Is Havanese a Good House Dog?

The Havanese is a small, friendly, and playful dog that originated in Cuba. They are part of the toy group and have a long, silky coat that comes in many colors. They are often called the “Velcro dog” because they love to be with their owners and hate to be left alone. But is Havanese a good house dog? Let’s find out by looking at some of their characteristics, history, and care tips.

Characteristics of the Havanese

The Havanese is a lively and intelligent dog that can adapt to different environments and lifestyles. They are good with children, other dogs, and even cats. They are easy to train and enjoy learning tricks and games. They have a moderate energy level and need about 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise. They can be happy in a big house or a small apartment, as long as they get enough attention and companionship from their owners.

History of the Havanese

The Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba. They are descended from small dogs brought to the island by European sailors in the 1600s. They became popular with the Cuban aristocracy and were known as the “Havana silk dog”. They also attracted the attention of famous people like Queen Victoria, Ernest Hemingway, and Charles Dickens.

The Havanese almost became extinct after the Cuban revolution in 1959, when many Cubans fled to the United States and brought their dogs with them. Fortunately, some breeders managed to save the breed and revive its popularity. The American Kennel Club recognized the Havanese in 1996.

Care Tips for the Havanese

The Havanese is a low-shedding dog that is considered hypoallergenic. However, they require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and mat-free. Many owners choose to clip their coats short to reduce grooming time. They also need occasional baths and nail trimming.

Some of the care tips for the Havanese are:

• Brush their coat at least three times a week or more if it is long
• Use a mild dog shampoo and conditioner to wash their coat
• Avoid getting water in their eyes, ears, and nose when bathing them
• Clean their ears regularly and check for signs of infection
• Brush their teeth daily or several times a week
• Feed them a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs
• Provide them with fresh water at all times
• Take them to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations
• Watch out for common health issues like deafness, eye problems, and joint disorders

Conclusion

The Havanese is a wonderful dog that can make a great house pet for many people. They are affectionate, playful, smart, and adaptable. They are good with kids and other pets and can live in any size of home. They do need a lot of attention and grooming, but they will reward you with their loyalty and love.

If you are looking for a small dog that can brighten up your life, you might want to consider getting a Havanese. They are some of the best house dogs you can find.