Bichon Havanais
Breed Description

The Bichon Havanais is known by several different names around the world, reflecting its rich international heritage and widespread appeal. Most commonly, this breed is simply called the Havanese, which is the name most widely recognized in English-speaking countries. In its native Cuba, the breed was historically known as "Blanquito de la Habana" (Little White Dog of Havana), though this name specifically referred to the white variety that was popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries.

Other names for this delightful breed include the Havana Silk Dog, which was used particularly in the United States during the breed's revival period in the 1970s. This name emphasized the breed's Cuban origins and its distinctive silky coat texture. In Spanish-speaking regions, you may hear the breed referred to as "Perro de Seda de La Habana" (Silk Dog of Havana) or simply "Habanero."

The formal name "Bichon Havanais" is used in many international kennel clubs and reflects the breed's membership in the broader Bichon family of dogs, which includes breeds like the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Coton de Tulear. Some breed enthusiasts and historians also use the name "Spanish Silk Poodle," referencing both the breed's early Spanish connections and its poodle-like coat characteristics, though this name is less commonly used today.

The Bichon Havanais is a small, sturdy toy breed that captures hearts with its cheerful demeanor and flowing, silky coat. These compact companions typically stand between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 7 and 13 pounds, making them perfect lap dogs while still being robust enough for active play. Their rectangular body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating an elegant silhouette that moves with a distinctive springy gait that seems to bounce with joy.

The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly its double coat, which consists of a soft, insulating undercoat and a longer, silky outer coat that can be straight, wavy, or curly. The coat comes in virtually every color and combination, including cream, gold, white, black, blue, silver, chocolate, and many parti-color combinations. The coat should feel soft and luxurious to the touch, never coarse or brittle. While some owners keep their Bichon Havanais in a shorter puppy cut for easier maintenance, the full natural coat flowing in the breeze creates a truly spectacular sight.

The Bichon Havanais possesses a distinctive head shape with a broad skull that is slightly rounded. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes sparkle with intelligence and mischief, giving them an almost human-like expression that many owners find irresistible. The ears are set high and drop down, framing the face beautifully and often decorated with long, silky feathering. Their black nose and full, dark pigmentation around the eyes create a pleasing contrast against lighter colored coats.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard describes the Bichon Havanais as a small, sturdy dog with a rectangular outline, slightly longer than tall. The height ranges from 8.5 to 11.5 inches, with both dogs and bitches weighing between 7 to 13 pounds. The gait should be unique with a springy step that gives a happy, carefree impression. The coat is double, with a soft undercoat and longer outer coat that can be straight, wavy, or curly, never coarse or thick. All colors and color combinations are permissible. The eyes should be dark brown and almond-shaped, never round. The ears are set high, dropping and forming a gentle fold. The temperament should be friendly, responsive, and alert. The tail is plumed and carried over the back in a curve, never docked.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard places the Bichon Havanais in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and related breeds). The ideal height is 23-27 cm (approximately 9-10.5 inches) with a tolerance of +/- 1 cm, and weight ranges from 3-7.5 kg (6.6-16.5 pounds), slightly broader than the AKC range. The FCI emphasizes the breed's Cuban origin and describes the movement as particularly elastic with a free and easy gait. The coat description is similar to the AKC but notes that the hair may form light curls. The FCI standard specifically mentions that the breed should display a lively, friendly nature and describes the characteristic tail carriage as forming a shepherd's crook. Eyes should be as dark as possible, and the expression should be gentle and intelligent.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard recognizes the Bichon Havanais as a Companion Breed and emphasizes the breed's role as a companion dog above all other functions. The UKC standard follows similar size guidelines to the AKC but places stronger emphasis on the breed's temperament as outgoing, alert, friendly, and intelligent. The standard notes that the breed should be neither aggressive nor overly shy. The UKC description of the coat mentions that it provides protection from tropical sun and heat, which explains its insulating properties. The movement is described as having a unique springy quality, almost floating appearance. The UKC standard also notes that the breed's expression should be soft, intelligent, and mischievous, capturing the breed's playful nature.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club follows standards very similar to the AKC, with identical size and weight requirements. The Kennel Club (UK) recognizes the breed in the Toy Group and has similar standards with slight variations in wording. The Australian National Kennel Council also follows similar guidelines. Many breed-specific organizations worldwide have developed their own standards, but most follow the basic framework established by the major international kennel clubs. Some regional variations exist in acceptable colors and slight size variations, but the fundamental breed characteristics remain consistent across all major organizations. The breed is also recognized by numerous smaller kennel clubs and registries, particularly in countries with significant Cuban diaspora populations.

