| Country of origin: | Republic of Cuba |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Companion |
| Size: | 8.5 to 11.5 in tall; 7 to 14 lbs |
| Longevity: | 11 to 13 years |
| Exercise: | Low activity level |
| Training: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Moderate; lots of combing |
| Colors: | Silver, cream, gold, blue, black |
Also called the Bichon Havanese or Havana Silk Dog, this breed may be descended from Spanish-owned Maltese or from crosses of the Bolognese and poodles. It is a loyal companion, gentle, responsive, and sometimes shy, and very tolerant around children. The Havanese dates back to the 18th or 19th century, but its popularity suffered in its homeland of Cuba following the revolution, as often happens to the favoured companions of the ousted regime. It has recently become better known in the United States and Great Britain.