Chocolate Havanese: Rich in Both Color and Charm
As a dog lover, it‘s impossible not to fall head over heels for the Havanese. With their silky soft coat, expressive eyes, and cuddly size, these little charmers wiggle their way into your heart. And when cloaked in a deep, luscious shade of chocolate brown, the Havanese becomes even more irresistible.
But there‘s more to the chocolate Havanese than just a pretty face. This is a breed with a fascinating history, a delightful personality, and some unique challenges. Whether you‘re already smitten or just curious about these Cuban cuties, pour yourself a mug of hot cocoa and let‘s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Breed History and Origin
- Physical Characteristics
- Temperament and Personality
- Grooming and Coat Care
- Training and Exercise
- Health and Lifespan
- Choosing a Chocolate Havanese
Breed History and Origin
The Havanese, also known as the Bichon Havanais or the Havana Silk Dog, is the national dog of Cuba. They were developed from the now extinct Blanquito de la Habana, or "little white dog of Havana", which was likely brought to Cuba by Spanish colonists in the 1500s.
Over time, the Blanquito interbred with other small dogs including Poodles and Bichon Frise, evolving into the Havanese we know today. The breed became a favorite lapdog among the aristocrats and wealthy planters of Cuba.
But when the Cuban Revolution occurred in 1959, many Havanese were brought to the United States by their owners fleeing the conflict. Just 11 dogs became the foundation for the Havanese breed in America, and their descendants still carry those original Cuban bloodlines.
The chocolate coloring has always existed in Havanese, but is relatively uncommon compared to lighter shades. Chocolate dogs are born a very dark brown that lightens slightly as they mature. The color comes from a recessive gene, so both parents must carry it to potentially produce chocolate puppies.
The Havanese was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1996 and has steadily risen in popularity, currently ranking as the 24th most popular breed in the US. These charming companion dogs have won many devoted fans with their affectionate nature and adaptability.
Physical Characteristics
The Havanese is a small but sturdy dog, with adults typically weighing 7-13 pounds and standing 8.5-11.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Their body is slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest and a plumed tail that arches up over the back.
One of the defining features of the Havanese is their soft, silky coat. The breed standard calls for a double coat, with a protective outer layer and a thick undercoat. When left to grow long, the coat falls in a gentle wave all the way to the ground.
Havanese come in a delightful array of colors, from pure white to black and every shade in between. Chocolate is one of the more unusual colors, ranging from a rich milk chocolate to a deep, dark brown. Chocolate dogs often have mesmerizing green or amber eyes that stand out against their coat.
The Havanese has a pretty, rounded head with a moderately short muzzle and a distinct stop. Their dark almond-shaped eyes convey a sweet, intelligent expression. The ears are medium sized and hang down, covered in long silky hair.
These little dogs have a lively, springy gait that showcases their happy nature. They may be small, but Havanese are surprisingly athletic and agile. This is a breed that loves to play and explore, always ready for the next adventure.
Temperament and Personality
It‘s impossible not to smile when you meet a Havanese. These happy-go-lucky dogs approach life with a joyful, friendly attitude that‘s downright contagious. They‘re known for their outgoing, people-oriented nature and make wonderful companion dogs.
Bred solely as lapdogs for centuries, the Havanese is deeply devoted to their human family. They thrive on being close to their people and will follow you from room to room like a little shadow. Left alone for long hours, Havanese may develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviors.
But don‘t mistake their affectionate nature for a lack of brains or spunk. Havanese are intelligent, curious dogs with a mischievous streak. They love to play games, learn tricks, and go on adventures with their favorite humans.
These social butterflies usually get along well with other dogs, cats, and respectful children. Early socialization helps them develop into confident, well-mannered companions. Havanese can be good watchdogs, alerting you to visitors, but are too friendly to be effective guard dogs.
As a small breed, Havanese can be prone to barking, especially if bored or anxious. Teaching a "quiet" command and providing plenty of mental stimulation can help keep the noise down. They‘re also sensitive dogs who don‘t respond well to harsh corrections or scolding.
With their portable size, trainable nature, and cheerful outlook, it‘s no wonder Havanese have become such popular companion dogs. They‘re the perfect blend of cuddly lapdog and spunky playmate.
Grooming and Coat Care
That gorgeous Havanese coat doesn‘t stay silky and tangle-free on its own. These little dogs have a profuse double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and keep the hair healthy.
Expect to brush your Havanese at least 3 times a week, and potentially every day, to maintain a long coat. Using the right tools, like a pin brush, slicker brush, and metal comb, will make grooming easier. Many owners find that keeping the coat trimmed to a medium length is more manageable.
