Havanese are members of the Bichon family, which originated in the Mediterranean. It is believed the ancestors of this spunky, sturdy toy breed were brought to Cuba by the Spanish when they were first exploring the Caribbean. These happy, social dogs were often given as gifts, by sea merchants, to the wives and daughters of the wealthy upperclass. There they became valued members of the family. 

​

Through many cultural ups and downs, including the Cuban Revolution of 1959, this resilient breed is with us today, primarily (and thankfully!) through the breeding efforts of Dorothy Goodale in the 1970's in the United States.

​

In choosing a Havanese, you are in good company! ​

Some famous figures who have owned Havanese include - Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, Ernest Hemingway, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Barbara Walters, Glenn Close,

Joan Rivers .... and maybe you?? 

​

​

To read more of this part of the story behind Happy Hearted Havanese:

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/havanese-history-bouncing-back-from-exile/