Havanese Breed Standard
AKC Havanese Standard
General Appearance
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog of immense charm. The native dog of Cuba, he is beloved as a friendly, intelligent and playful companion. He is slightly longer than tall, with a long, untrimmed, double coat. The Havanese has a short upper arm with moderate shoulder layback and a straight topline that rises slightly from the withers to the croup. The plumed tail is carried arched forward up over the back. The unique springy gait is a result of the breed’s structure and playful, spirited personality. These characteristics of temperament, coat, structure and gait are essential to type.
Size, Proportion, and Substance
The ideal height is between 9 and 10 1/2 inches, with an acceptable height range from 8 1/2 to 11 1/2 inches. Height at withers under 8 1/2 inches or over 11 1/2 inches is a disqualification, except that the minimum height shall not apply to dogs or bitches under twelve months of age. The height is slightly less than the length from the point of shoulder to point of buttocks, creating a rectangular outline. The Havanese is moderately boned and should never appear coarse or fragile.
Head
The expression is soft, intelligent and mischievous. Eyes are large, dark brown and almond-shaped. Chocolate dogs may have somewhat lighter brown eyes. Eye rims are solid black for all colors except for chocolate dogs which have solid brown eye rims. Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the eye rims is a disqualification. Ears are broad at the base, dropped, and have a distinct fold. They are set high on the skull, slightly above the endpoint of the zygomatic arch. When alert, the ears lift at the base but always remain folded. Ear leather, when extended, reaches halfway to the nose. The skull is broad and slightly rounded. The stop is moderate and the planes of the head are level. The cheeks are flat. Length of muzzle is slightly less than length of skull measured from stop to point of occiput. The muzzle is full and rectangular with a broad nose. The nose and lips are solid black for all colors except for chocolate dogs which have solid brown pigment. Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the nose or lips is a disqualification. Any color pigmentation other than black or brown on the eye rims, nose or lips is a disqualification. Small depigmented areas on lips due to rubbing against canine teeth will not disqualify. A scissors bite is ideal and a full complement of incisors is preferred.
Neck, Topline and Body
The neck is slightly arched, of moderate length, blends smoothly into the shoulders and is in balance with the height and length of the dog. The prosternum is evident but not prominent. The chest is deep, well developed, and reaches the elbow. The straight topline rises slightly from the withers to the croup. Measured from point of shoulder to point of buttocks, the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. This length comes from the ribcage. Ribs are well sprung. The loin is short and well muscled. There is a moderate tuck-up. The tail is high-set and arches forward up over the back. It is plumed with long, silky hair. The tail plume may fall straight forward or to either side of the body. While standing, a dropped tail is permissible. The tail may not be docked.
Forequarters
The tops of the shoulder blades lie in at the withers, allowing the neck to blend smoothly into the back. Moderate shoulder layback is sufficient to carry the head and neck high. The upper arm is short. Elbows are tight to the body and forelegs are straight when viewed from any angle. The length from the foot to the elbow is equal to the length from elbow to withers. Pasterns are short, strong and flexible, very slightly sloping. Dewclaws may be removed. The feet have arched toes and point straight ahead. Pads and nails may be any color.
Hindquarters
The hind legs are muscular with moderate angulation. Hocks are well let down; pasterns are parallel from hock to foot. The croup is slightly higher than the withers. Dewclaws may be removed. The feet have arched toes and point straight ahead. Pads and nails may be any color.
Coat
Silky to the touch, the coat is soft and light in texture in both outer and undercoat, although the outer coat carries slightly more weight. The coat is long, abundant and wavy. It stands off the body slightly, but flows with movement. An ideal coat will permit the natural lines of the dog to be seen. Puppy coat may be shorter and have a softer texture than adult coat. A single, flat, frizzy or curly coat should be faulted. A coarse, wiry coat is a disqualification. A short, smooth coat with or without furnishings is a disqualification. The coat may be corded. Corded coats will naturally separate into wavy sections in young dogs and will in time develop into cords. Adult corded dogs will be completely covered with a full coat of tassle-like cords.
Color
All colors and marking patterns are permissible and are of equal merit. The skin may be any color.
Gait
The Havanese gait is springy. The characteristic spring is the result of the short upper arm combined with the rear drive. Front legs reach forward freely matching the moderate extension in the rear. On the move, the pads may be visible coming or going. The head is carried high and the slight rise in the topline holds under movement.
Temperament
The Havanese is friendly, playful, alert and intelligent with a sweet, non-quarrelsome disposition. Aggression or shyness should be faulted.
