Rare Dog Breeds: The Havanese

You might not have heard of the Havanese (also called the Havanese Silk Dog) before, but this is a breed that started in the 1500’s, soon after the Spanish claimed what is now Cuba. When the Spanish colonists came to the New World, they had to bring their dogs with them. And bring them they did – including their Bichons. Over the centuries, the Havanese, named after the Cuban city of Havana, developed their own characteristics and became the national dog of Cuba. Just as the European colonists eventually grew into a distinctly Cuban identity, so did their toy dogs. Their Bichons, Poodles and possibly the now-extinct Tenerife dog gradually turned into the Havanese that we would recognize today. They grew a double layered silky coat, black eye rims, nose and lips and several colors. They became the "It" dog for the Cuban bourgeoisie. But when the Cuban Revolution hit, the dogs were in as much trouble with the revolutionaries as their owners. They both had to flee for their lives. A Mrs. Goodale of Florida is credited for saving the breed from sure extinction by starting a stud in America with 11 dogs bought from relocated Cuban families. The Havanese settled in well to wherever they are bound, and America has been no exception. They only arrived in America in the 1970’s so there are not as many as for more well established breeds. They are recognized the American Rare Breeds Association and the American Kennel Club. The Havanese makes great apartment and family dogs with a perky and optimistic attitude. They can be quite playful and need a good romp at least once a day. They continue to be the companion dogs of choice for those families lucky enough to live with them.

 

 

After living with Havanese for many years, Fiona Kelly is considered one of the country's leading authorities on this rare breed. The Havanese was developed in Cuba from Toy dogs brought over with Spanish colonists. Part of the story behind the Havanese is that they love to be with people, wherever they travel, in and out of the show ring.