The Havanese, with its luxurious, flowing coat and playful personality, is a breed that often captures hearts at first sight. But what exactly defines the Havanese look? This article will delve into the physical characteristics that set this Cuban breed apart, from its charmingly fluffy coat to its expressive eyes.
Overview: The Havanese is a small, elegant breed known for its long, silky coat that comes in a variety of colors. It has a cheerful, playful disposition and a compact, well-proportioned body. This article will explore the Havanese’s appearance in detail, from its coat and head to its body and tail.
A Coat of Many Colors
The Havanese is most recognized for its stunning, flowing coat. This long, double coat is the hallmark of the breed, and it can be quite striking.
What Colors Does a Havanese Come In?
Havanese coats come in a variety of colors, including:
- White: Pure white coats are common, with some dogs having a slight ivory tinge.
- Black: Deep, rich black coats are also prevalent.
- Brown: Brown coats can range from light chocolate to dark mahogany.
- Parti-colored: Havanese can also come in parti-color combinations, such as black and white, brown and white, or black and brown.
The coat itself is silky, soft, and dense. It should be straight or slightly wavy, with a tendency to form loose curls. The Havanese coat is not prone to matting, but it does require regular brushing and grooming to prevent tangles and keep it looking its best.
Havanese Coat Types: The Long and the Short of It
While long, flowing coats are the hallmark of the breed, some Havanese owners opt for a shorter, more manageable cut.
- Long Coat: This is the traditional Havanese look, with a coat that reaches the ground.
- Short Coat: A short, clipped coat can be a good option for owners who prefer a lower-maintenance look. This cut usually keeps the coat at a length of around 2-3 inches.
Regardless of the length chosen, the Havanese coat is always soft and silky, making it a joy to pet.
A Head Full of Charm
The Havanese has a distinctive head that adds to its adorable appearance.
The Havanese Face: Small, Sweet, and Expressive
The Havanese head is small, but it is full of character.
- Eyes: The Havanese has large, round, dark eyes that are expressive and intelligent. They can range in color from dark brown to black.
- Nose: The nose is small and black, with a slightly upturned tip.
- Ears: The ears are long and feathery, hanging down beside the head. They are set high on the head, giving the Havanese a slightly alert look.
The Havanese Muzzle: Short and Sweet
The Havanese muzzle is short and blunt, giving the dog a somewhat teddy bear-like appearance.
- Teeth: The Havanese has a scissor bite, meaning that the upper incisors slightly overlap the lower incisors. This bite is considered ideal for the breed.
The Havanese head, with its expressive eyes, small nose, and feathery ears, is a key contributor to the breed’s unique charm.
A Body Built for Playfulness
The Havanese has a compact, well-proportioned body that is built for agility and playfulness.
The Havanese Body: Small, Compact, and Agile
- Height and Weight: The Havanese is a small breed, standing between 8 and 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder. They typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds.
- Build: The Havanese has a compact, rectangular body with a well-defined chest and slightly sloping back.
- Legs: The legs are straight and strong, with small, oval feet.
The Havanese Tail: A Happy, Wagging Appendage
The Havanese tail is set low and carried curled over the back or down between the legs. It is usually covered in thick, flowing fur. The Havanese is known for its happy, wagging tail, which adds to its overall cheerful demeanor.
Final Thoughts: The Havanese Look – A Blend of Beauty and Playfulness
The Havanese dog is a stunning breed with a unique blend of beauty and playfulness. Its long, flowing coat, expressive eyes, and compact, agile body make it a truly charming companion. If you’re looking for a small, affectionate dog with a personality as big as its heart, the Havanese might be the perfect breed for you.
FAQ
1. What is the average size of a Havanese?
Havanese are considered a small breed. The average height for males is 11.5 inches while females are typically around 10 inches tall. When it comes to weight, the average range is between 7 to 13 pounds. These dogs are typically on the smaller side of the small breed range. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living, as they don’t need a lot of space to run around.
2. What colors do Havanese come in?
Havanese come in a wide variety of colors, including white, black, brown, cream, and even silver. They can also have different color combinations, such as black and white or brown and white. Many Havanese are a blend of colors rather than just one solid hue. They can even have a range of different shades of brown or cream. You’re likely to find one that perfectly suits your aesthetic preferences!
3. What are the most prominent features of a Havanese?
Havanese are known for their long, silky hair, which is often referred to as a “double coat.” Their long hair can be straight or wavy, and it is typically parted in the middle. The hair grows down over their faces and creates a “mustache” and “beard”. They have large, expressive eyes and a cute button nose. Their sweet expression and playful nature make them very appealing to potential owners.
4. Is a Havanese’s coat hypoallergenic?
No, Havanese are not hypoallergenic dogs. Their long, silky coat sheds, though it’s not as heavy as some other breeds. While their coat is not hypoallergenic, it is considered a low-shedding breed. Many owners also choose to keep their Havanese’s hair trimmed short to minimize shedding. Regular grooming will also help to keep shedding to a minimum.
5. What does a Havanese’s temperament look like?
Havanese are known for their playful, affectionate, and outgoing personalities. They are incredibly social dogs and love to be around people. They are often described as clowns because of their funny antics and love of attention. They are also very adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, making them a good choice for families with children and first-time dog owners.
6. How much grooming does a Havanese need?
Havanese require a significant amount of grooming. They need to be brushed at least once a day to prevent mats and tangles. Their long hair also requires regular trims and haircuts to maintain a neat appearance. The grooming needs of a Havanese will depend on how long you want to keep their hair.
7. Does a Havanese look like any other breed?
The Havanese’s closest relative is the Bichon Frise. These two breeds have similar features, such as long, silky coats and a playful temperament. However, the Havanese is slightly larger and has a longer snout than the Bichon Frise. Other breeds that the Havanese might be confused with include the Maltese and the Coton de Tulear. While they share some physical traits, the Havanese’s unique personality and long, flowing coat make it easily recognizable.