This is a sturdy active breed that loves its family. They do not do well left alone and thrive when they are the center of your universe. They are very social and get along well with children and other dogs. Havanese are quite versatile. They do well in obedience, agility, conformation, as therapy dogs and of course, as companions. They thrive as only dogs or in busy households. They are very adaptable. They also get along well with other pets.

Havanese love high places, riding in the car, shredding,  playing “runlikehell”, bully sticks, their owners and will do almost anything to be with you at all times. This includes standing in the shower with you (there is apparently a fear that you will escape through a hidden door), sitting at your feet while using the lavatory or you will find them waiting frantically if you accidentally close a door between them and you. I am never surprised to find several of mine lounging on the dining room table. They are also consummate “beggars”. Adults beg and 5 week old pups will stand on their hind legs with soulful eyes trying to get whatever it is you are eating.

There is truth to the adage that nothing plays with a Havanese like another Havanese. They have their own games and they all seem to understand the rules with slight variations. They love “runlikehell” and guard the “bully stick”. There seems to be a precise set of rules to each of these and while I don’t pretend to understand them, mine all know the rules and how to play these games to their own advantage. It also appears any game can be stopped at any moment if something “shredable” appears. Once shredding has taken place, the previous game will continue as if it never stopped.

The moms seem to have a separate set of games to play with the babies. The favorite is “whack a puppy”. It was started by my Tango who used to do it with her kids and has progressed to all adults knowing how to play “whack a pup” with the babies. Sometimes this one gets a little rough and I have to step in but for the most part it can go on without adult intervention. It must be a learning experience for the young as they all grow up knowing the rules to the adult games.

Havanese are funny little clowns that love their people. They are your constant companion from morning to night. If you cannot deal with a 24/7 pal, they may not be the dog for you. If you can they are adaptable, devoted, energetic, friendly, loving, cute, cuddly, entertaining and a bundle of unconditional love.