General Appearance (C)

The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog of immense charm. As the native dog of Cuba, this breed is cherished for its friendly, intelligent, and playful nature. Slightly longer than tall, the Havanese boasts a long, untrimmed double coat. Key physical traits include a short upper arm with moderate shoulder layback, a straight topline that rises slightly from the withers to the croup, and a plumed tail carried arched forward over the back. The breed’s unique springy gait is a result of its structure and spirited temperament, making these characteristics of temperament, coat, structure, and gait essential to type.

Size, Proportion, and Substance

The ideal height for a Havanese is between 9 and 10 1/2 inches, with an acceptable range from 8 1/2 to 11 1/2 inches. Height below 8 1/2 inches or above 11 1/2 inches is a disqualification, except for puppies under twelve months of age. The height at the withers is slightly less than the length from the point of shoulder to the point of buttocks, giving the breed its distinctive rectangular outline. Havanese are moderately boned and should never appear coarse or fragile.

Head

The expression of the Havanese is soft, intelligent, and mischievous. Eyes are large, almond-shaped, and dark brown, although chocolate-colored dogs may have lighter brown eyes. Eye rims must be solid black in all colors except chocolate dogs, which have solid brown rims. Incomplete or missing pigmentation of the eye rims is a disqualification. The ears are broad at the base, dropped, and have a distinct fold, lifting slightly at the base when alert but always remaining folded.

The skull is broad, slightly rounded, with a moderate stop and level planes. The muzzle is full and rectangular, slightly shorter than the skull, and features a broad nose. Both the nose and lips must be solid black in all colors except chocolate, which allows for solid brown pigment. Lack of pigmentation or the presence of any color other than black or brown on these features is a disqualification. A scissors bite is preferred, with a full complement of incisors ideal.

Neck, Topline, and Body

The neck of the Havanese is slightly arched, of moderate length, and blends smoothly into the shoulders, complementing the dog’s height and length. The chest is deep, well-developed, and reaches the elbows. The straight topline rises slightly from the withers to the croup. The length of the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers, owing to the well-sprung ribcage. The loin is short and muscular, with a moderate tuck-up. The high-set tail arches forward over the back, plumed with silky hair that may fall forward or to the sides. While standing, a dropped tail is permissible, but docking is not allowed.

Forequarters

The tops of the shoulder blades converge at the withers, allowing for a smooth neck-to-back transition. Shoulders have moderate layback sufficient to carry the head high, and the short upper arm contributes to this stance. The elbows are tight to the body, with straight forelegs and slightly sloping pasterns that are short, strong, and flexible. The feet are compact, with arched toes pointing forward. Pads and nails may vary in color. Dewclaws may be removed.

Hindquarters

The hindquarters are muscular, with moderate angulation and well-let-down hocks. Pasterns are parallel from the hock to the foot. The croup is slightly higher than the withers. Like the forefeet, the hind feet are compact and feature arched toes. Pads and nails may be any color. Dewclaws may be removed.

Coat

The Havanese coat is silky, soft, and light in texture, with the outer coat carrying slightly more weight than the undercoat. The coat is long, abundant, and wavy, flowing naturally and slightly standing off the body. An ideal coat allows the natural lines of the dog to be seen. Puppies may have shorter, softer coats than adults. Faults include a single, flat, frizzy, or curly coat. Disqualifications include coarse, wiry coats, as well as short, smooth coats with or without furnishings. Corded coats are permissible, developing naturally into tassel-like cords over time.

Color

All colors and marking patterns are permissible and equally valued. Skin pigmentation may also vary in color.

Gait

The Havanese has a springy gait, reflecting the breed’s playful spirit and physical structure. The short upper arm combines with rear drive to create this distinctive movement. Front legs reach freely, matching moderate rear extension, while the topline and head remain steady during movement.

Temperament

Havanese are friendly, playful, intelligent, and alert, with a sweet and non-aggressive disposition. Shyness or aggression is considered a fault.

Presentation

The Havanese is presented naturally with good grooming. Dogs may be shown with brushed or corded coats. Minimal trimming of the anal and genital areas is allowed but should not be noticeable. Hair on the feet and between the pads may be trimmed neatly, but excessive trimming or sculpting of the coat is penalized. Dogs are presented on a loose lead to allow the springy gait to be assessed.

Faults

Deviations from the described ideal must be penalized proportionately.

Disqualifications

• Height at withers under 8 1/2 inches or over 11 1/2 inches, except for dogs under 12 months.
• Incomplete or missing pigmentation of the eye rims, nose, or lips.
• Any color pigmentation other than black or brown on these features.
• Coarse, wiry coats.
• Short, smooth coats with or without furnishings.

Approved Date: August 9, 2011
Effective Date: September 28, 2011