Havanese

The Havanese is a charming, playful toy dog with an unusual springy gait and deeply loving personality. The national dog of Cuba, it is one of the few double-coated breeds to have a very soft and light silky outer coat, lending the breed the nickname of 'Havana Silk Dogs.'

Bred from the now extinct dog breeds of the Blanquito de la Habana (little white dog of Havana) and the Bichon Tenerife, the Havanese was brought from Spain to Cuba to serve as a lap dog to the aristocracy. Over time, the affectionate Havanese became more widespread over social classes as a watchdog, family companion, and even a herder of poultry on occasion.

Like most toy dogs, the Havanese are small but sprightly and require some form of daily exercise. They do not do well with solitary confinement and often grow attached to their owners to the point of following them everywhere, even to the bathroom. Quality dog collars with side release buckles for ease of release are advised, as the breed is very fast on its feet.

Though widely varied in coloration and pattern, Havanese should have a  black nose and black pigment around the eyes. Their silky double coated fur is high maintenance and though the fur is not dense, it mats easily and requires bi-weekly grooming. Suitably adapted to hot humid environments, the Havanese is not recommended for cold weather locations.

The Havanese breed lives from 14 to 16 years of age, and has few health issues relating to breed. Diseases and conditions to watch for are liver disease, heart disease, and cataracts. Sometimes their eyes tear excessively causing the development of brown stains on lighter coats, but it is not considered a health issue.

Because of its cheerful and adaptive nature, Havanese are suited to a variety of jobs other than personal companion. They make wonderful therapy animals, and have been taught to track for termites and mold. Havanese make popular signal dogs to assist the hearing impaired, but most of the time are just enjoyed as fun additions to family homes.