Havanese

Also known as the Havana silk dog, the Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and its only native breed. It has evolved over the centuries in its tropical island home, creating a unique coat that protects against heat while remaining soft and light. They belong to the Bichon (“fleecy dog” in French) family of dogs.

Appearance

Its characteristic coat is double: soft and light throughout without coarseness normally associated with double coats. The coat can be a number of colors, including black, brown, white, gold, gray, or a mixture of colors. The Havanese needs to be brushed occasionally and clipped every few months. Its tail tends to arc forward over the back and resting on the side. It stands about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weights between 7 to 13 pounds.

Personality

Havanese are notably brave, almost never displaying cowardice. They can make capable watchdogs. Coupled with their curious nature, the Havanese serve as reliable alarms. They love attention, and can become a bit vocal to acquire it. They are well-mannered with other pets, children, and owners alike and prefer gentle coercion.

History

The Havanese, like others from the Bichon family of dogs, originated in the Mediterranean in ancient times. Spanish traders strengthened their trade ties to Cuba by gifting these dogs to Cuban women. Despite being popular in the families of the elite, the dogs eventually served primarily in entertainment only, featured extensively in circuses. At one point, the Havanese were threatened with extinction. Luckily, their popularity rose once more in the early 1960s and became recognized in the toy group by the American Kennel Club™ as of 1999.

Care

Although energetic, the Havanese can meet its exercise needs with a short walk or indoor play. They require frequent brushing to prevent tangling: two to four sessions a week should be appropriate. Shedding is minimal, but periodic baths are recommended. They are eager to learn and intelligent; they do well in obedience training and agility.

Health

Havanese may develop behavior problems if not socialized properly, especially if left alone for extended periods of time. They do not have any major health concerns, but patellar luxation is a potential problem. There have also been reported cases of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in the breed as well as cataract, so it is suggested that their knees and eyes be tested.

Conditions Summary

• Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy:a degeneration of the canine retina which can lead to blindness.
• Cataract: a disruption of the normal arrangement of lens fibers in the eye that leads to transparency reduction – causes reduced vision.

 

References

The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Havaneses: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the English Toy Spaniel Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog. 

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Havanese." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds. 

"American Kennel Club - Havanese." American Kennel Club - Akc.org. 

"Choosing a Havanese." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information.  

"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Progressive Retinal Atrophy/Degeneration in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Cataracts in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.