Havanese Judging Has Strict Standards

The almond eyes and what could be called a smile hidden behind a fine coat of long hair can make the Havanese standard seem more mischievous more than it is cute, but its temperament of fun loving and caring makes it one of the best breed for children and older adults. Bred into aristocracy in Cuba, the Havanese standard has gone through many career changes over the years, from companion to royalty to working poultry farms, it is a breed that is making a statement in dog shows every where.

While small in stature, typically standing between 8-1/2-inches and 11-inches tall at the withers, the physical size of this toy dog breed belies its strength and muscular build. It can work as a guard dog, despite the fact that it only barks when approached by a stranger, it will quickly stop the vocal warning upon hearing it owner acknowledge the approaching person.

When being shown, there are certain Havanese standards that are uncompromising. All of the dogs will have a black pigment surrounding its eye rims, except the chocolate-colored dogs, which will have a similar chocolate coloring around the eyes. Any other pigmentation or variation of these colors will not meet the Havanese standards for competition.

The animal’s size is also strictly judged in the show ring, with the acceptable Havanese standard being 8-1/2-inches to 11-inches, measured at the withers. Points will be deducted for animals under 8-1/2-inches, except for puppies less that a year old. When measured from the withers to the rump, the animal should be slightly longer than it is tall and the back line should be straight, with any humps or depressions in the center.

There are three basic types of coats worn by the Havanese, smooth, curly and wavy. Although animals with short, tight curls are not considered up to the Havanese standards for show dogs. The coat can be cared for and brushed, but no trimming is allowed in competition to meet the standards. Some under trimming can be performed around the genitals and anal area for hygiene, but the trimming cannot show while in show ring stance.
The intelligent expression on the Havanese dog’s face will draw focus to the eyes and the pigment in the eyes is solid black around the rims of the eyes, except in chocolate dogs, in which case the eye with be rimmed in chocolate colors. A Havanese without black eye rims, except the chocolate, will not meet the Havanese standards for judging. The leather of their medium length ears should reach half way to the nose and are set high on the head. The ears, when the dog is on alert, will rise from their widest point on the skull to form a slight arch.

Because the Havanese breed is playful and alert, they are extremely trainable with a cooperative disposition. Typically, they will present little feistiness during training and the Havanese standard shows them to be very docile, friendly animals.

Fiona Kelly enjoys studying the history of the Havanese as well as the other types of breeds that make good family pets. The Havanese has a rich and colorful history that can be traced back many years. By understanding this history you can gain a better understanding of your pet. Reading articles like this and talking to experts in the field will give you plenty of information about the Havanese standard that you need to know about this special breed of dog.