The Havanese is a descendent of the barbichon family of dogs, which in turn descend from the barbet, a large water dog behind the Poodle. The barbichon family was centered around the Mediterranean.

Spanish traders brought some of these dogs with them when they traveled, giving them to Cuban women.

The dogs became pampered pets in Cuba, especially favored with the upper class. They became known as the Habenero.

Eventually some of these dogs were brought back to Europe, where they were called white Cubans. Here they became popular both as pets and as performing dogs.

Their popularity as pets waned, and their numbers dwindled, but they remained popular as trick performers in the circus.

In the 1950s and 60s, three families left Cuba for the United States, bringing their dogs with them. Most present-day Havanese descend from these dogs, with some input from later imports.

The AKC recognized the Havanese in 1999.

Makes an affectionate and exuberant companion.

Playful, gentle and very good with children.

Very friendly to strangers, other dogs and other pets.

Does best with reward-based training involving food or games.

Eager to please, bright and responsive.

Makes a lively and alert housedog.

A walk around the block once or twice daily, plus a vigorous game, will meet its exercise needs, not counting bathroom breaks.

Many Havanese have been trained to use indoor potty systems.

Dog parks can work out well as long as Havanese are not expected to mingle with much larger dogs.

Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.

Its thick coat provides some protection against cold weather, but its fairly small body size nonetheless makes it vulnerable to the cold.

Coat is long, and ranges from straight to curly, with wavy preferred.

Brushing and combing two to four times a week is necessary to prevent matting.

Shedding is below average.

No breed is actually non-allergenic, but Havanese may cause fewer allergies compared to most other breeds.

Havanese tend to stay in good weight. The thick coat can sometimes obscure weight problems, so be sure to use your hands to feel.

Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.