Havanese
Description
The Havanese is related to the Bichon Frise and may be referred to as the Bichon Havanese or as the Havana Silk Dog. Havanese is a happy, outgoing small dog whose temperament and trainability have made him an excellent candidate for obedience training. Havanese cannot miss what is going on around him, so you may find him sitting somewhere high. They can be quite vocal as they love the sound of their own voice.
Size of Male: Height: 8.5-11.5 inches Weight: 7-13 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 8.5-11.5 inches Weight: 7-13 pounds
Temperament
Havanese are natural companion dogs: gentle and responsive. Havanese become very attached to their human families and are excellent with children. Havanese are very affectionate and playful with a high degree of intelligence. These cheerful dogs are very sociable and will get along with everyone including people, dogs, cats and other pets. They are easy to obedience train and get along well with other dogs. The Havanese likes to sit up high on a chair to observe what is going on and they are very sensitive to the tone of your voice. Harsh words will only upset the dog and will achieve very little. The Havanese have a long reputation of being circus dogs, probably because it learns quickly and enjoys doing things for people. Few tend to bark a lot, as they can be taught not to do this. Havanese are good watch dogs – making sure to alert you when a visitor arrives, but will quickly welcome the guest once it sees you welcome them. Some dogs may exhibit a degree of shyness around strangers, but this is not characteristic of the breed. Havaneses live for your every word and gesture. They should be neither timid nor aggressive. They should show no cowardice, in spite of their size.
Living Conditions
The Havanese is good for apartment life. Havanese is 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.
Upkeep
Although energetic, the Havanese can have its exercise needs met with a short walk or a good play session. Havanese is not a dog that can live outside. Coat care entails brushing Havanese two to four times a week. This is a nonshedding dog, which means that loose hairs are caught in the outer hairs, tending to tangle, unless they are combed out.
Health
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: patellar luxation, Legg- Perthes Disease, Liver Disease, Heart disease