The Bichon Havanese (Habanero)

This branch of the Bichon Family evidenly came from the same roots as the Bichon Frise and other Bichon dogs, a breed that is neither terrier nor spaniel, but something inbetween. Strictly meant to be companions, they shared the Bichon lifestyle of world traveler, being carreid on commercial vessels, and traded to wealthy Cubans in order to gain entry to their homes.

With socioeconomic changes, the Havanese performed the typically Bichon trick of captivating everyone who knew it. Saved by the common folk for their merry and easy-going disposition, the Havanese is a good watchdog and tend to be somewhat suspicious of strangers.

The Havanese is a relative newcomer to the US, although the base of the breed is now firmly fixed in this country. The standard requires dogs from 8.5-10.5 inches and weigh 7-14 lbs. They are considered healthy dogs, and are still somewhat rare. The long waiting lists for Havanese assures for the time being that they have not been over-popularized to the detriment of the breed.

Follow the paw print below, to see photos and information on the Havanese.