General Appearance
The Havanese is a small sturdy dog of immense charm. He is slightly
longer than tall, and covered with a profuse mantle of untrimmed long,
silky, wavy hair. His plumed tail is carried loosely curled over his
rump. A native of Cuba, he has evolved over the centuries from the
pampered lap-dog of the aristocracy into what he is today - the
quintessential family pet of a people living on a small tropical
island. His duties traditionally have been those of companion,
watchdog, child's playmate and herder of the family poultry flock. His
presentation in the show ring should reflect his function - always in
excellent condition but never so elaborately coifed as to preclude an
impromptu romp in the leaves, as his character is essentially playful
rather than decorative.