Presentation
Havanese should be shown as naturally as is consistent with good grooming. They may be shown either brushed or corded. The coat should be clean and well conditioned. In mature dogs, the length of the coat may cause it to fall to either side down the back but it should not be deliberately parted. Head furnishings are long and untrimmed, and may fall forward over the eyes or to both sides of the head; they may also be held in two small braids secured with plain elastic bands. The braids start above the inside corner of each eye and extend at least to the outside corner, forming the appearance of eyebrows. No other hair accessories are permitted. Minimal trimming of the anal and genital area is permissible but should not be noticeable on presentation. Hair on the feet and between the pads should be neatly trimmed. No other trimming or sculpting of the coat is permitted and is to be so severely penalized as to preclude placement. Havanese should be presented at a natural speed on a loose lead to properly assess the characteristic springy gait.
Faults
The foregoing description is that of the ideal Havanese. Any deviation from the above described dog must be penalized to the extent of the deviation.
Disqualifications
? Height at withers under 8 ½ or over 11 1/2 inches except that the minimum height shall not apply to dogs or bitches under twelve months of age.
? Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the eye rims.
· Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the nose or lips.
? Any color pigmentation other than black or brown on the eye rims, nose or lips.
? A coarse, wiry coat.
? A short, smooth coat with or without furnishings.
Approved Date: August 9, 2011
Effective Date: September 28, 2011
Last Updated on Friday, 23 March 2012 13:55
UKC’s Breed Standard………
copyright 1991, United Kennel Club, Inc.
General Appearance
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog of immense charm. The native dog of Cuba, he is beloved as a friendly, intelligent and playful companion. He is slightly longer than tall, with a long, untrimmed, double coat. The Havanese has a short upper arm with moderate shoulder layback and a straight topline that rises slightly from the withers to the croup. The plumed tail is carried arched forward up over the back. The unique springy gait is a result of the breed’s structure and playful, spirited personality. These characteristics of temperament, coat, structure and gait are essential to type.
Size, Proportion, and Substance
The ideal height is between 9 and 10 1/2 inches, with an acceptable height range from 8 1/2 to 11 1/2 inches. Height at withers under 8 1/2 inches or over 11 1/2 inches is a disqualification, except that the minimum height shall not apply to dogs or bitches under twelve months of age. The height is slightly less than the length from the point of shoulder to point of buttocks, creating a rectangular outline. The Havanese is moderately boned and should never appear coarse or fragile.
Head
The expression is soft, intelligent and mischievous. Eyes are large, dark brown and almond-shaped. Chocolate dogs may have somewhat lighter brown eyes. Eye rims are solid black for all colors except for chocolate dogs which have solid brown eye rims. Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the eye rims is a disqualification. Ears are broad at the base, dropped, and have a distinct fold. They are set high on the skull, slightly above the endpoint of the zygomatic arch. When alert, the ears lift at the base but always remain folded. Ear leather, when extended, reaches halfway to the nose. The skull is broad and slightly rounded. The stop is moderate and the planes of the head are level. The cheeks are flat. Length of muzzle is slightly less than length of skull measured from stop to point of occiput. The muzzle is full and rectangular with a broad nose. The nose and lips are solid black for all colors except for chocolate dogs which have solid brown pigment. Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the nose or lips is a disqualification. Any color pigmentation other than black or brown on the eye rims, nose or lips is a disqualification. Small depigmented areas on lips due to rubbing against canine teeth will not disqualify. A scissors bite is ideal and a full complement of incisors is preferred.
Neck, Topline and Body
The neck is slightly arched, of moderate length, blends smoothly into the shoulders and is in balance with the height and length of the dog. The prosternum is evident but not prominent. The chest is deep, well developed, and reaches the elbow. The straight topline rises slightly from the withers to the croup. Measured from point of shoulder to point of buttocks, the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. This length comes from the ribcage. Ribs are well sprung. The loin is short and well muscled. There is a moderate tuck-up. The tail is high-set and arches forward up over the back. It is plumed with long, silky hair. The tail plume may fall straight forward or to either side of the body. While standing, a dropped tail is permissible. The tail may not be docked.
Forequarters
The tops of the shoulder blades lie in at the withers, allowing the neck to blend smoothly into the back. Moderate shoulder layback is sufficient to carry the head and neck high. The upper arm is short. Elbows are tight to the body and forelegs are straight when viewed from any angle. The length from the foot to the elbow is equal to the length from elbow to withers. Pasterns are short, strong and flexible, very slightly sloping. Dewclaws may be removed. The feet have arched toes and point straight ahead. Pads and nails may be any color.
Hindquarters
The hind legs are muscular with moderate angulation. Hocks are well let down; pasterns are parallel from hock to foot. The croup is slightly higher than the withers. Dewclaws may be removed. The feet have arched toes and point straight ahead. Pads and nails may be any color.
Coat
Silky to the touch, the coat is soft and light in texture in both outer and undercoat, although the outer coat carries slightly more weight. The coat is long, abundant and wavy. It stands off the body slightly, but flows with movement. An ideal coat will permit the natural lines of the dog to be seen. Puppy coat may be shorter and have a softer texture than adult coat. A single, flat, frizzy or curly coat should be faulted. A coarse, wiry coat is a disqualification. A short, smooth coat with or without furnishings is a disqualification. The coat may be corded. Corded coats will naturally separate into wavy sections in young dogs and will in time develop into cords. Adult corded dogs will be completely covered with a full coat of tassle-like cords.
Color
All colors and marking patterns are permissible and are of equal merit. The skin may be any color.
Gait
The Havanese gait is springy. The characteristic spring is the result of the short upper arm combined with the rear drive. Front legs reach forward freely matching the moderate extension in the rear. On the move, the pads may be visible coming or going. The head is carried high and the slight rise in the topline holds under movement.
Temperament
The Havanese is friendly, playful, alert and intelligent with a sweet, non-quarrelsome disposition. Aggression or shyness should be faulted.
Presentation
Havanese should be shown as naturally as is consistent with good grooming. They may be shown either brushed or corded. The coat should be clean and well conditioned. In mature dogs, the length of the coat may cause it to fall to either side down the back but it should not be deliberately parted. Head furnishings are long and untrimmed, and may fall forward over the eyes or to both sides of the head; they may also be held in two small braids secured with plain elastic bands. The braids start above the inside corner of each eye and extend at least to the outside corner, forming the appearance of eyebrows. No other hair accessories are permitted. Minimal trimming of the anal and genital area is permissible but should not be noticeable on presentation. Hair on the feet and between the pads should be neatly trimmed. No other trimming or sculpting of the coat is permitted and is to be so severely penalized as to preclude placement. Havanese should be presented at a natural speed on a loose lead to properly assess the characteristic springy gait.
Faults
The foregoing description is that of the ideal Havanese. Any deviation from the above described dog must be penalized to the extent of the deviation.
Disqualifications
? Height at withers under 8 ½ or over 11 1/2 inches except that the minimum height shall not apply to dogs or bitches under twelve months of age.
? Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the eye rims.
· Incomplete or total lack of pigmentation of the nose or lips.
? Any color pigmentation other than black or brown on the eye rims, nose or lips.
? A coarse, wiry coat.
? A short, smooth coat with or without furnishings.
Approved Date: August 9, 2011
Effective Date: September 28, 2011
Last Updated on Friday, 23 March 2012 13:55
UKC’s Breed Standard………
copyright 1991, United Kennel Club, Inc.
HISTORY
Also known as the “Bichon Havanais” (or ‘Habanero’), and the “Havana Silk Dog”, the Havanese breed is thought to be descended from the Old World Bichon types of small companion dogs, such as the often-painted Italian Bichon of Bologna (the Bolognese) or the Maltese. Over the centuries, interesting variations developed into separate breeds around major port cities of the Spanish Empire. The Havanese breed is the Bichon of Cuba. All published theories of their origin and development seem based on speculation, but it is certain that they were always a small breed which was exclusively owned by the higher social classes.
The Havanese was recognized by the United Kennel Club in July 1991.
GENERAL APPEARANCE
Havanese are the Cuban representatives of the Bichon family of breeds, (all small, long coated and drop eared), which are prized as devoted companion dogs. Havanese coat colors are extremely varied.
Havanese appear rectangular from the side, being much longer from front to rear than they are tall. Havanese are light framed but sturdy dogs that convey a sense of refinement without appearing fragile. Males are slightly more muscular than females.
Faults: Fat or otherwise poorly conditioned dogs.
Serious Fault: Square appearance.
CHARACTERISTICS
Havanese have a quiet and gentle disposition, but enjoy rowdy play sessions. They are affectionate, preferring to be at their owner’s side or in the same room, and will alert their owner to approaching strangers. They enjoy the company of other Havanese. They are intelligent, easy to train and attentive to their handler.
