Bichon Habanero, Havanese Cuban Bichon, Bichon Havanais, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer
Overview
The Havanese is a small, sturdy, short-legged dog. Its unique gait is exceptionally lively and springy, accentuating the dog's happy nature. The coat is double, with both under and outer coat soft. The profuse outer coat is very long, reaching 6 to 8 inches in length, and ranges from straight to curly, with wavy preferred. The curly coat is allowed to cord. The expression is gentle.
Havanese have a quiet and gentle disposition, but enjoy rowdy play sessions. They are affectionate, preferring to be at their owner's side or in the same room, and will alert their owner to approaching strangers. They enjoy the company of other Havanese. They are intelligent, easy to train and attentive to their handler. Havanese have an alert, gentle expression produced by the combination of large dark eyes, dropped ears, long fur and an endearing habit of tilting their head when listening.
| Size | Small |
| Height | 8-11 inches (20-28 cm) |
| Weight | 7-13 pounds (3-6 kg) |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Colors | Black Blue Brown Gray Silver White |
| Origin | Cuba |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Havanese are good for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Havanese are born to live in your home, and not in a patio or a kennel, but at the same time, they require plenty of exercise. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
This playful little dog has an average demand for exercise. This breed needs to be taken on a daily walk. While walking be sure to make the dog heel on the lead. It is an instinct for a dog to migrate daily and to have a leader, and in their mind the leader leads the way. This is very important to raising a well-rounded, balanced pet. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: The Havanese is eager to please, but positive reinforcement works best. They are particularly sensitive to the tone of your voice. It was not uncommon for a time for Havanese dogs to appear in circus acts. This is attributed to their eagerness to please as well as their high level of intelligence. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Moderate Maintenance: The coat on the Havanese should be brushed/combed thoroughly at least twice a week. The Havanese is non-shedding and considered a good hypo allergenic dog. Excess hair around the pads of the feet should be clipped. |
| Shedding |
Minimal Shedding: The Havanese is referred to as a non-shedder, but all dogs shed at least a little bit. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |