The History, Characteristics, And Needs Of Havanese Dogs

Over the years, Havanese dogs have gained a lot of popularity. People love their cuddly size, long and silky hair, and their lovely expressive eyes. The dogs have earned the nickname "Velcro dog" since the Cuban aristocracy bred them to be friends. They also stick closely to the owner's side. They can be found in shelters and rescues, although they are mainly purebred. Therefore if for those who want to adopt one, they shouldn't hesitate to take one home. Despite many people seeing it as a small pooch only fit to be a lap dog, the Havanese dog can still be trained and they're energetic. They've done exceptionally well in dog sports, helping people who are disabled, and performing in a circus. The dogs adore humans, and they don't do so well with being left alone without their owners. It should always be ensured that the little pooch has someone to spend time with and the dog will become like a furry family member.

Breed Characteristics

The Havanese dog expresses its affectionate personality to everyone, including children, other dogs, and strangers. However, their family gets most of their love and it always sticks to the owner's side. The bad thing about that is it gets really anxious when it's left alone. Therefore it's wise to have it as a house dog. It's not a happy dog if it's left in the backyard or away from his family.

The dog is very intelligent as well. It thrives on making those around it laugh with its goofy antics. It also enjoys just sitting on people's laps. The dog's temperament is influenced by many factors, including socialization, heredity, and training. The ones with friendly temperaments are playful and curious; they can approach people and even be held by them.

The Velcro personality doesn't come as a surprise since it was bred to keep wealthy families company in Cuba island. Since the Havanese dog has strived to prove that he can do better than just warm laps, they're very trainable, and they've worked as assistance and therapy dogs. They sniff out mold and termites, plus they've also been showing off their funny antics by being performing dogs.

Although this is common with different breeds and outgrow it, the Havanese puppies tend to eat their own stool. They thrive and do well in all types of houses, be it an apartment or a home with a large backyard. It will bark if it hears strange noises around the house or sees a stranger passing. The good thing is it doesn't bark unnecessarily. The Havanese dog loves to view the world from a high place, and therefore, it mostly finds its way onto the backs of tables and sofas to watch the day pass by. Paper is the favorite toy, and it can intelligently go out of its way to find it. It's a special treat for it if it gets toilet paper to shred for hours.

Needs of Havanese Dogs

The following are some of the needs that Havanese dogs have:

• Although they're small, the Havanese is a very energetic breed. It will stay happy if it gets long walks or if it's made to participate in a game of fetch.
• It's very easy to train; therefore, it requires puppy classes for them to grasp basic obedience and crate training.
• Owners should ensure it isn't left alone for a long time. If it's left, it should be inside a crate with toys to keep it busy.
• The recommended daily amount of high-quality dry food is ½ a cup to one, then split into two meals daily. It's important to note the amount of food the dog eats is determined by size, age, activity level, build, and metabolism.
• The thick, soft, silky, and light coat of the Havanese doesn't easily shed, and it needs brushing daily. The owner or a professional groomer can groom it.

History of the Havanese

Spanish settlers went into Cuba in 1492, and they went with Bichon dogs. The dogs interbred and later developed into the Havanese breed. Their signature coat protected them from the tropical sun. They then gained popularity in the Cuban aristocratic families in the 1800s. During the Cuban Revolution in 1959, their owners carried 11 Havanese dogs to the United States. They became the ancestors of the Havanese dogs outside of Cuba. The breed renaissance began in the 1970s.