Havanese have an alert, gentle expression produced by the combination of large dark eyes, dropped ears, long fur and an endearing habit of tilting their head when listening.
HEAD & SKULL
It is a balanced wedge shape of moderate size, slightly broad but always refined looking. The skull is a slightly rounded, slightly broad intermediate (mesaticephalic) type with a moderate stop.
The muzzle is balanced above and below the stop; tapering, with flat cheeks. The length of the muzzle is equal to the distance from the stop to the occiput. The lips are clean, tight and fully pigmented (except for the two small areas on the lower lip normally lightened by abrasion from the upper canine teeth).
TEETH – A scissors bite and normal jaw formation are expected. Preference is to be given to a healthy, clean mouth with reasonably uncrowded, untwisted, strong, white teeth.
Fault: Level bite.
Disqualifications: Overshot or undershot bite; wry mouth; severely crowded or twisted teeth.
EYES – Rather large and oval shaped, deep set and dark. Eye rims must be fully pigmented.
Disqualifications: Less than full, dark pigment on eye rims, nose or lips of dogs over 12 weeks of age.
NOSE – Dark and fully pigmented.
EARS – They are set slightly raised on the skull, and have dropped leathers of moderate size, which form a gentle fold.
NECK
The neck is sturdy, of moderate length and is well set into the shoulder region.
FOREQUARTERS
FORELEGS – The front legs are relatively short and light boned, but not fragile. They provide a straight column of support when viewed from the front, are moderately angulated and have good reach. The length of the leg from the foot to the elbow is no longer than the distance from the elbow to the withers, and when standing naturally, the elbow is positioned at the lower edge of the rib cage. The front dewclaws may be removed.
BODY
The straight topline is not level, but rises gradually to the rear. The body, from the prosternum on the forechest to the point of the rump, is about two-thirds longer than the height at the withers. The ribs are well sprung, deep and carried well back. The flanks are tucked up. The loin is strong; the rounded croup is well dropped.
HINDQUARTERS
HIND LEGS – The back legs provide a straight column of support when viewed from the rear, are moderately angulated, normally flexible and deliver strong drive.
FEET
The feet are small, compact and well cushioned, with toes a little elongated. The rear feet are smaller than the front pair. Nails should be kept reasonably short.
TAIL
The tail is set smoothly on the body in a moderate position, and carried over the back.
Serious Faults: Straight or dropped tail.
COAT
The breed’s profuse double coat is very soft. The hair on the head blends the face and ears together, forming a hood onto the shoulders and chest. The hair on the forehead may form a curtain in front of the eyes, depending on the texture and length. For safety reasons, this hair may be held away from the face by unadorned rubber bands. In Conformation events, Judges can require the removal of bands which impede evaluation of the dog.
The long adult coat, which may take two or four years to develop fully, must not touch the ground. The tail is covered with a long, silky plume which blends into the body coat when resting. The coat tends to form narrow sections, or “locks”, which show the unique “lacey” or ric-rac braid effect of hair sectioned and braided when wet. This distinctive wave-style has a wide range of expression, from “quite relaxed” (but not very straight), to a very “tight”, which can be corded. The correct “lacey” effect is most evident on the ears, legs, rump and tail, but if straightened by grooming will take hours to return unless wetted. (The degree of “tightness” in a lacey coat is not to be considered until definitive historical research verifies what was correct, but straight coats are clearly incorrect.)
GROOMING – None of the hair is to be scissored, except: for neatening around the edge of the feet. The tiniest possible trimming is permitted for good hygiene at the inner corner of the eyes, at the vent, and as needed on the belly. The hair between the foot pads must be trimmed to allow safe movement. The hair is not to be parted along the spine. The hair on the forehead may form a curtain in front of the eyes, depending on its texture and length. For safety reasons, this hair may be held away from the face by unadorned rubber bands. In Conformation events, Judges can require removal of bands which impede evaluation of the dog. A small braid starting above each eye and hanging down to the side is a permitted ring alternative. Scissored coats are disqualified, except that the Stud Dog or Brood Bitch class entries may have simple, shortened coats.
Disqualifications: A coarse or wiry coat texture. In adults, the complete absence of guard hairs or undercoat. Scissored coats (trimmed, neatened or molded), except at the edge of the feet or around hygiene areas.
COLOR
All colors are acceptable; singly or in any combination. In fact, great diversity of coloring is this breed’s heritage. Many colors lighten or darken with age or whelping; residual dark tipping may remain. All colors develop a matte appearance.