The fascinating history of the Bichon Havanais begins in the Mediterranean region, where small white dogs were favored by ancient civilizations. These early ancestors likely included dogs similar to the modern Maltese and other Bichon-type breeds. Spanish traders and colonists brought these small companion dogs to the Caribbean in the 15th and 16th centuries, where they began to develop into a distinct breed adapted to the tropical climate of Cuba.

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, the breed became incredibly popular among the Cuban aristocracy and wealthy Spanish colonists. The breed was particularly favored in Havana, from which it derives its name. Cuban families treasured these dogs as both companions and status symbols, and the breed developed distinctive characteristics that set it apart from its European cousins. The warm climate influenced the development of their coat, which became lighter and more flowing than their cold-weather ancestors.

The breed's golden age in Cuba lasted through the 19th century, but political upheavals in the 20th century dramatically affected the breed's future. The Cuban Revolution of 1959 led to the exodus of many wealthy Cuban families, some of whom brought their beloved dogs with them to the United States. However, many Bichon Havanais were left behind, and the breed faced near extinction in its homeland. By the 1960s, the breed was extremely rare both in Cuba and internationally.

The breed's salvation came through the efforts of a few dedicated individuals in the United States. In the 1970s, Dorothy Goodale and other enthusiasts began working to revive the breed using the few remaining dogs that had been brought from Cuba. These foundation dogs, numbering only about eleven individuals, became the basis for the modern Bichon Havanais population outside of Cuba. Through careful breeding programs and international cooperation, the breed was slowly rebuilt.

The breed gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1996, marking a significant milestone in its recovery. Today, while still relatively rare compared to many breeds, the Bichon Havanais has established populations in many countries around the world. Interestingly, the breed has also experienced a revival in Cuba in recent years, with renewed interest from Cuban dog enthusiasts working to rebuild their national breed. The modern Bichon Havanais represents a remarkable success story of breed preservation and international cooperation in canine conservation.

The primary function of the Bichon Havanais has always been that of a companion dog, and this remains true today. Unlike many breeds that were developed for specific working purposes such as hunting, herding, or guarding, the Bichon Havanais was bred specifically to provide companionship to humans. This fundamental purpose has shaped every aspect of the breed's development, from their size and temperament to their social needs and behavioral characteristics.

In their historical context in Cuba, Bichon Havanais served multiple companion roles within wealthy households. They were parlor dogs that provided entertainment and companionship to family members, particularly women and children who spent considerable time in domestic settings. Their small size made them perfect lap dogs, while their intelligence and trainability allowed them to learn tricks and behaviors that delighted their owners. They also served as living heating pads in the days before modern climate control, providing warmth and comfort during cooler evenings.

Modern Bichon Havanais continue to excel in their traditional companion role, but they have also found success in several contemporary functions. Many serve as therapy dogs in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers, where their gentle nature and intuitive understanding of human emotions make them particularly effective. Their small size allows them to work in confined spaces, and their hypoallergenic coat makes them suitable for environments where allergies might be a concern.

The breed has also proven successful in various dog sports and activities. Despite their small size, many Bichon Havanais excel in agility competitions, where their intelligence, trainability, and natural athleticism serve them well. They also participate in obedience trials, rally competitions, and even some tracking events. Their eager-to-please attitude and strong bond with their handlers make them enjoyable training partners for owners interested in canine sports.

Perhaps most importantly, the modern Bichon Havanais continues to fulfill its primary function as a family companion. They adapt well to various living situations, from urban apartments to suburban homes, and integrate seamlessly into family life. Their role often includes being a children's companion, a comfort for elderly family members, and a social facilitator for their owners. Many owners find that their Bichon Havanais helps them meet other dog lovers and creates opportunities for social interaction in their communities.

The Bichon Havanais displays a remarkable combination of intelligence, sensitivity, and social awareness that makes them exceptional companions. Their behavior is characterized by an intense desire to be close to their human family members, often described as "velcro dogs" because of their tendency to follow their owners from room to room. This behavior stems from their breeding as companion dogs and their natural pack instinct, which has been refined over centuries to focus primarily on human rather than canine social structures.

Intelligence manifests in multiple ways in the Bichon Havanais. They are quick learners who readily understand routine and household rules, often anticipating their owner's needs and schedules. Many owners report that their dogs seem to understand complex conversations and respond appropriately to subtle emotional cues. This emotional intelligence makes them excellent reading companions for children and intuitive comfort providers for adults experiencing stress or sadness.

