Bichon Havanais
Description
The Bichon Havanais, often called the Havanese, is a small breed originating from Cuba’s capital, Havana. This breed is Cuba’s national dog and the only native breed from the country, with roots tracing back to Mediterranean Bichons. It evolved from the Blanquito de la Habana, itself descended from the Bichon Tenerife, and was cherished by Cuban aristocracy in the 19th century. The breed nearly vanished during the Cuban Revolution but was preserved by émigrés who brought their dogs to the U.S. The Havanese gained American Kennel Club recognition in 1996. Known for a cheerful and friendly nature, the Havanese bonds closely with its family and thrives on social interaction. It adapts well to various living environments, from apartments to larger homes, and enjoys companionship with other pets. Despite its small size, this breed requires regular mental and physical engagement to stay content and healthy.
Grooming
The Bichon Havanais sports a long, silky double coat that demands consistent care to prevent mats and tangles. Daily line-brushing with a pin brush and metal comb down to the skin is essential to maintain coat health. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat clean but must be followed by thorough drying to avoid moisture-related issues. Pay special attention to tidying the feet and sanitary areas between full grooming sessions. The breed’s coat comes in numerous colors and patterns, including black, cream, silver, and various brindles, so watch for stain-prone whites and lighter shades that may need extra spot cleaning. - Daily line-brush to skin - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Fully dry coat after bathing - Tidy feet and sanitary areas regularly - Check for mats especially in humid weather Pro tip: Use a detangling spray before brushing to ease combing and reduce breakage.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
The Havanese requires about 25 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session that fits easily into a busy schedule. This breed enjoys a moderate stroll that stimulates both mind and body without overexertion. A consistent routine helps maintain their physical health and satisfies their curiosity during neighborhood exploration. Short bursts of play before or after the walk can enhance engagement without needing extra long outings. Example routine: A 25-minute morning walk around the block followed by 10 minutes of indoor scent games or fetch. This balances physical exercise with mental stimulation, keeping the dog happy and calm for the day.
Boarding
When boarding a Bichon Havanais, provide a crate sized between 24 and 30 inches to ensure comfort without excess space that could cause anxiety. This breed enjoys interactive play sessions, so plan for two active play blocks daily combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should note the Havanese’s social nature; they thrive on human contact and may become stressed if left isolated. Enrichment activities that mimic family interaction help reduce separation anxiety and keep the dog relaxed. Regular grooming checks during boarding are also recommended to maintain coat condition.