The Havanese is the National Dog of Cuba where it is called the Bichon Habanero. There are a few theories regarding their history, and one is that the Havanese were taken to Cuba by the Spanish or Italian traders as gifts to wealthy ladies as a way of introduction.

When the revolution took place in Cuba and Fidel Castro took control a number of wealthy families fled to American taking their dogs with them.

The Havanese Today

Although the Havanese are classified as a Toy Dog they are not at all fragile and certainly enjoy a ‘rough and tumble’ and will intermix with larger breeds without any trouble. They are definitely a companion dog, very affectionate and very much a family dog.

There is one main health factor to be considered with the Havanese - inherited cataracts. It is part of the code of ethics of the Havanese Club of G.B. that all stock should be tested yearly. Any prospective buyers should check that the parents have current eye certificates. Most breeders will automatically give copies of the certificates.