The breed exhibits natural curiosity and alertness, making them excellent watchdogs despite their small size. They will bark to alert their families to visitors or unusual sounds, but they are not typically aggressive or territorial in the way that guard breeds might be. Instead, their protective behavior manifests as vigilant observation and vocal alerts, followed by friendly acceptance once their owners indicate that visitors are welcome.

Socially, Bichon Havanais are generally outgoing and friendly, though individual personalities can vary from extroverted and immediately friendly to more reserved and requiring time to warm up to new people. They typically enjoy meeting new people and dogs when properly socialized, and many become social butterflies who actively seek attention and interaction from strangers during walks or outings.

One distinctive behavioral characteristic is their playful nature, which often persists well into their senior years. They maintain a puppy-like enthusiasm for games, toys, and interactive activities throughout their lives. This playfulness, combined with their intelligence, means they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behavioral issues. Without adequate mental engagement, they may develop habits like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or attention-seeking behaviors.

The breed also demonstrates remarkable adaptability in their behavior. They can be active and energetic when the situation calls for it, yet equally content to settle down for quiet time when their families are relaxing. This behavioral flexibility makes them suitable for a wide range of lifestyles, from active families who enjoy outdoor adventures to more sedentary households where they serve primarily as lap dogs and companions.

The Bichon Havanais integrates into family life with remarkable ease and adaptability, often becoming the heart of household social dynamics. These dogs have an innate understanding of family hierarchies and relationships, and they typically develop unique bonds with each family member while maintaining loyalty to the family unit as a whole. Their ability to read and respond to individual family members' moods and needs makes them exceptional family companions.

With children, Bichon Havanais demonstrate exceptional patience and gentleness, though their small size requires supervision during interactions with very young children who might accidentally injure them through rough play. They often become devoted playmates for school-age children, engaging in games, learning tricks, and providing comfort during difficult times. Many families report that their Bichon Havanais seems to understand when children are upset or stressed and will seek them out to provide comfort.

The breed's relationship with adults varies based on the family structure and individual personalities. In single-person households, they often develop an intensely close bond with their owner, sometimes to the point where separation anxiety can become an issue if not properly managed. In multi-adult households, they typically divide their attention among family members, often developing special relationships based on who provides care, training, or specific types of interaction.

Senior family members often find Bichon Havanais to be ideal companions due to their gentle nature, moderate exercise requirements, and intuitive understanding of human limitations. They seem to naturally adjust their energy levels to match those of elderly owners, providing companionship without being overly demanding. Their small size makes them manageable for seniors who might struggle with larger dogs, while their intelligence and trainability make them responsive to the needs of older adults.

In households with other pets, Bichon Havanais generally integrate well when properly introduced and socialized. They typically get along well with other dogs, particularly those of similar size, and can coexist peacefully with cats when raised together or introduced gradually. Their non-aggressive nature and social intelligence help them navigate multi-pet households successfully, though they may attempt to establish themselves as the center of attention.

The breed's role in family dynamics often extends beyond simple companionship. Many families find that their Bichon Havanais becomes a social catalyst, bringing family members together for activities like walks, training sessions, or simply spending time together while caring for and enjoying their pet. They often serve as conversation starters and stress relievers, helping to create a more relaxed and joyful home environment. Their presence can help establish routines and responsibilities that benefit the entire family, particularly in teaching children about consistent care and empathy for animals.

The Bichon Havanais is generally considered a healthy breed with a relatively long lifespan of 14 to 16 years, though like all purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions. The breed's recovery from near extinction in the 1970s created a genetic bottleneck that affects the modern population, making responsible breeding practices and health testing particularly important for maintaining and improving the breed's overall health.

Responsible breeders actively screen their breeding stock for hereditary conditions and work to produce the healthiest possible puppies. Prospective owners should always ask breeders about health testing and should expect to see documentation of clearances for breeding dogs. The relatively small gene pool of the modern Bichon Havanais makes genetic diversity a ongoing concern, and ethical breeders work together to maintain the breed's health while preserving its distinctive characteristics.

Despite potential genetic concerns, many Bichon Havanais live long, healthy lives with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. Their small size can actually be advantageous for longevity, as smaller dogs typically live longer than larger breeds. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and maintaining appropriate weight are crucial factors in ensuring optimal health throughout their lives.

Preventive care for Bichon Havanais should include regular dental care, as small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems. Daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and regular professional cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. Their long coat also requires regular grooming to prevent matting and skin problems, and their eyes should be kept clean to prevent tear staining and potential infections.

If you're looking to adopt a Bichon Havanais, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Bichon Havanais waiting for their forever homes.