Overview
The Havanese was the lapdog of Havana's wealthy families and remains above all a companion. It is a small, long-coated dog with a springy gait and a tail carried over the back, and it tends to treat every human it meets as a potential friend. It is not fragile, and most are happy to walk properly rather than be carried.
For a walker the appeal is a dog that wants to be with you and learns fast. The challenge is the coat, which collects everything on a wet British walk, and a dislike of being left that can show up as barking or clinginess.
Exercise and walking needs
Forty-five minutes a day across two outings is plenty for most adults. They enjoy short bursts of play and trick training as much as distance, so a few sits and spins on the way round go down well.
They are not built for long hikes or hot weather, and the full coat holds heat in summer. Keep summer walks early and short.
On the walk
- Lead manners: Light and easy on the lead, though they can dart sideways after a leaf or a passing dog. A harness protects the throat on a small frame.
- Recall: Usually good because they do not want to lose you. Still, a small dog near a road or a bigger dog should be on a lead.
- Other dogs: Friendly and playful but easily knocked over by a boisterous Labrador. Choose calm companions on group walks.
- Coat: Mud, burrs and wet grass stick to the long hair, especially on the legs and belly. A towel and a comb through afterwards save the owner a grooming bill.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk them on grass or paths rather than long wet verges if the coat is kept in full show length.
- Carry small soft treats; most Havanese work well for food and it keeps attention on you around distractions.
- If the dog is clipped short, it will feel the cold more than you expect. Ask about a coat in winter.
- Check the eyes after windy or dusty walks; the hair around the face collects grit.
What to ask the owner
- How is the coat kept, and is it alright to towel and comb the dog down after a wet walk?
- Does the dog bark or fret when you arrive or leave, and what helps?
- Any history of knee problems or a limp after exercise? Small breeds can be prone to slipping kneecaps.