ABOUT HAVANESE
The Havanese belongs to the ancient Bichon family of small white dogs, with the Bichon Frise and Maltese being its likely common ancestors.
Seafaring merchants have traded these lively lapdogs worldwide since the earliest days of human civilization.
Throughout history and across various regions, small and clever dogs that served no practical purpose have been possessions that distinguished royals and aristocrats from lower social classes.
The Havanese, deriving its name from the capital city of Havana, served as the native lapdog for Cuba’s aristocrats and wealthy planters.
The breed achieved its greatest popularity in Havana.
According to various sources, Italian sea captains or the Spaniards, who colonized the New World in the 1600s are said to have brought the breed’s ancestors to the island nation.
History of Havanese
During its approximately 300 years of enjoying Cuban luxury, breeders refined it into today’s Havanese, possibly by incorporating Poodle crosses. It was originally known as the Blanquito de la Habana (Havana Silk Dog).
The pivotal moment in the breed’s history occurred in 1959 when the Communist takeover of Cuba took place.
Many affluent Cubans, fleeing Fidel Castro’s revolution, brought their small dogs to America. With the assistance of American enthusiasts, the refugees preserved and continued the Havanese breed. Today, discerning pet owners worldwide favor this breed.
The Havanese possesses distinctive features, such as a curled-over tail and a beautiful silky coat that comes in a variety of colors. Some owners opt for shorter grooming to facilitate easier care.
Havanese make ideal city dogs due to their small yet sturdy bodies, adaptable nature, and social skills. They are content in any location where they can capture the attention of both young and old admirers.
Havanese dogs are intelligent and easily trainable extroverts with the comedic instincts of natural-born clowns. They excel as natural tricksters and serve as excellent watchdogs who take their responsibilities seriously while typically limiting their barking
