Havanese
The Good
- Compact and beautiful
- No specific smell from coat
- Gets along well with other animals
- Loves children very much
- Extremely friendly
The Real
- Cannot tolerate loneliness
- Needs frequent coat care
- Sometimes can be lazy
- Sensitive and easily offended
- Rare and expensive breed
Gallery
Breed Overview
Meet the Havanese - Cuba's only native dog breed and quite possibly one of the most charming little companions you'll ever encounter. Packing an enormous personality into a compact 3-7 kg frame, these delightful toy dogs are perfect for Australian families seeking a loving, adaptable pet.
What makes Havanese special is their incredible people-focus. They're like furry shadows who genuinely want to be involved in everything you do, from morning coffee to evening Netflix sessions. A big plus for many is their silky, low-shedding coat, which comes in gorgeous colour combinations and makes them a great option for those with mild allergies. Their expressive dark eyes seem to sparkle with mischief and intelligence.
Originally bred as companions for Cuban aristocrats, these little dogs have retained their refined yet playful nature. They're brilliant with children, forming strong bonds that often last a lifetime. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for apartment living in places like Sydney or Melbourne, though they'll happily explore bigger backyards in Perth suburbs too.
Don't let their toy size fool you - Havanese are surprisingly robust and make excellent watchdogs. They'll alert you to visitors but aren't typically yappy like some small breeds. Their intelligence shines through in training, where they often surprise owners with their eagerness to learn tricks and commands. Whether you're a first-time dog owner or experienced with pets, the Havanese offers a perfect blend of companionship, entertainment, and unwavering loyalty that fits beautifully into the Australian lifestyle.
History
The Havanese story begins in the 16th century when Spanish colonists brought small companion dogs from the Canary Islands to Cuba. These ancestors, known as Bichon Tenerife, eventually evolved into the Blanquito de la Habana (little white dog from Havana), which became the foundation for today's Havanese breed.
During Cuba's colonial period, these charming little dogs became the darlings of Cuban high society. Their luxurious coats and delightful personalities made them perfect companions for wealthy families, and they were often seen accompanying their owners to social gatherings and elegant soirées. Interestingly, their long, silky coats weren't just for show - they provided excellent protection from Cuba's intense tropical sun, acting as natural insulation rather than causing overheating.
The breed's survival story is quite remarkable. During the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s, many affluent Cubans fled to the United States, and fortunately, some managed to bring their beloved Havanese with them. By the 1970s, however, the breed had nearly vanished - only eleven dogs formed the foundation of today's entire population outside Cuba.
American dog enthusiasts recognised the breed's special qualities and worked tirelessly to rebuild the population through careful breeding programs. The Havanese Club of America was established to preserve and promote these delightful dogs, and their efforts paid off spectacularly. Today, the Havanese is recognised by major kennel clubs worldwide and has become increasingly popular in countries like Australia, where their adaptable nature suits our diverse climates and lifestyles perfectly. Cuba now considers the Havanese their national treasure and official dog breed.
Traits & Characteristics
Havanese characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Havanese are generally healthy dogs with impressive longevity, often living 14-16 years with proper care. However, like all breeds, they're predisposed to certain health conditions that Australian owners should be aware of. Reputable ANKC breeders will screen for these issues, so always ask to see health clearances.
One of the main concerns is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an inherited eye condition that causes gradual vision loss. Regular vet check-ups are key to monitoring for this, as well as for cataracts, which can also develop.
Orthopaedic issues include Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, where the hip joint's blood supply is compromised, causing pain and limping in young dogs. Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation) is also relatively common, ranging from mild cases that cause occasional skipping to severe ones requiring surgery. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to minimise stress on their joints.
Heart murmurs occur in some Havanese and should be monitored regularly. Additionally, the breed can be prone to chondrodysplasia (a form of dwarfism) and, rarely, congenital deafness.
Dental disease is particularly common in small breeds like the Havanese. Their tiny mouths can lead to overcrowding and tartar buildup, making daily tooth brushing essential. Regular professional cleanings help prevent serious dental problems that could affect their overall health.
Australian owners should also be vigilant about paralysis tick prevention, especially in eastern coastal areas. Regular parasite control and annual vaccinations are essential. Choose a vet experienced with toy breeds, as their small size can make them more sensitive to medications and procedures. With proper preventive care, your Havanese can enjoy a long, healthy life.
Feeding a Havanese properly is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing obesity, which can exacerbate joint problems common in the breed. These little dogs have fast metabolisms and small stomachs, so they do best with two to three measured meals daily rather than free-feeding.
Choose high-quality commercial dog food that meets Australian standards and is appropriate for your dog's life stage. Puppies need specially formulated puppy food or "all life stages" varieties to support their rapid growth and development. Adult Havanese often benefit from dental-focused diets that help prevent the dental disease so common in small breeds. Senior dogs may need adjusted protein levels and joint-supporting nutrients.
Portion control is essential - these little dogs can easily become overweight, putting dangerous strain on their delicate joints. The exact amount depends on your dog's age, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're desexed. Your Australian vet can calculate specific caloric needs and recommend appropriate portion sizes. Generally, adult Havanese need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided between meals.
Be mindful of treats, which can quickly add up to significant calories in such small dogs. Use tiny training treats and remember that healthy options like small pieces of carrot or apple can be just as rewarding. Avoid feeding from your plate - human foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and foods high in fat can be dangerous for dogs.
Havanese can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids for coat and joint health, either through supplements or specially formulated foods. Fresh water should always be available. Due to their small size, Havanese puppies are particularly susceptible to hypoglycaemia, so maintaining regular feeding schedules is crucial. If you're switching foods, do so gradually over a week to avoid digestive upset.
The Havanese's gorgeous coat is both their crowning glory and their biggest grooming challenge. That silky, flowing hair requires significant commitment to keep it beautiful and tangle-free.
Daily brushing is absolutely essential - and we mean daily, not just when you remember. Use a gentle slicker or pin brush to work through the coat systematically, starting from the skin and working outward. A detangling spray can be your best friend for working through any knots without causing discomfort. Many Australian owners find that a few minutes of brushing while watching TV becomes a lovely bonding ritual.
If you're not planning to show your Havanese, a shorter "puppy cut" can dramatically reduce grooming time. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks (around $90-$130 AUD for a full clip and tidy) keeps them looking neat and helps prevent severe matting, especially during the humid summer months.
Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 3-4 weeks, using a gentle dog-specific shampoo. Their coat actually provides excellent sun protection, which is particularly valuable in Australia's harsh UV conditions.
Pay special attention to their eyes. Gently clean the area daily with a soft, damp cloth to prevent tear staining on lighter coats, and trim hair carefully to prevent eye irritation. Regular ear cleaning prevents infections, especially important in humid coastal areas like Brisbane or Sydney.
Don't forget nail trims every 2-3 weeks and daily teeth brushing to prevent dental disease. Start grooming routines early so your Havanese learns to enjoy the attention and one-on-one time.
Havanese are delightfully intelligent and eager to please, making them surprisingly easy to train. Their people-focused nature means they're highly motivated by praise and positive reinforcement - harsh corrections will only hurt their sensitive feelings.
Start socialisation early and keep it positive. Expose your Havanese puppy to various people, dogs, sounds, and environments around your Australian neighbourhood. Take them to pet-friendly cafes and parks once they're fully vaccinated. Proper socialisation prevents them from becoming overly clingy or anxious.
These little comedians excel at trick training and often become natural entertainers. They're great at agility, nose work, and obedience, with many Australian dog sports clubs welcoming smaller breeds.
Their exercise needs are moderate. A brisk 30-minute walk daily, split between morning and evening, usually satisfies them. They love exploring different routes - try beach walks, park visits, or local trails. Be careful not to over-exercise them, particularly in Australia's heat. In cities like Perth or Brisbane where summer days can exceed 30°C, it's best to stick to early morning or evening walks to prevent heatstroke.
House training requires patience, as small bladders mean frequent toilet breaks. Crate training helps, but remember - Havanese hate being alone for long periods. They are happiest when included in family activities and can develop separation anxiety if left isolated too often.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Havanese owner understands that this breed thrives on companionship and isn't suited to people who are away from home for long hours. If you work full-time, you'll need arrangements for midday visits or doggy daycare, as they can develop separation anxiety when left alone too long.
Havanese are fantastic for families with children, elderly couples, or singles who want a devoted companion. Their moderate exercise needs suit people who enjoy regular walks but aren't marathon runners - perfect for leisurely strolls through Australian suburbs.
You'll need patience and commitment for grooming. If you're not prepared for daily brushing or regular professional grooming costs, this long-coated breed might not be for you. Many owners find the routine relaxing, but it's a significant time commitment.
First-time dog owners often do well with Havanese because they're intelligent and eager to please. However, you must use consistent, positive training methods, as these sensitive souls don't respond well to harsh corrections.
Apartment dwellers in cities like Sydney or Melbourne will find Havanese adapt well to smaller spaces. As they are well under the 10-15 kg weight limits common in many body corporate by-laws, they are an excellent choice for high-density living. They're generally quiet but will bark to alert you of visitors, so consider your neighbours.
The ideal owner appreciates having a "shadow" who wants to be involved in daily life. If you want a loyal, loving companion who'll greet you like a long-lost friend every day, the Havanese might be your perfect match.
Interesting facts about the Havanese
Cuba's National Dog
The Havanese is Cuba's national dog and the only breed native to the island nation, earning them the nickname 'Havana Silk Dog' for their famously soft coat.
Nature's Sunscreen
Despite their luxurious appearance, their coat actually provides protection from heat and sun rather than just warmth—a perfect adaptation to Cuba's tropical climate.
The Resilient Eleven
The entire modern Havanese population outside Cuba descends from just 11 dogs that were brought to the United States by refugees during the 1970s.
Royal & Literary Fans
Famous historical owners included Queen Victoria, who had two Havanese, and literary giants Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway, who were also fond of the breed.
FAQ
Expect to pay between $3,500 and $5,000 AUD for a Havanese puppy from a reputable, registered breeder in Australia. Dogs with champion bloodlines may cost more. This price reflects health testing on parent dogs and proper puppy care. Be cautious of prices significantly lower than this, as they may indicate a lack of proper breeding standards.
Havanese produce less dander than many breeds and are often better tolerated by people with mild allergies, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens in their saliva and urine. If you have allergies, spend time with the breed before committing to ensure you can tolerate them comfortably.
Absolutely! Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment dogs, particularly in Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne. They're generally quiet and adapt well to smaller spaces as long as they get daily walks and plenty of attention from their owners.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangles in their long coat. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain their appearance. Many Australian owners opt for shorter "puppy cuts" to reduce daily maintenance while keeping their dogs comfortable in our climate.
Havanese are naturally alert and will bark to announce visitors, but they're not typically excessive barkers like some toy breeds. Proper training from puppyhood helps manage their barking behaviour, making them suitable for suburban Australian neighbourhoods with close neighbours.
About 30 minutes of daily exercise is usually sufficient, split between walks and play time. They enjoy exploring different environments but can overheat in Australia's hot climate, so early morning or evening walks work best during summer months.