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1. General Appearance
The following physical appearance description of the Havanese is based on the standards set by the American Kennel Association. These are guidelines that breeders and dog show competitors must adhere to in order to succeed in the dog show business. You can obtain a more detailed listing of Havanese standards from the American Kennel Association.
The Havanese is small and sturdy in stature. The body of a Havanese is slightly longer than tall. A Havanese has untrimmed long, silky, wavy hair. Their coat is of a texture that does well in warm tropical climates. They have hair that falls over their eyes. This longer hair is usually not tied into a top knot because it can act as a protective layer from the bright sun. They have a plumed tail that is carried loosely over their hindquarters.
2. Size and Physical Characteristics
The Havanese breed is a small dog. The Havanese is 7-13 pounds in weight. The American Kennel Club breed standard is more specific as to the proper size of a Havanese. According to the American Kennel Club a Havanese should be:
“The height range is from 8½ to 11½ inches, with the ideal being between 9 and 10½ inches, measured at the withers, and is slightly less than the length from point of shoulder to point of buttocks, creating a rectangular outline rather than a square one.”
The Havanese breed should have large dark brown almond shaped eyes that are set widely apart. They have medium length ears. The breed is small in stature, but is by no means fragile.
3. Coat and Color
The Havanese has a soft, long-haired double coat. The Havanese can vary in color including: cream, gold, silver, blue, and black.
It is essential to brush your Havanese daily so that their hair doesn’t become matted. It may take time to get your Havanese used to the daily brushing, but once they do, they might actually enjoy it. Make sure to keep their face clean as their eyes may produce a small tear discharge.
4. Gait
A Havanese is a toy dog with a spring in their step. This extra spice in their step is due to a strong rear drive paired with flashy front action from their upper arms.
The American Kennel Club depicts the Havanese gait as lively, elegant, resilient, and unique.
5. Faults that Result in Disqualification
When showing a dog the judges are very cognizant of any “unacceptable” faults of the Havanese. Faults associated with physical appearance include the following characteristics:
• Height at withers under 8½ or over 11½ inches except that the minimum height range shall not apply to dogs or bitches less than twelve months of age.
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Complete absence of black (or chocolate in the chocolate dog) pigmentation on the eye rims, nose or lips.
• Coarse, wiry coat.
An atypical short coat on an adult. (Atypical refers to a smooth, flat coat with, or without furnishings.)
Remember these “faults” are of most concern for show dogs. You can raise a Havanese that doesn’t bring home a dog show trophy, but will provide you with companionship, dedication, and protection.
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