silk Dog of Havana

The Havanese is part of the Bichon family of dogs, which includes the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Coton de Tulear. These small white dogs were traded around the Mediterranean by sailors for centuries.

Spanish colonists brought these small companion dogs to Cuba in the early 16th century. Over hundreds of years of isolation on the island, they adapted to the tropical climate and developed into a distinct breed. Their signature coat—light, silky, and insulating against the heat—earned them the nickname “Blanquito de la Habana” (Little White Dog of Havana).

They became the darlings of the Cuban aristocracy. Wealthy plantation owners and socialites carried them everywhere. However, the breed nearly went extinct during the Cuban Revolution of 1959. As wealthy Cubans fled to the United States and Europe, many were forced to leave their dogs behind. Only 11 dogs tracked to the US are the ancestors of almost all Havanese outside of Cuba today. From those 11 dogs, the breed has made a spectacular comeback, becoming one of the most popular companion breeds in the world.

Physical Characteristics

The Havanese is small but sturdy, not fragile like some toy breeds.

• Height: 8.5-11.5 inches (21-29 cm).
• Weight: 7-13 pounds (3-6 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Coat: The breed’s crowning glory. It is long, soft, and silky. It can be straight, wavy, or curly. Unlike a wool coat (like a Poodle), it is more like human hair and provides insulation against the hot sun.
• Colors: Havanese come in a rainbow of colors. White, cream, champagne, black, blue, silver, chocolate, gold, and parti-colors are all accepted.
• Eyes: Large, dark, and almond-shaped. They have a soft, intelligent expression.
• Gait: The Havanese has a unique, springy gait. Their front legs are slightly shorter than their hind legs, giving them a bouncy step that reflects their cheerful personality.
• Tail: Plumed and carried arched forward over the back.

Temperament and Personality: The Happy Little Person

Havanese owners often describe their dogs as “little people.” They are incredibly observant and responsive.

The Ultimate Companion

They were bred for one purpose: to be companions. They excel at it. They are affectionate without being overly demanding (though they do hate being alone). They get along famously with children, other dogs, and even cats.

Smart and Trainable

Don’t let the cute face fool you; this is a smart dog. They are highly trainable and excel in dog sports like agility and rally. They were once used as circus performers because they learn tricks so quickly.

The Watchdog

They are alert and will bark to announce visitors, but they are generally friendly once the guest is welcomed inside. They are not guard dogs; they are greeters.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise

The Havanese has moderate energy needs.

• Daily: A daily walk and some indoor play are usually sufficient.
• Adaptability: They are happy to go for a long walk if you are, but they won’t tear up the house if you miss a day.
• “Run Like Hell”: Havanese are famous for their “zoomies.” They will suddenly tuck their butt and run in frantic circles around the house for a few minutes before collapsing happily on the sofa.

Training

They are sensitive dogs who live to please.

• Positive Reinforcement: Harsh methods will crush their spirit. Use treats, praise, and play.
• Housebreaking: Like many small breeds, housebreaking can take a little longer. Consistency and crate training are key.
• Paper Training: Because of their size, many owners train them to use litter boxes or pee pads for indoor options.

Health and Lifespan

Havanese are generally healthy and long-lived, often reaching 14 to 16 years.

• Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps are common in small breeds.
• Eye Issues: Cataracts, cherry eye, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
• Deafness: Congenital deafness can occur.
• Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A hip condition affecting the blood supply to the femoral head.
• Liver Shunts: A congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver.

Responsible breeders test for these conditions (knees, eyes, hearing, and hips).

Grooming and Care

The Havanese coat is beautiful but requires commitment.

• The Full Coat: If you keep the coat long (show coat), it requires daily brushing and combing to prevent mats. It is a labor of love.
• The Puppy Cut: Most pet owners opt for a “puppy cut,” where the hair is clipped short (1-2 inches) all over. This is much easier to manage but still requires brushing 2-3 times a week.
• Bathing: Every 1-3 weeks.
• Eyes: Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed or tied back to prevent irritation. Tear staining can be an issue in light-colored dogs.
• Hypoallergenic: While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, the Havanese is a low-shedding breed that is often tolerated by people with mild allergies.

Nutrition

Havanese can be picky eaters or chow hounds—it varies by dog.

• Weight: Watch their weight carefully. Even a pound of extra weight is a lot for a 10-pound dog and puts stress on their joints.
• Teeth: Small dogs are prone to dental disease. Dry food and regular teeth brushing help keep their pearly whites healthy.

Is a Havanese Right for You?

The Havanese is one of the most versatile and easy-to-live-with breeds.

Yes, if:

• You want a dog that is small but sturdy.
• You want a companion that loves everyone (kids, strangers, pets).
• You are willing to pay for regular professional grooming.
• You want a dog that is intelligent and fun to train.

No, if:

• You are gone all day (they suffer from separation anxiety).
• You want a guard dog.
• You want a dog that requires zero grooming.
• You want a running partner for long distances.

If you are looking for a joyful, affectionate, and charming little friend who will brighten every day, the Havanese is the perfect choice. They truly are bundles of Cuban sunshine.