All pigment on eye rims, nose and lips must be complete and dark. Except for the true chocolate-coated dogs, which have dark brown/liver colored pigment, all other coat colors require jet black pigment.
Disqualification: Albinism.
SIZE & WEIGHT
Havanese stand between 8½ inches and 10½ inches in height, and weigh from 7 to 14 pounds (with mid-size much preferred). Height limits are more important than weight.
Disqualifications: Weight under 7 or over 14 pounds.
GAIT
Havanese have a lively, springy trot. They love fast sprints in a rotary gallop, even using a half-bound to gain a burst of speed; yet they enjoy long, easy walks. They are excellent broad and high jumpers. As speed increases, the dog single tracks.
Serious Fault: Tail not carried over the back when gaiting.
Faults: Hackney gait in front. Padding. Moving too close behind.
ELIMINATING FAULTS
(An Eliminating Fault is a Fault serious enough that it eliminates the dog from obtaining any awards in a conformation event.)
Height under 8½ inches or over 10½ inches.
DISQUALIFICATIONS
Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Viciousness or extreme shyness. Overshot bite. Undershot bite. Wry mouth. Severely crowded or twisted teeth. A coarse or wiry coat texture. In adults, the complete absence of guard hairs or undercoat. Scissored coats (trimmed, neatened or molded), except at the edge of the feet or around hygiene areas. Albinism. Weight under 7 or over 14 pounds. Less than full, dark pigment on eye rims, nose or lips of dogs over 12 weeks of age.
The above Copywrited by UKC…United Kennel Club
Also known as the “Bichon Havanais” (or ‘Habanero’), and the “Havana Silk Dog”, the Havanese breed is thought to be descended from the Old World Bichon types of small companion dogs, such as the often-painted Italian Bichon of Bologna (the Bolognese) or the Maltese. Over the centuries, interesting variations developed into separate breeds around major port cities of the Spanish Empire. The Havanese breed is the Bichon of Cuba. All published theories of their origin and development seem based on speculation, but it is certain that they were always a small breed which was exclusively owned by the higher social classes.
The Havanese was recognized by the United Kennel Club in July 1991.
GENERAL APPEARANCE
Havanese are the Cuban representatives of the Bichon family of breeds, (all small, long coated and drop eared), which are prized as devoted companion dogs. Havanese coat colors are extremely varied.
Havanese appear rectangular from the side, being much longer from front to rear than they are tall. Havanese are light framed but sturdy dogs that convey a sense of refinement without appearing fragile. Males are slightly more muscular than females.
Faults: Fat or otherwise poorly conditioned dogs.
Serious Fault: Square appearance.
CHARACTERISTICS
Havanese have a quiet and gentle disposition, but enjoy rowdy play sessions. They are affectionate, preferring to be at their owner’s side or in the same room, and will alert their owner to approaching strangers. They enjoy the company of other Havanese. They are intelligent, easy to train and attentive to their handler.
Havanese have an alert, gentle expression produced by the combination of large dark eyes, dropped ears, long fur and an endearing habit of tilting their head when listening.
HEAD & SKULL
It is a balanced wedge shape of moderate size, slightly broad but always refined looking. The skull is a slightly rounded, slightly broad intermediate (mesaticephalic) type with a moderate stop.
The muzzle is balanced above and below the stop; tapering, with flat cheeks. The length of the muzzle is equal to the distance from the stop to the occiput. The lips are clean, tight and fully pigmented (except for the two small areas on the lower lip normally lightened by abrasion from the upper canine teeth).
TEETH – A scissors bite and normal jaw formation are expected. Preference is to be given to a healthy, clean mouth with reasonably uncrowded, untwisted, strong, white teeth.
Fault: Level bite.
Disqualifications: Overshot or undershot bite; wry mouth; severely crowded or twisted teeth.
EYES – Rather large and oval shaped, deep set and dark. Eye rims must be fully pigmented.
Disqualifications: Less than full, dark pigment on eye rims, nose or lips of dogs over 12 weeks of age.
NOSE – Dark and fully pigmented.
EARS – They are set slightly raised on the skull, and have dropped leathers of moderate size, which form a gentle fold.
NECK
The neck is sturdy, of moderate length and is well set into the shoulder region.
FOREQUARTERS
FORELEGS – The front legs are relatively short and light boned, but not fragile. They provide a straight column of support when viewed from the front, are moderately angulated and have good reach. The length of the leg from the foot to the elbow is no longer than the distance from the elbow to the withers, and when standing naturally, the elbow is positioned at the lower edge of the rib cage. The front dewclaws may be removed.
