Breeds in the Toy Group of Dogs

Havanese

The Havanese is another member of the Bichon family, also known as the Bichon Habanero. This rare breed is an offshoot from the Bichon Tenerife who was taken to Cuba by Spanish colonists and became a favourite with  the wealthy settlers.  However, with the arrival of communism many of the wealthy families left with their dogs and now the dog known in Cuba as the Bichon Habanero and regarded as the national dog is quite rare.

The Havanese is a sturdy little dog, lively and good with older children who show consideration for his small size and happy to participate in their games.  He measures between 9 - 11" and weighs up to 6kg.   Another name he has been given is the Havana Silk Dog which describes his coat which is soft, silky, profuse and wavy with a plumed tail curling over his back.  It  should not be trimmed and left quite natural though it is a coat that requires daily care to keep it looking tidy.  All colours are permissible with nose and lips solid black except in brown shades where brown is acceptable.

Click here to read the Havanese Breed Standard. 

Havanese Breed Clubs

The Havanese Club of Great Britain

Havanese Rescue and Rehoming

Contact the Breed Club. They should be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Havanese, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

Havanese Breeders

• Rothermere Oxfordshire. Phone Gaynor Morris on 01235 751349 or email
• Chazard 
• Cubanitas 
• Heronsbridge 
• Jaybode 

If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions.  If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase.