Havanese Breed Guide
Also known as: Bichon Havanais, Havana Silk Dog
Cuba's only native breed, Havanese are cheerful little companions whose silky coats and outgoing personalities bring tropical sunshine to any household.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy
Weight
3-7 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Toy
Weight
3-7 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Havaneses
The Havanese originated in Cuba, where they were bred as companions for the Cuban aristocracy. These small dogs are the national dog of Cuba and were nearly extinct following the Cuban Revolution before being revived through breeding programmes in the United States.
Havanese are small dogs with long, silky double coats in various colours including white, cream, gold, silver, blue, and black. They're known for their expressive dark eyes and their lively, outgoing personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, trainable, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and other pets, adapting well to various living situations. They require moderate exercise and are generally content with daily walks and playtime. Their coats need regular brushing to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Havaneses
Expert advice on keeping your Havanese healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Havanese requires careful attention to both quality and quantity. These charming companions thrive on a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, which support their muscle maintenance and overall vitality. Their small stature demands appropriately sized kibble or food pieces that promote proper chewing and digestion while helping maintain dental health.
When selecting food for your Havanese, prioritise nutrient-dense options over calorie-heavy meals. These dogs can be prone to weight gain, making portion control essential. Regular weight monitoring and body condition assessments help ensure they maintain a healthy physique. Consider incorporating whole food ingredients while limiting processed, starchy carbohydrates that may burden their digestive system.
Establishing consistent feeding schedules and measuring portions precisely helps prevent overfeeding. Split daily food allowances into two or three smaller meals to maintain steady energy levels throughout the day. Fresh, clean water should always be available, though monitoring intake around mealtimes can help prevent digestive issues.
How healthy is your Havanese?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Havaneses from our community of pet parents
Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They're sociable animals that love to be around people and other pets. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They are also known for their playful and sometimes clownish behaviour, which can provide endless entertainment for their owners. However, they can be a bit sensitive and don't respond well to harsh treatment or training methods. Positive reinforcement works best with this breed.
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