The Forgotten Refugees of the Cuban Revolution: Facts on the Havanese Dog

Havanese are one of the most wonderful small dogs, they are smart, soft, cute, and great with children. Much of the problems we see today are not with the dog breed itself, but lack of knowledge on the part of those looking to own them. Many people do not properly research the dog they are going to buy. They use their emotions to choose. The costs of ownership will be addressed from purchase to daily up keep; these dogs have a hefty price tag. There are dangers of not researching where the dog comes from, puppy mills are becoming more interested in the breed as they are compact and hypoallergenic they expensive to purchase. One has to know where to look and what questions to ask of a breeder to insure a health tested well adjusted pet. These dogs though small and lovable are not an accessory as many others in the toy breed can be labeled. They can have color changing coats, emotional issues, and even may have some health issues other small breeds do not, and so will an owner have the time and patience for them if a problem arises? One need to realize the gender roles are somewhat switched in this breed from what one would expect. People need proper education on these dogs before they buy them. Is the Havanese of today even the same little dogs as the eleven rescued by their owners as they fled during the Cuban Revolution? The Havanese is a somewhat controversial dog; from the mystery of its past, right up to what a true Havanese is today there are debates raging.