The Havanese coat is technically hypoallergenic and they shed very little. This is good news for allergy sufferers, as long as you stay on top of brushing to remove loose hair before it spreads around your home.
In addition to coat care, your Havanese will need regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care. Check those floppy ears weekly for signs of infection and wipe them out with a cotton ball. Small dogs are prone to dental disease, so start a toothbrushing routine with dog-safe toothpaste early on.
Bathtime is a good opportunity for bonding with your Havanese and keeping their coat soft and shiny. Use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner, and make sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent itching and irritation. Blow drying on a low setting can help prevent tangles as the coat dries.
If all that grooming sounds overwhelming, you‘re not alone. Many Havanese owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" to reduce daily brushing. It‘s a personal choice whether to keep the coat long or go for an easier care style.
Ultimately, grooming your Havanese is an expression of love. By keeping them clean, comfortable, and mat-free, you‘re helping your little friend look and feel their best.
Training and Exercise
The Havanese is a smart, eager-to-please breed that‘s usually easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods like praise, play, and treats. Start training early and keep sessions short and fun to hold your puppy‘s attention.
Like all dogs, Havanese need early socialization to develop into well-rounded adults. Expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals, environments, and experiences in a positive way. Puppy kindergarten classes are a great way to jumpstart training and socialization.
Havanese are adaptable dogs that can thrive in many living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. They have moderate exercise needs and will be satisfied with a couple 20-30 minute walks per day, plus some indoor playtime.
These agile little dogs often enjoy dog sports like agility, rally, and tricks. Training provides much-needed mental stimulation and strengthens the bond with your Havanese. Even basic obedience commands like sit, down, and come will make your dog a polite member of the household.
One important skill to teach your Havanese is being comfortable alone. This is a companion breed that loves being with their people and may suffer from separation anxiety if left for long hours. Practice leaving your Havanese for short periods and slowly build up to longer absences.
Housetraining can be a challenge for toy breeds like the Havanese, but consistent training and a regular schedule will set your puppy up for success. Take them out frequently, especially after meals and naps, and praise them for going in the right spot. Some Havanese do well with indoor options like pee pads or litter boxes.
With their people-pleasing nature and quick minds, Havanese typically pick up on house rules and basic manners quickly. The key is to start early, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement to shape good behavior.
Health and Lifespan
The Havanese is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 14-16 years. Like all purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, heart disease, and deafness.
One condition to be aware of in the breed is chondrodysplasia, a form of dwarfism that can cause short limbs and a curved spine. Affected dogs may have mobility issues and a higher risk of back problems. Choosing a breeder who does health testing can help minimize the risk.
Other health issues seen in Havanese include patellar luxation (trick knee), heart murmurs, and liver shunts. Regular vet check-ups, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, and providing preventive care like dental cleanings can help catch problems early.
As a small breed, Havanese are more prone to dental disease and tracheal collapse. Daily tooth brushing and using a harness instead of a collar can reduce the risk of these issues. Feeding a high-quality diet and avoiding overfeeding also supports long-term health.
By choosing a reputable breeder, keeping up with preventive care, and providing a loving home, you give your Havanese the best chance at a long, healthy life. And in return, you‘ll enjoy many happy years with your devoted companion.
Choosing a Chocolate Havanese
Has learning about the chocolate Havanese made you fall even more in love? You‘re not alone! These little charmers have won many devoted fans with their affectionate nature and teddy bear looks.
If you‘re ready to add a chocolate Havanese to your life, take the time to find a responsible breeder. Avoid pet stores and online ads, which may come from puppy mills. Instead, look for a breeder who does health testing, provides a written contract, and raises puppies in their home.
Prepare to be patient, as chocolate is a relatively uncommon color and responsible breeders may have waiting lists. Expect to pay $2000-3000 for a well-bred Havanese puppy. While this may seem like a lot, it‘s an investment in a healthy, well-socialized dog.
If you‘re open to an adult dog, don‘t overlook rescue organizations. Many Havanese end up needing new homes when their owners can‘t meet the breed‘s grooming or attention needs. Adopting a Havanese lets you skip the puppy stage while still getting all the wonderful traits of the breed.
Ultimately, bringing home a Havanese means committing to being their devoted companion. These little dogs thrive on human interaction and don‘t do well as kennel dogs or backyard pets. If you work long hours or travel frequently, this may not be the right breed for you.
But if you‘re looking for a portable, cheerful companion to share your life, the chocolate Havanese may be your perfect match. With their silky coat, sunny disposition, and loving nature, these little dogs have a way of stealing your heart and never letting go.
Resources and Further Reading
- Havanese Club of America
- Havanese Rescue Inc.
- American Kennel Club Havanese Breed Standard
- Ruben, D. 2004. The Havanese. Kennel Club Books.
