Origin and Purpose

Originating in the Western Mediterranean region, Havanese are descended from old world Bichon types. Early sea merchants brought these small dogs to Cuba where the breed was further developed and refined; for centuries prized by upper social classes as children’s playmates and loving companions. Though numbers were severely decimated by the late 1950s Cuban revolution, the breed has regrown from surviving descendants. No longer a token of high society, the Havanese today is a companion dog to be enjoyed by all.

General Appearance

Sturdy, well-balanced, small drop-eared dog, rectangular in outline, slightly longer than tall, with long, abundant, soft, and wavy hair in a variety of colors and patterns. Casual and carefree, unaffected in both manner and appearance. Movement is lively and elastic, with the plumed tail carried over the back.

Temperament

Exceptionally bright and attentive, easily trained in many capacities. Affectionate, happy-natured, amiable, a charmer, playful, and even a bit of a clown. An eager, lively, devoted family companion, typically good with children.

Size

Height: Ideal height at withers is 23–27 cm (9.0–10.6 inches). A tolerance of 21–29 cm (8.3–11.4 inches) is acceptable.
Proportion and Substance: A small dog with a sense of refinement yet sturdy; weight is proportionate to height and bone, maintaining a balanced, moderate build without exaggeration toward either fragility or coarseness.

Hair

Well-suited to a breed developed in the tropics, the abundant, silken double coat is fine, soft, and lightweight throughout. The undercoat is light and may not be fully developed. The topcoat, which is very long (12–18 cm in adults), does not hang to the ground, allowing light under the dog when standing on a solid surface. Hair is ideally wavy, though any degree of wave is permissible. Single, perfectly straight, or tightly curled coats are undesirable, as are wooly, harsh, or wiry textures.

Grooming Notes: Scissoring and trimming are forbidden, except for tidying the base of the feet and minimal hygienic trimming that is unnoticeable on presentation.

Color

Wide color diversity is allowed, with all colors, markings, and patterns equally acceptable.

Head

Medium length and balanced in proportion to the body.

• Skull: Flat to very slightly rounded, broad, with a moderate stop.
• Nose: Fully pigmented in black or liver/brown on chocolate dogs.
• Muzzle: Level, narrowing slightly toward the nose, with a length equal to the skull length.
• Eyes: Bright, gentle, intelligent, and expressive. Large, almond-shaped, and dark brown or lighter brown on chocolate dogs.
• Ears: Well-feathered, set relatively high, and falling along the cheeks, forming a discreet fold that raises them slightly.

Neck

Medium length and proportionately balanced, blending smoothly into the shoulders.

Forequarters

Forelegs are straight, parallel, and lean, with moderate angulations. Feet point straight forward, with slightly elongated shapes and tight toes.

Body

Slightly longer than tall, creating a rectangular outline. The topline is straight but slightly arched over the muscular loin, with a gradual rise from the withers to the rear.

Hindquarters

Well-structured with moderate angulations that balance the forequarters.

Tail

A plumed tail with long silky feathering is loosely curled over the back while gaiting but may drop at rest.

Gait

The Havanese moves with a strikingly light-footed and elastic gait, characterized by lively and springy motion. The topline remains steady in motion, and the head is carried high.

Faults

Any deviations from the standard should be penalized in proportion to their degree, including but not limited to:

• General appearance lacking in type
• Excessive shyness or aggression
• Muzzle too short, truncated, or longer than the skull
• Coat harsh, not abundant, or excessively trimmed
• Incorrect tail carriage

Disqualifications

• Depigmented nose
• Overshot or undershot bite
• Ectropion, entropion, or depigmented eyerims
• Height under 21 cm or over 29 cm (minimum height not applicable to puppies under 12 months)
• Males must have two fully descended testicles

This CKC Havanese Standard provides a clear guide for understanding the breed’s ideal appearance, temperament, and structure while emphasizing their role as delightful companions for all families.

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