 |
HAVANESE
Height: 8 -
12 in
Weight:
10 - 13 lbs
Life
Expectancy: 15 years plus |
CLICK HERE TO VIEW LITTERS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE |
| ORIGIN |
The
Havanese, which originated in Cuba in the 19th century, is believed
to have descended from the Bichon. Bichon lapdogs were
brought from Europe to Cuba in the 17th century. Adapting to
the climate and customs of Cuba, the Bichon eventually gave birth
to a smaller, silkier coated dog, named the Blanquito de la Habana.
In the 18th century, the Blanquito de la Haban enlivened the
homes of the aristocratic Cubans. During the 19th century,
the Cubans took a liking to the Poodle and crossed it with the
existing Blanquito to create today's Havanese. The old
Havanese strain in Cuba is now extinct. In the 1970's, a few
descendents of the Havanese were smuggled off the island to the
United States, where the breed was revived. Today, the
Havanese is one of the top 20 sought after dogs. |
| DESCRIPTION |
The
Havanese has a solid, sturdy body with strong legs, a tapering
muzzle, hanging ears and long tail carried over the
back. The breed gives a rugged impression in a little
dog. The profuse coat varies from wavy to
curly, comes in a variety of colors, including white, cream,
gold, silver, and black, and has a pearly sheen. Parti and
tricolours are also seen. The gait is lively and accentuates the
happy character of the Havanese. |
| TEMPERAMENT |
Cheerful
and sociable, the Havanese makes a good household pet. The
breed is very affectionate, gentle and responsive, and
inclined to become very attached to their human families.
They are also considered to be good with
children. Highly intelligent and curious,
they learn quickly and are easy to train. They are alert and
make a good watchdog, but can exhibit a degree of shyness around
strangers. |
| PREFERRED
LIVING ENVIRONMENT |
This breed
adapts well to living in a city environment. They are very active
indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
EXERCISE
AND
GROOMING |
The
Havanese does not require a lot of exercise but has the body
strength and stamina to actively enjoy long walks. Given the long
coat, thorough brushing and combing on a regular basis
is required. However, the coat can be clipped short for
easier care. There is little to no shedding, and as such, the
breed is considered good for allergy sufferers. Eyes and ears
should be checked regularly. |
| HEALTH
CONCERNS |
The
Havanese is generally considered a healthy, long-living
breed. |
|
