A Fluffy Toy Breed: A Guide to the Havanese
The Havanese is a popular toy breed known for its lively personality and long, silky coat. Though small, this breed is sociable and active with a penchant for learning tricks.
The National Dog of Cuba
Havana is the capital of Cuba and the namesake of the Havanese. These adorable pups are native to Cuba (the country’s only native breed) and its national dog, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The breed has been known by different names, like the Havana Silk Dog and Spanish Silk Poodle, according to The Havanese Club of America. The breed’s ancestors likely arrived in Cuba with colonists and flourished there before spreading to Europe and eventually North America.
Physical Characteristics
As a toy breed, Havanese are petite, weighing just seven to 13 pounds and stand less than a foot tall, according to the AKC. You can expect these spunky dogs to live 14 to 16 years.
Like many breeds, the coat is the most distinctive feature of the Havanese. Their long but light coat actually helps to protect them from the heat, according to The Havanese Club of America. The coat can be a single color our two-toned. Expect to see the Havanese in shades like white, black, cream, tan, fawn, gold, sable, silver, and red, according to The Spruce Pets.
While their coats are naturally long and flowing, owners take a few different approaches to grooming. Some are happy to put in the work of regular brushing to keep the coat smooth and free of tangles. Others opt for a shorter, lower-maintenance cut. You also have the option of cording the coat, a style the looks like human dreadlocks.
An Inquisitive Personality
Havanese are naturally curious and charming dogs. They love to learn new tricks and participate in activities like tracking and agility training. They are definitely extroverts in the dog world, thriving on companionship with their families and other dogs.
A Havanese at Home
The small size of the breed means they can happily live in an apartment or a house, but these gregarious dogs are not well suited to spending hours each day without company.
If you are interested in bringing a Havanese home, The Havanese Club of America has a breeder directory to help you start your search, and the HavaHeart Rescue serves the Midwest with a location in Missouri.
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