7 Facts About Havanese You Probably Didn’t Know

Havanese, the charismatic, fluffy, and cheerful little dogs from Cuba, is much adored for their sweet nature and adaptability. While they are widely recognized for their playful personalities, there are many aspects of the Havanese breed that remain lesser known. Let’s discover seven surprising facts about Havanese that you probably didn’t know.

1. National Dog of Cuba

Havanese are the only dog breed native to Cuba. They were bred by the Cuban aristocracy in the 1800s and named after Cuba’s capital, Havana. Over time, the breed has become a national emblem and is today recognized as the national dog of Cuba.

2. Near Extinction

Like many breeds, the Havanese faced near extinction. In the 1950s, when many Cubans fled to the USA during the Cuban Revolution, only a few Havanese dogs made the journey. All Havanese outside of Cuba today are descendants of those few dogs.

3. Silky Hair, not Fur

Unlike many breeds, Havanese don’t have fur; they have hair. Their long, silky hair is very similar to human hair and continues to grow throughout their life, often reaching the ground if not groomed. This unique feature also makes them a great choice for people with allergies, as they are hypoallergenic.

4. Circus Performers

In the 19th century, Havanese were often used as circus dogs because of their ability to learn tricks quickly and their love of being the center of attention. Their agility, balance, and knack for performing make them great candidates for dog sports like agility and obedience.

5. A Breed of Many Colors

Havanese are one of the dog breeds with the widest variety of coat colors. They can come in practically any color or combination of colors, including cream, gold, white, silver, blue, and black, among others. This wide color spectrum makes every Havanese unique.

6. Not Born with their Final Coat Color

Adding to their intriguing coat color variety, Havanese puppies are not always born with their final coat color. They may undergo a significant color change as they grow, often getting lighter. A puppy that starts off black may end up silver or blue!

7. The Velcro Dog

Like their distant cousins the Vizslas, Havanese are also known as “Velcro dogs”. This term denotes their strong desire to be close to their owners. Havanese form deep bonds with their families and don’t like to be left alone for long periods.

In summary, the Havanese, with their charming personalities and intriguing characteristics, provide a treasure trove of lesser-known facts. From their Cuban roots, their brush with extinction, their unique hair, their history as performers, their coat color variety, their changing puppy colors, to their ‘Velcro’ tendencies, these unusual facts grant a deeper understanding of this delightful breed. Whether you are a Havanese owner or just a fan of the breed, these revelations offer a newfound appreciation for these endearing dogs.