BODY
The straight topline is not level, but rises gradually to the rear. The body, from the prosternum on the forechest to the point of the rump, is about two-thirds longer than the height at the withers. The ribs are well sprung, deep and carried well back. The flanks are tucked up. The loin is strong; the rounded croup is well dropped.
HINDQUARTERS
HIND LEGS – The back legs provide a straight column of support when viewed from the rear, are moderately angulated, normally flexible and deliver strong drive.
FEET
The feet are small, compact and well cushioned, with toes a little elongated. The rear feet are smaller than the front pair. Nails should be kept reasonably short.
TAIL
The tail is set smoothly on the body in a moderate position, and carried over the back.
Serious Faults: Straight or dropped tail.
COAT
The breed’s profuse double coat is very soft. The hair on the head blends the face and ears together, forming a hood onto the shoulders and chest. The hair on the forehead may form a curtain in front of the eyes, depending on the texture and length. For safety reasons, this hair may be held away from the face by unadorned rubber bands. In Conformation events, Judges can require the removal of bands which impede evaluation of the dog.
The long adult coat, which may take two or four years to develop fully, must not touch the ground. The tail is covered with a long, silky plume which blends into the body coat when resting. The coat tends to form narrow sections, or “locks”, which show the unique “lacey” or ric-rac braid effect of hair sectioned and braided when wet. This distinctive wave-style has a wide range of expression, from “quite relaxed” (but not very straight), to a very “tight”, which can be corded. The correct “lacey” effect is most evident on the ears, legs, rump and tail, but if straightened by grooming will take hours to return unless wetted. (The degree of “tightness” in a lacey coat is not to be considered until definitive historical research verifies what was correct, but straight coats are clearly incorrect.)
GROOMING – None of the hair is to be scissored, except: for neatening around the edge of the feet. The tiniest possible trimming is permitted for good hygiene at the inner corner of the eyes, at the vent, and as needed on the belly. The hair between the foot pads must be trimmed to allow safe movement. The hair is not to be parted along the spine. The hair on the forehead may form a curtain in front of the eyes, depending on its texture and length. For safety reasons, this hair may be held away from the face by unadorned rubber bands. In Conformation events, Judges can require removal of bands which impede evaluation of the dog. A small braid starting above each eye and hanging down to the side is a permitted ring alternative. Scissored coats are disqualified, except that the Stud Dog or Brood Bitch class entries may have simple, shortened coats.
Disqualifications: A coarse or wiry coat texture. In adults, the complete absence of guard hairs or undercoat. Scissored coats (trimmed, neatened or molded), except at the edge of the feet or around hygiene areas.
COLOR
All colors are acceptable; singly or in any combination. In fact, great diversity of coloring is this breed’s heritage. Many colors lighten or darken with age or whelping; residual dark tipping may remain. All colors develop a matte appearance.
All pigment on eye rims, nose and lips must be complete and dark. Except for the true chocolate-coated dogs, which have dark brown/liver colored pigment, all other coat colors require jet black pigment.
Disqualification: Albinism.
SIZE & WEIGHT
Havanese stand between 8½ inches and 10½ inches in height, and weigh from 7 to 14 pounds (with mid-size much preferred). Height limits are more important than weight.
Disqualifications: Weight under 7 or over 14 pounds.
GAIT
Havanese have a lively, springy trot. They love fast sprints in a rotary gallop, even using a half-bound to gain a burst of speed; yet they enjoy long, easy walks. They are excellent broad and high jumpers. As speed increases, the dog single tracks.
Serious Fault: Tail not carried over the back when gaiting.
Faults: Hackney gait in front. Padding. Moving too close behind.
ELIMINATING FAULTS
(An Eliminating Fault is a Fault serious enough that it eliminates the dog from obtaining any awards in a conformation event.)
Height under 8½ inches or over 10½ inches.
DISQUALIFICATIONS
Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Viciousness or extreme shyness. Overshot bite. Undershot bite. Wry mouth. Severely crowded or twisted teeth. A coarse or wiry coat texture. In adults, the complete absence of guard hairs or undercoat. Scissored coats (trimmed, neatened or molded), except at the edge of the feet or around hygiene areas. Albinism. Weight under 7 or over 14 pounds. Less than full, dark pigment on eye rims, nose or lips of dogs over 12 weeks of age.
The above Copywrited by UKC…United Kennel Club
