Havanese
Size
Giant
Life Expectancy
14-16 years
Trainability
★★★★☆
Energy
★★★☆☆
About the Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy toy breed known for its friendly disposition and charming personality. They typically weigh between 7 to 13 pounds and stand about 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder. The breed has a long, flowing double coat that is soft and silky, with colors ranging from white, cream, and gold to chocolate and black. Havanese are known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them excellent companions in various living situations. They are social dogs that thrive on human interaction and are generally good with children and other pets. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
History
The Havanese breed originated in Cuba and is descended from the ancient Bichon breed, particularly the Bichon Tenerife. They were favored by the Cuban aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. The breed was originally bred as a companion dog, often accompanying wealthy families and being pampered as a lap dog. They were also known as 'Havana Silk Dogs' due to their luxurious coats. The Havanese nearly faced extinction during the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s, but dedicated breeders in the United States helped revitalize the breed. Today, Havanese are recognized by various kennel clubs and are cherished as companion animals around the world.
Temperament
- affectionate
- intelligent
- playful
- sociable
- friendly
Breed Characteristics
Detailed Traits
Havaneses are excellent with children
Very social with other dogs
Highly trainable
Moderately energetic breed
Frequent barking tendency
Light shedding
Moderate grooming requirements
Havanese Care Guide
Daily Care
- Brush their coat daily to prevent matting.
- Bathe them as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks.
- Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
- Brush their teeth several times a week to maintain dental health.
- Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and weight.
Exercise Needs
- Take them on daily walks for at least 30 minutes.
- Engage in playtime activities like fetch or tug-of-war.
- Provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training sessions.
- Allow them to socialize with other dogs and people.
Health Considerations
- Be aware of potential eye issues such as cataracts.
- Monitor for hip dysplasia or patellar luxation.
- Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early.
- Keep an eye on their weight to prevent obesity-related problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of the Havanese dog?
Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are typically social, playful, and eager to please, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
How much grooming do Havanese dogs require?
Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Daily brushing is recommended, along with regular baths and professional grooming every few months.
Are Havanese dogs easy to train?
Havanese dogs are generally intelligent and eager to please, which can make training easier. However, they can also be a bit stubborn at times, so consistent and positive reinforcement methods work best.
What health concerns are associated with the Havanese breed?
Havanese dogs can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye problems such as cataracts. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health.
Are Havanese dogs suitable as family pets?
Yes, Havanese dogs are excellent family pets. They are good with children and other pets, and their playful, loving nature makes them a great addition to any household.
Fun Facts About Havaneses
The Havanese breed originated in Cuba and is a descendant of the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana, which was brought to the island by Spanish settlers.
Havanese dogs are known for their long, flowing double coat, which can come in a variety of colors, making them one of the most colorful breeds.
Despite their small size, Havanese dogs were bred as companion animals for the Cuban aristocracy in the 19th century, often accompanying their owners to social gatherings.
Havanese are known for their distinctive 'Havanese shuffle,' a playful and bouncy gait that showcases their lively and cheerful personality.
The breed is recognized for its intelligence and trainability, with many Havanese excelling in obedience and agility competitions, earning numerous titles.
Havanese dogs are known to be excellent therapy dogs, providing comfort and companionship to those in hospitals and nursing homes due to their gentle and affectionate nature.
One interesting behavior of the Havanese is their tendency to be vocal; they often alert their owners to any unusual noises or movements, making them good watchdogs despite their small size.
Havanese are known for their strong bonding with their families, often following their owners from room to room, showcasing their loyalty and attachment.
Diet and Nutrition
Havanese dogs require a balanced diet that includes high-quality protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. The amount of food should be based on their age, weight, and activity level. Generally, adult Havanese should be fed about 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.
Recommended Foods
- High-quality dry kibble formulated for small breeds
- Wet dog food with high protein content
- Commercial raw dog food options
- Homemade diets that include lean meats, vegetables, and grains
Foods to Avoid
- Chocolate
- Onions and garlic
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Avocado
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free products)
Special Considerations
Havanese dogs may have sensitivities to certain grains and artificial additives. It’s important to monitor for food allergies and consult with a veterinarian for personalized dietary advice.
Training Guide
Havanese dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Consistency is key, so establish a regular training schedule and practice in short sessions to maintain their attention.
Advanced Techniques
- Clicker training to reinforce desired behaviors
- Agility training to improve their physical coordination and focus
- Advanced obedience training for commands like heel and recall in distracting environments
- Trick training to keep their minds engaged and strengthen the bond with their owner
- Socialization training to expose them to various environments, people, and other animals
Common Challenges
- Stubbornness or selective listening, especially if they don’t see the value in the command
- Separation anxiety, which can lead to unwanted behaviors if not addressed during training
- Housebreaking difficulties if not established with a consistent routine
- Overexcitement or hyperactivity during play or training sessions
- Distractibility in new environments, requiring additional focus training
Grooming Guide
Havanese dogs have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their fur healthy. They should be brushed several times a week, bathed occasionally, and have their ears, nails, and teeth maintained as part of their grooming routine.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Brush the coat thoroughly to remove any tangles and mats, starting from the back and working towards the front.
- Step 2: Bathe the dog with a gentle dog shampoo, ensuring to rinse well to remove all soap.
- Step 3: Dry the coat with a towel or a blow dryer on a low setting, being careful not to burn the skin.
- Step 4: Trim any areas that need shaping, such as around the face, paws, and tail.
- Step 5: Clean the ears with a vet-recommended ear cleaner and check for any signs of infection.
- Step 6: Brush the teeth or use dental chews to maintain oral hygiene.
- Step 7: Trim the nails if they are long, being cautious not to cut the quick.
Required Tools
- Pin brush or slicker brush
- Dog shampoo
- Towels
- Blow dryer (optional)
- Scissors or clippers for trimming
- Ear cleaner
- Toothbrush and dog toothpaste
- Nail clippers or grinder