Havaneses 101

Toy group

The Havanese is related to similar small breeds also developed as companions, notably the Bichon Frise and Maltese. The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese was once called the Banquito de Havana, a reference to the breed’s silky and, at the time, white coat. While other related breeds stuck primarily with white, the Havanese did not. Their long coats are difficult to maintain, so most are kept clipped short.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Havaneses

If you have a lap, you've got a friend.

A good match with older singles or couples and an ideal city dog, the diminutive Havanese may a little too fragile for families with small children or large dogs. Smart and eager to please, they’re easy to train and easier still to spoil. Early socialization and manners training will provide a foundation for a lifetime of good behavior.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
8.5 to 11.5 inches tall
Group Size Toy

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Mature adult Havanese

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

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Luxated patella

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Urinary bladder stones

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Dental disease

Senior Havanese

8+ years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

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Valvular heart disease

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Gallbladder disease

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Luxated patella

Havanese puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

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Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

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Gastritis

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Ear infection

Young adult Havanese

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

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Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

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Luxated patella

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Gastritis

Mature adult Havanese

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

risk-level-bar

Luxated patella

risk-level-bar

Urinary bladder stones

risk-level-bar

Dental disease

Senior Havanese

8+ years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Gallbladder disease

risk-level-bar

Luxated patella

Havanese puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

risk-level-bar

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

risk-level-bar

Gastritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Havanese

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Havanese conditions

risk-level-bar

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

risk-level-bar

Luxated patella

risk-level-bar

Gastritis

2-Havanese standing up GettyImages-1048497250

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Havanese dogs have a rich history dating back to the 16th century in Cuba. They were cherished by Cuban aristocracy and were often seen as symbols of luxury and refinement. Today, they continue to bring elegance and charm to households around the world.

Havanese coat care and colors

The Havanese has a coat that tangles easily without daily combing and brushing. For that reason, most of these small charmers are kept clipped short by a professional groomer. While that makes home coat care easier, it does make for cold dogs on winter days, so it’s best to have a sweater or two for warmth when needed. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Havanese exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

Smart and eager to please, Havanese love indoor play and games. They’re easily swooped into a carrier for outings, but let them use their legs – it’s better for them.

Class star

Trainability

The big reason for bad manners in little dogs: We let them get away with everything. Don’t neglect training a Havanese and you’ll have a delightful companion.

Havanese fun facts

Top girl names for Havaneses

Top boy names for Havaneses

Nationwide loves Havaneses of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Havaneses

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