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The Havanese in Cuba

The Havanese s not only the new perfect American family pet, but it has been exactly that dating back to the 1700's in its native country of Cuba.

In 1959 the political revolution in Cuba displaced the wealthy families to exile and the devoted family pet was left behind in the care of their trusted staff. After all, most families truly believed that the political situation would quickly resolve itself and they would be able to return to their country and beloved pets. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The breed although not preserved with official record books and planned out breeding's by educated breeders did manage to survive with simple common sense of those that loved and cared for them, who logically continued to seek "like" dogs when allowing the breeding's of their treasured darlings. In 1991 the " El Club Cubano del Bichon Habanero" (The Cuban Bichon Havanese Club) was formed. This group of educated men and women, dog fanciers took their work very seriously and endeavored in seeking out quality specimens representatives of the breed and thus with careful selection, evaluation and careful scrutiny of the clubs geneticist they were able to re-build the stud books of their breed ensuring not only their survival but they thrived and have produced some of the most beautiful and healthy Havanese that you can find.

The Club in Cuba is governed by the Federation Cynologique Internationale "FCI" which issues pedigrees just like other legitimate registries . Some of these specimens have been exported to Canada, Netherlands, Spain, Europe and Mexico, just to name a few. The 100% Cuban exports have earned many championships not only in their native country of Cuba which holds two canine shows per years with judges from all over the world in attendance but these 100% Cubans have received ribbons worldwide and produced champion progeny.

That is good news for us in the U.S. that can trace back all of our Havanese to 11 original dogs. These Cuban imports and their offspring may hold the promise of new blood that may play an instrumental role in the elimination or limitation of many of the genetic illnesses we are encountering in our breed; no doubt a possible result of inbreeding. To date the Club in Cuba reports they have not seen ANY cases of juvenile cataracts and their dogs are living long healthy lives.

Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

FCI Standard

Havanese Champions - CUBA

Cuban Champions of the Past...

NOTE: All images on this page are
actual Havanese in Cuba ...

Breeders Puppy Evaluations...

"Pucho" CH Papa Montero

Bebe Vigorosa de la Giraldilla

Side View:

"Cache" - Oye Chico Kennel

Summer Dog Show in Cuba

Fall Competitions in Cuba