The Havanese is part of the Bichon canine family of small breeds which probably originated in the mediterranean area in pre-Christian times. All Bichons are descended from the same bloodlines that produced the Barbet, or water spaniel, Poodle, Portugese Water dog and others. The Barbet or Barbichon later shortened to Bichon canine family consists of serveral distinct breeds, including the Havanese. In order of popularity in the U.S., these breeds are 1) Maltese, 2) Bichon Frise, 3) Havanese, 4) Lowchen, 5) Coton de Tulear, and 6) Bolongnese.
During the days of the Spanish empire, Bichons travelled to Cuba with sea captains who used them as presents for the women of Cuban households. By gaining entry into wealthy Hispanic homes, which were otherwise closed to outsiders, the captains were able to establish lucerative trading relationships with rich Cuban families.
Once in Cuba, the havanese (habeneros in Spanish) lived exclusively in the mansions of the higher social class of people. Havanese were never raised commercially or sold but were sometimes given as precious gifts to friends or someone who had performed a valuable service. Like the Victorian-age wealthy Hispanic woman who owned them, the dogs were not seen in the streets or public areas. They lived in the rooms and interior courtyards of there tropical homes and occiasionally road in carriages with their owners.
The Havanese found its way to Europe where it became very popular and was recognized by the European Kennel Club. It was known in England as the "white Cuban" Queen Anne is said to have admired a troupe of performing dogs that danced to music in almost human fashion.
As happened to many other dog breeds, the Havanese popularity waned over the course of time. For awhile they were used in circuses as trick dogs throughout Europe but eventually they became almost extinct even in there native Cuba.
Only three families are known to have left Cuba with their Havanese during the political turmoil of the 1950's and 1960's. It is assumed that by that time there might not have been very many of these dogs kept by anyone. These three exiled families worked alone in Florida and Costa Rica for over a decade to perserve the breed.
Dorothy and Burt Goodale of Colorado began looking for a small breed to raise which would have the calm temperament and intelligence they cherished in there larger breeds. After many years of investigation, elusive references to the Havanese had there attention, but no one knew where the Goodales might obtain them.
In the mid 70's they chanced upon an advertisment which resulted in the purchase of six pedigreed Havanese. A mother and four daughters and an unrelated male.
Currently there are approximately 4,000 registered Havanese in the United States. The Havanese is also making a come back in its Native Cuba. The Bichon Habanero is working from foundation stock in Cuba and is closely supervising the breeding programs.
