Facts and History Concerning Havanese Dogs
A Look at the Havanese Breed Which Loves to Make Pet Owners Laugh
May 6, 2009
Havanese dogs are quickly rising in popularity according to AKC statistics. While the Havanese breed was virtually unknown only ten years ago, it ranked 55th in popularity in 2003, and shot up to 35th in 2008. The Havanese dog has a toy stature, sturdy build, gentle temperament, and easy going nature which all contribute to the breed’s new-found popularity.
Appearance of Havanese Dogs
The most noticeable feature of the Havanese breed is their thick, wavy coat. Although the hair appears extremely heavy, the texture is actually light and silky to the touch. And though Havanese dogs have an abundance of hair, the classic Havanese look is not sculpted or overdone. The overall appearance of the coat will suggest a mischievous, carefree look.
Havanese dogs have coats which exhibit a variety of colors and patterns. The havanese breed can be white, cream, gold, red, fawn, chocolate, silver, charcoal blue, black, and any shade between. Havanese dogs are often a combination of two or three of these colors. For example, a cream dog may have ears and feet of a darker buff or a black dog may have white tips on its tail and paws.
Several coloring patterns are common to the Havanese breed. Parti patterned dogs are primarily white with up to 50% of random markings in another color. Dogs with a pied pattern are mainly colored with white paws, legs, tip of tail, chest, and neck. Havanese dogs may also be primarily of one color with white, cream, or silver markings. Some Havanese are marked with tan, or silver points on the underside of their ears, cheeks, eyebrows, chest, muzzle, and legs. Dogs with sable patterns have hairs that are tipped in black. Brindle dogs often have a dark mask and hairs of different colors scattered throughout the coat lending the dog a mottled or striped look.
Havanese dogs wear a playful expression on their rounded face. Their nose and eyes are dark with the exception of dogs with chocolate coats. These dogs will have a liver nose and amber eyes.
Havanese dogs are classified as a toy breed but are remarkably sturdy. Havanese dogs meeting AKC standards measure between 8 ½ and 11 ½ inches in height. Their body is slightly longer than tall. The breed has a rear end that’s just a bit taller than the shoulders. This contributes to the dogs’ recognizably springy gait. When a Havanese is happy, their tail is curled over their back waving merrily like a flag.
Temperament of the Havanese Breed
Havanese dogs were bred to be companions. Because of their great desire to please their masters, they are easily trainable dogs. If their antics receive a chuckle once, they’re bound to try it over and over just to keep their owner laughing.
Within the Havanese breed are a variety of personalities. Some are on the go and great for playing, others just want to lie in their owner’s lap and take it easy.
Regardless of their energy level, all Havanese dogs have a deep need for frequent contact with their owners. This is not a breed owners can pat on the head then walk away. These dogs also may become destructive when left alone for long periods of time. The Havanese is not the right breed for someone hoping to crate a dog while they work.
Havanese dogs are an excellent choice for families. They get along with children well and are generally instant friends with any stranger. They also enjoy the company of a wide variety of animals. They are an easy going breed and extremely accepting of a wide variety of personalities, life styles, situations, and activities.
History of the Havanese Breed
Though the Havanese breed is enjoying recent serge of popularity and was only recognized by the AKC in 1996, its origins stretch back at least three hundred years to the colonial plantations of Havana Cuba. As Spanish aristocrats journeyed to the tropical island, they brought with them their lap dogs from home. Many believe the dogs they carried off the ships were of the Tenerife breed. These Tenerife dogs also originated such popular breeds as the Maltese and bichon fries.
The aristocrats bred their dogs to each other and eventually, a unique breed developed. After many years under the sultry Havana sun, Havanese dogs acquired their characteristic, silky coat which actually insulates their body from the heat.
Before adding a Havanese dog to the family, individuals should do their research carefully. Havanese dogs have specific care and grooming requirements. And since proper breeding for temperament and early socialization are key to ensuring the lovable personality associated with the breed, these puppies are best acquired from knowledgeable and reputable Havanese puppy breeders.
Information gained in conversation with Lynne Brinkley of Excalibur Farms May 1, 2009.
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