About Havanese

The Havanese is a cheerful, affectionate, and intelligent toy breed known for its silky coat, playful spirit, and strong attachment to its people. As the national dog of Cuba, the Havanese has a unique and charming history that sets it apart from other companion breeds.

Originally developed from the Bichon family of dogs, the Havanese was brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 1600s. Over time, the breed adapted to the island’s climate and lifestyle, becoming a favored lapdog of Cuban aristocracy. Its name comes from Havana, the capital city of Cuba, and the breed became known as the "Havana Silk Dog" for its fine, flowing coat. Despite their high-society origins, Havanese have always been deeply people-oriented, thriving as affectionate companions in homes rather than kennels.

The breed nearly vanished after the Cuban Revolution, but a small number of dogs brought to the United States by Cuban refugees helped revive it. Thanks to dedicated breeders, the Havanese gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1996 and has grown in popularity across the world.

Havanese dogs are small but sturdy, typically weighing 7–13 pounds. Their long, wavy coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and while it does require regular grooming, it's surprisingly low-shedding—making them a good choice for some allergy-sensitive households. Despite their glamorous appearance, they are spirited and agile, excelling in activities like agility, obedience, and therapy work.

What truly sets the Havanese apart is their temperament. They are known for being happy, gentle, and sociable with both people and other pets. They are often described as “velcro dogs” because of how closely they bond with their families. They love to follow their people from room to room and are eager to be part of every activity—whether it’s a walk in the park or a lazy day on the couch.

Thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please, Havanese are generally easy to train and adapt well to a variety of living situations, including apartments. They’re wonderful with children and thrive on positive human interaction, making them an ideal companion for families, singles, and seniors alike.

With their lively personality, expressive eyes, and endearing loyalty, the Havanese is truly a breed that wins hearts wherever it goes.

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Interested in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Havanese puppy, but still have unanswered questions? Get in touch with us, and we would be happy to answer your questions!