Sunday, November 25, 2012

Contact Genuine Breeders When Looking For Havanese Puppies For Sale

By Tameka Ware


When looking for Havanese puppies for sale, it pays to contact a registered breeder. Being a rare breed, they can be expensive to buy. It can be unwise to buy from pet shops. You will have no guarantee of the quality or health of your new pup.

Many dog-fanciers have been prepared to pay high prices for rare breeds. This has led to the establishment of 'puppy mills' with unscrupulous breeders trying to cash in on the latest fashion. Stud dogs are often kept under atrocious conditions with no attention given to anything other than the breeding capabilities of the animals. By contacting a reputable breeder, you will know that the dogs are treated kindly. Any puppies that are advertised for sale will be healthy and will have had a good start in life. Check that any necessary vaccinations are up to date.

The correct name for the breed is the Bichon (bearded) Havanese. Early in their history, they were known as Spanish Silk Poodles or Havana Silk Dogs. It is believed they were first taken to Cuba by early Spanish explorers and settlers. Through the 18th century, Cuba became the playground of the European aristocracy. The visitors were enchanted by the white lap dogs with their silky coats. With the Cuban revolution, many of the dogs were taken from the country with their owners. The Havanese became rare in its native country. It is now the national dog of Cuba and its only native breed.

The body is firm and solid. Apart from the silky coat, other distinguishing features are the slightly rising top line from shoulders to rump and a high gait, particularly of the front legs. While this gives them good agility, it doesn't make them fast.

The head is carried high. The eyes are large. They are playful, active dogs and will need regular exercise. The unique, silken coat provides good insulation and is ideal in tropical climates. The coat reaches a length of six or eight inches and is extremely profuse, light and soft. The plumed tail is set high. It should coil loosely over the rump.

This is a great little dog for anyone who suffers from dog allergies. There is almost no shedding. Regular grooming is required to remove dander and dead hairs. Maintenance will be easier if the hair is clipped from around the eyes and genitals. In the tropics, the hair on the head was allowed to fall over the eyes in the belief that it stopped the glare.

In kennel clubs, the breed is classed as one of the 'toy' group. Despite being so small, they are rarely timid or fearful. They have been bred to be companions and enjoy the company of people and other pets. They are tolerant of children. The longevity is listed as around 14 years. The standard for show dogs limits the height to around 11 inches.

Havanese are easily trained and enjoy obedience activities. They are also suited to therapy and assistance work. It is rare for the breed to have genetic disorders although some have luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps). The eyes and skin are sometimes affected with various disorders too. By asking a genuine breeder if he has any Havanese puppies for sale, you will know you are getting a healthy animal.




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