They are a descendant of breeds brought to Cuba from Spain. Their role went from a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy into a family companion responsible for being a watchdog, child’s playmate and herder of the family’s poultry flock. Our AKC Havanese are house pets and companions first. We have shown our dogs in confirmation, but they could easily compete in agility or obedience.
Havanese are a long lived and a relatively healthy breed. However like every breed of dog you are going to possibly have health disorders, the Havenese are no exception. Some disorders are Heritable cataracts, hip dysplasia disease, patella luxation and deafness.