Like so many small breeds, Havanese dogs began life as the pampered companions of the rich and famous. After the revolution, many of the aristocrats of Cuba were working in the sugar cane fields and Havanese dogs evolved into being the family pet even the bourgeois can love. (In fact, many Havanese dogs wound up in the U.S. when people fled Cuba.)
While Havanese dogs may look like powder puffs, don't under-estimate them. These are sturdy little dogs that like to be fully engaged in family life, and may even hold down jobs as therapy dogs. Some even work at sniffing out termites in homes.
Havanese dogs owe their good looks to the bichon dogs that come from the Mediterranean. In fact, many suggest Cubans embraced these dogs when Spanish sailors arrived on the shores of this Caribbean island.
Carrying their plumy tails over their backs, Havanese dogs cut striking figures. They tend to be slightly higher in the back than at the shoulder and move in a somewhat showy, playful way. Havanese dogs have personalities to match their jaunty gait. Once you have seen Havanese dogs (called "Havs" for short), you will not readily confuse it with other small dogs with similar coats.
That is an important thing to keep in mind, when shopping for Havanese dogs. Supply and demand is on the side of the unscrupulous selling what they claim to be Havanese dogs. True members of this breed are in short supply, so some folks are willing to trade on the anxiousness of the potential buyer to sell them a dog that may only appear to be a Havanese. As always, find only reputable breeders when looking 
for Havanese dogs. Don't be afraid to ask for references.
Havanese dogs are meant to stand between 8.5 and 11.5 inches at the withers and look more sturdy than frail. Their coats, which they do not shed, making them ideal for people with allergy concerns, are soft and light, no doubt because of the time they spent in the harsh Caribbean sun. That is the reason the hair around and above the faces of Havanese dogs is not trimmed or gathered in a topknot like similar dogs. Think of it as canine sunscreen. Be sure the Havanese dogs in your life get plenty of grooming to look their best.
Just as all dogs, Havanese dogs are prone to a few health issues. Some will have legs that are too short. Havanese dogs can also be prone to cataracts, so proper eye care is required. Finally, because they have small bladders, Havanese dogs may be more difficult to housetrain when compared to other breeds.
Havanese dogs come in a canine rainbow of colors, from black to white and many colors and shades in between, as well as many colorful markings.
But, whatever color the Havanese dogs in your hacienda, rest assured that you have a good friend. Havanese dogs are noted for their loyalty and as such, they make great companions for children and household watch dogs. Little will pass the gaze of the Havanese.
