Country/Date of Origin: Cuba/1700s
It is thought that the Havanese was originally brought to Cuba by the captains of commercial trading ships and used by them as gifts to gain favor with wealthy merchants. The little companion dog soon became a status symbol in upper class homes. The Havanese is most likely one of the bichon group of small, white toy dogs that originated in the Mediterranean region several thousand years ago. The Havanese may have gotten its name because it is often found in a brown color is similar to that of the famous Havana cigar. However, it may simply have gotten its name by association with the port city where it was traded.
FCI Group: 9