Havanese

Historical Context and Development

The Havanese, a breed of ancient lineage, traces its roots to the Western Mediterranean, specifically the coastal regions of Spain and Italy. Ancestors of the breed were brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers, where they were further refined in isolation, eventually becoming the national dog of Cuba. These small, sturdy companions were highly prized by the Cuban aristocracy, serving as lapdogs and household guardians. Throughout the centuries, the breed maintained its distinct characteristics, largely untouched by the cross-breeding that affected many other European toy breeds. Today, the breed is strictly governed by exhibition standards that emphasize its unique, springy gait and silky coat texture.

The preservation of the breed has been a collaborative effort among official kennel clubs worldwide, ensuring that the temperament remains affectionate, intelligent, and alert. Unlike many other toy breeds, the Havanese possesses a robust constitution, making them excellent candidates for various training centers where they excel in agility and obedience. Their history is one of resilience, having survived the political upheavals of the 20th century when the breed was nearly lost, only to be revived by dedicated enthusiasts who meticulously documented their bloodlines to ensure genetic diversity and adherence to the breed type.

Anatomical Specifications

• General Appearance: A sturdy, small dog with a long, silky coat, possessing a lively and intelligent expression.
• Head: The skull is flat to slightly rounded, with a moderate stop and a muzzle that tapers slightly toward the nose.
• Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, and dark brown, conveying a gentle and inquisitive nature that is often noted by show judges during evaluation.
• Coat: The undercoat is light or absent, while the topcoat is long, soft, and either flat or wavy, sometimes forming curly locks.
• Movement: The gait is notably light and springy, a hallmark feature frequently observed during dog shows, demonstrating the breed's natural athleticism and joy.
• Size: The ideal height at the withers ranges between 23 and 27 cm, with a tolerance of 21 to 29 cm.

• The Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba.
• They are often referred to as 'Velcro dogs' due to their intense desire to be near their owners at all times.
• Despite their long, luxurious hair, they are considered a low-shedding breed.
• They were once known as the 'Havana Silk Dog' due to the texture of their coat.
• The breed was a favorite of Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens.
• They are highly trainable and have been used as circus performers in the past.