It became known as the dog of the aristocratic class of sugar barons of Cuba. Havanese The Real Cuban Breed. They will benefit from a brisk daily walk or a fun playtime with their owner in the backyard, as they are happiest when someone is with them. Founded in 1979, the Havanese Club of America is the official AKC Parent Club for the Havanese. The diminutive Maltese was once a popular trade commodity in his native Malta, while the Havanese charmed his way into the hearts of Cuban citizens, earning the title "National Dog of Cuba." The prosternum is evident but not prominent. Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word "sit"), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. The Havanese is the National Dog of Cuba and the country's only native breed. It’s often called the world’s longest ninety miles, that stretch of azure water known as the Florida Straits... for this is the National Dog of Cuba. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you're interested in. But because he's so small, he could easily get hurt by accident, so it's especially important to teach kids how to treat the dog. High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Affiliate Disclosure: Evolve Media LLC, and its owned and operated websites may receive a small commission from the proceeds of any product(s) sold through affiliate and direct partner links. While standing, a dropped tail is permissible. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Read the Official Breed Club Health Statement. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site (offa.org). Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Like all breeds, he needs to learn good canine manners. Wealthy Cuban families also pampered these small dogs as adorable pets. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training. The Havanese loves to watch the world from up high, and will find his way onto the backs of sofas and tables to watch the day pass by. And many hounds simply must follow their noses--or that bunny that just ran across the path--even if it means leaving you behind. If you're a neatnik, you'll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. Look for a. If you're buying a puppy, find a good breeder who will show you health clearances for both your puppy's parents. AKC Breeders of Merit. A lengthy walk or an active game of fetch each day will keep him happy. Pasterns are short, strong and flexible, very slightly sloping. Romping inside the home can also provide enough activity. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they'll take off after anything that catches their interest. You may be surprised by who's on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. In all times and places, small, clever dogs that did no useful work were among the possessions that set royals and aristocrats apart from lower social classes. These dogs do not do well left alone for long periods. Do you have neighbors nearby? But if you show your Havanese — or just want to look like you do — you'll have to keep it long, and should expect to do a lot of grooming. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they're too long. Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. The hind legs are muscular with moderate angulation. The tops of the shoulder blades lie in at the withers, allowing the neck to blend smoothly into the back. Maltese. The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog of immense charm. If you can't, he needs less food and more exercise. Owners can learn to groom their dogs, but it takes a dedicated person to keep this breed's coat in good shape. Puppy coat may be shorter and have a softer texture than adult coat. With them came their small companion dogs — the ancestors of what's now the Bichon family of dogs. The Havanese has a history that ties in with Christopher Columbus, who brought a similar dog to Cuba in 1492. Like every dog, the Havanese needs early socialization — exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences — when they're young. Hocks are well let down; pasterns are parallel from hock to foot. Trim nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally. Eye rims are solid black for all colors except for chocolate dogs which have solid brown eye rims. Thei… Dogs come in all sizes, from the world's smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they're compatible with you and your living space. The length from the foot to the elbow is equal to the length from elbow to withers. There are many Havanese in need of adoption and or fostering. Seniors can remain playful well into old age and have fewer demands than young dogs. Adding Bernie's Perfect Poop digestion support treats to your dog's routine can help your pet feel better and improve their overall health! Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period. Havanese (a bichon type dog) is the national dog of Cuba, developed from the now extinct Blanquito de la Habana ("little white dog of Havana"). The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1995. For more on feeding your Havanese, see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog. Not all Havanese will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed. The breed became trendy in Europe in the mid-1800s, and Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens were among his well-known fans at the time. All rights reserved. Ernest Hemingway fell under the Havanese spell during his 20 years in Cuba. We have plenty of opportunities to get involved in your local community thanks to AKC Breed Clubs located in every state and more than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups across the country. The Havanese should be fed a high-quality dog food appropriate to his age (puppy, adult, or senior). When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you'll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying. You'll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch. Don’t shop if you want to bring a dog home. During the days of the Spanish empire, Bichons traveled to Cuba with sea captains who used them as presents for the women of Cuban households. The Havanese coat is thick but silky, soft, and light, and it doesn't shed easily. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog. The feet have arched toes and point straight ahead. In general, it's wise to keep the hair above the eyes tied up to prevent irritation — it looks cute, too. Many owners clip the Havanese coat short to make it easier to care for. This length comes from the ribcage. 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