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. These delightful toy dogs pack enormous personality into their compact 3-7 kg frames, making them perfect for Australian families looking for 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. Their silky, flowing coats come in gorgeous colour combinations - from classic white and cream to rich tobacco and black - and 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
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.
Eye problems are among the most common concerns, particularly Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which gradually leads to vision loss and eventual blindness. This inherited condition typically starts with night blindness before progressing, so regular eye examinations by your vet are crucial. Another eye issue to watch for is cataracts, which can develop at various ages.
Orthopaedic issues include Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, where the hip joint's blood supply becomes compromised, causing pain and limping in young dogs under 18 months. Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation) is also relatively common, ranging from mild cases that cause occasional skipping to severe cases requiring surgical intervention. Joint supplements and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage these conditions.
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 - responsible breeders test for these conditions.
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 tick prevention, especially in areas like Queensland and northern New South Wales. Regular parasite prevention 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 and attention to these breed-specific concerns, 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 can reach 12-18 cm in length and requires significant commitment to keep it looking beautiful and tangle-free.
Daily brushing is absolutely essential - and we mean daily, not just when you remember. Use a gentle slicker brush 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, consider a "puppy cut" - a shorter trim that maintains their adorable appearance while dramatically reducing grooming time. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps them looking neat and helps prevent matting. Between visits, you'll still need to brush regularly, but it's much more manageable.
Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 3-4 weeks, using gentle dog-specific shampoos. Over-bathing can strip natural oils and cause skin irritation. Their coat actually provides excellent sun protection, which is particularly valuable in Australia's harsh UV conditions.
Pay special attention to their eyes - that beautiful facial hair can cause tear staining on lighter coats. Gently clean the eye area daily with a soft, damp cloth, and trim hair carefully to prevent eye irritation. Regular ear cleaning prevents infections, especially important in Australia's humid coastal areas.
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. Many dogs actually love the one-on-one time, making grooming a pleasant experience for both of you.
Havanese are delightfully intelligent and eager to please, making them surprisingly easy to train despite their small size. Their people-focused nature means they're highly motivated by praise and positive reinforcement - harsh corrections will only hurt their sensitive feelings and set back your progress.
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, markets, and busy parks once they're fully vaccinated. Their naturally sociable nature makes this process enjoyable, but proper socialisation prevents them from becoming overly clingy or anxious.
These little comedians excel at trick training and often become natural entertainers. They're particularly good at agility (in their size category), nose work, and obedience competitions. Many Australian dog sports clubs welcome smaller breeds, and Havanese often surprise people with their athletic abilities and enthusiasm.
Exercise needs are moderate but important. A brisk 30-minute walk daily, split between morning and evening, usually satisfies their needs. They love exploring different routes - try beach walks along the Gold Coast, park visits in Melbourne, or bushland trails in the Adelaide Hills. Indoor play can supplement outdoor exercise, especially during extreme weather.
Be careful not to over-exercise them, particularly in Australia's hot climate. If your Havanese is panting heavily or struggling to keep up, it's time to head home. Early morning or evening walks work best during summer months.
House training requires patience and consistency, as small bladders mean frequent toilet breaks. Crate training helps, but remember - Havanese hate being alone for long periods. They're much happier 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 these little dogs 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. They're particularly popular with retirees who have time to enjoy their playful, affectionate nature. Their moderate exercise needs suit people who enjoy regular walks but aren't marathon runners - perfect for leisurely strolls through Australian suburbs or beach walks along the coast.
You'll need patience and commitment for grooming. If you're not prepared for daily brushing or regular professional grooming costs, consider whether you're ready for a long-coated breed. Many Australian owners find the grooming routine relaxing, but it's a significant time commitment.
First-time dog owners often do well with Havanese because they're forgiving, intelligent, and eager to please. However, you must be prepared for consistent, positive training methods. These sensitive souls don't respond well to harsh corrections or raised voices.
Apartment dwellers in cities like Sydney or Melbourne will find Havanese adapt well to smaller spaces, provided they get adequate exercise and mental stimulation. They're generally quiet dogs but will bark to alert you of visitors - something to consider if you have close neighbours.
The ideal Havanese owner appreciates having a "shadow" who wants to be involved in daily activities. Whether you're gardening, watching TV, or working from home, expect your Havanese to be right there with you. If you prefer independent pets, this breed isn't for you. But 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
Interesting Fact
The Havanese is Cuba's national dog and the only breed native to the island nation, earning them the nickname "Havana Silk Dog" or "Spanish Silk Poodle"
Interesting Fact
Despite their luxurious appearance, their coat actually provides protection from heat and sun rather than warmth - a perfect adaptation to Cuba's tropical climate
Interesting Fact
The entire modern Havanese population outside Cuba descends from just 11 dogs that arrived in the United States during the 1970s
Interesting Fact
Famous historical owners included Queen Victoria, who had two Havanese, and literary giants Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway
FAQ
Expect to pay between $1,500-$3,000 for a Havanese puppy from a reputable breeder in Australia. Dogs with champion bloodlines may cost more. You might also find Havanese through rescue organisations, though they're quite rare. Always research breeders carefully and ensure health testing has been done on parent dogs.
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.