One of the sturdiest, smartest, and easiest to train of the Toy breed group, the Havanese is sweet, gentle, and demonstratively loving with all its family. Although best with older, considerate children, their high energy level when inside and playful nature make them a reasonable playmate for any youngster who knows how to treat a dog. They enjoy the company of almost any other animal be it canine or otherwise. And once they let you know a stranger is approaching, they are just as interested in becoming friends with them too. People-oriented, he is apt to ham it up to make sure they have their new found friend’s attention. Calm and easy to handle outside, their exercise needs are modest; a walk around the block is all they need. Easily kept in an apartment, they are a great choice for anyone who wants a small dog that isn’t fragile or yappy. But like most breeds in the toy group, many individuals are difficult to housebreak.

Although one of the largest breeds in the toy group, a Havanese is still a tiny dog. They stand between 8.5 and 11.5 inches tall and weigh 7 to 13 pounds. Their long coats are either straight, wavy (preferred), or curly and come in a myriad of colors that include white, cream, champagne, gold, silver, blue, chocolate, black, parti-color, as well as a number of others. They need brushing every other day to prevent matting. Some people have them clipped which eliminates this chore. When properly groomed, they shed very little. They do about as well in heat as most dogs, less well as the temperature cools; use a sweater when cold.

Well socialized dogs are curious, cheerful, and love everyone. They make attentive, responsive training partners. Eagerly willing workers, many excel in obedience and agility competition. Havanese are a wonderful choice for a novice owner provided they understand the dog’s grooming requirements unless they have rambunctious children.