There are conflicting accounts as to the origin of this breed. 308 Recognized Breeds, by Fiorenzo Florone, notes that the Havanese is a descendant of the Italian Bolognese, which were taken by the Italians to Argentina, where they were crossed with a small South American Poodle. This created a new member of the Bichon family. However, Dechambre offers a different hypothesis. He contends that the Havanese is a descendant of the Maltese, brought to the West Indies by the Spaniards, who fondly referred to them as "The Havana Silk Dog".

 

Still other accounts claim that the breed originated in the Western Mediterranean area and that its ancestors travelled to Cuba during the Spanish Empire.

 

The Cubans seem to feel that these little dogs were introduced to their shores by Italian sea captains who presented them to the 'Senoras' as gifts, opening the doors of the wealthy homes to them.

 

The Havanese eventually found their way back to the continent, where they enjoyed great popularityand were recognized by the European Kennel Club. Sadly, the Havanese fell prey to the whims of popularity, and as a result, came dangerously close to extinction.

 

Fortunately, a few wealthy cuban familieswho escaped from Cuba during her perilous times, banded together to save their little breed from extinction.

 

The Havanese are considered one of the Bichon group, which consists of four types: The Bichon Maltiase (Maltese), the Bichon Bolognese (Bolognese), the Bichon Havanais (Havanese), and the Bichon Teneriffe (Bichone Frise).

 

 

 

The Havanese is truly one of the most delightful of the small breeds. They are remarkably intelligent and quick-witted. Obedience training is achieved with very little effort. Quick to learn and anxious to please, they are a charming, open-hearted breed with nothing mean or sly in their makeup.

 

The Havanese is truly a people oriented dog who loves children and does best as a participating member of the family.

 

A reliable watchdog, the Havanese will alert you when a visitor arrives but will take their cue from you and welcome the guest when all seems well with the master (or mistress). They are courageous and fearless in the face of danger.

 

They are nonshedding and odorless, and due to their lack of an undercoat, are hypoallergenic. Their coat ranges from a slight wave to curly. Color possibilities range from shades of white, cream, champagne, and gold to chocolate, silver, blue and black, or a combination of these.

 

The average weight of the adult ranges from about seven to thirteen pounds, with the female slightly smaller.

 

The Havanese are devoted to their families and are happiest when accepted as a full member.