The Havanese belongs to the AKC Toy Group and is a non-shedding, small dog that is not only gorgeous, but has an endearing personality that makes it a fine pet for both families with children and the elderly. Havanese are very affectionate lap dogs that are social and greet everyone with a friendly welcome. Due to their low exercise needs and adaptability, they also make wonderful pets for apartment and condo dwellers.
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Havanese Links:
Havanese Gifts
Havanese Rescue Groups
Havanese Club of America
Grooming: The non-shedding, soft, long coat of a Havanese needs regular daily brushing to keep them tangle-free.
Social Skills: This Toy dog gets along fine with other dogs and household pets.
Personality: Very devoted, playful, and affectionate. Gentle mannered, very loveable and friendly. Make good watchdogs.
Children: Very good with all ages of children.
Housing: Very adaptable. Ideal for apartment and condo living if walked daily. Excellent pets for the elderly.
Exercise: Low. Neighborhood walks are fine.
Training: Intelligent. Trains easily.
Health: Juvenile cataracts, progressive retinal artrophy. More information
on Havanese inherited health disorders.
History: The Havanese has an origin from Cuba and has been named their National dog for centuries. Bred exclusively
as companions and family pets of the wealthy and upper social class, there seem to be many theories as to their exact history. This rare breed is believed to have
descended from the old world Bichon-type dogs and is also considered closely related to the Bolognese and Maltese as well. When the Cuban Revolution began, the
Cubans that owned these dogs were the first to leave their country. Many dogs were left behind and the breed almost became extinct. It wasn't until the 1970's that
their gene pool was rebuilt by the few that made their way to this country.
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