Key Points

Learn about the unique traits of the Havanese breed.

• The Havanese is Cuba's only native dog breed and is known for its diverse coat colors and patterns.
• Havanese weigh between 7 and 23 pounds and stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall, distinguishing them from similar breeds.
• With a reputation as easy-to-train dogs, Havanese thrive in social environments and bond closely with their owners.
• Choosing a Havanese may be ideal for families with children due to their patience and affectionate nature.

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Walk into any dog park with a small, fluffy white dog and you’ll hear the same questions: “Is that a Maltese?” or “What a cute Shih Tzu!” For Havanese owners, this case of mistaken identity happens constantly. While these three breeds share certain characteristics—compact size, flowing coats, and devoted personalities—the Havanese stands apart as a truly unique companion with its own fascinating heritage and distinctive traits.

The Havanese: Cuba’s Only Native Breed

The Havanese holds a distinction no other breed can claim: it is Cuba’s only native dog breed and serves as the country’s national dog. This charming companion traces its roots to the 16th and 17th centuries when Spanish colonizers brought small Bichon-type dogs to the Caribbean island. These dogs adapted to Cuba’s tropical climate and eventually developed into what locals called the Blanquito de la Habana, or “little white dog of Havana.”

Over time, crossbreeding with French and German poodles introduced the rainbow of colors seen in modern Havanese. Unlike their ancestors, today’s Havanese appear in virtually every color and pattern imaginable—from pure white to deep black, with chocolate, cream, gold, silver, and striking multi-colored combinations. This variety of coat colors immediately sets the Havanese apart from the always-white Maltese.

The breed nearly vanished following the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Fleeing families could rarely bring their beloved pets, and only eleven Havanese dogs made it to the United States with their owners. Remarkably, nearly all Havanese outside Cuba today descend from these eleven dogs—a testament to dedicated breeding efforts that brought the breed back from the brink of extinction.

Physical Differences That Set Breeds Apart

Size provides the first clue when distinguishing these breeds. Havanese typically weigh between 7 and 23 pounds and stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Shih Tzus overlap slightly in height but tend toward the heavier end, ranging from 9 to 16 pounds. Maltese are the smallest of the three, rarely exceeding 7 pounds, with a more delicate bone structure.

Facial structure reveals more dramatic differences. Shih Tzus possess the characteristic brachycephalic (flat-faced) appearance with a pushed-in nose and widely spaced eyes. This facial structure can make them prone to breathing issues and heat sensitivity. Havanese and Maltese both have longer muzzles, though the Havanese head tends to be broader with a more pronounced stop—the indentation between the forehead and muzzle.

The Havanese coat deserves special attention. While all three breeds sport long, flowing hair rather than fur, the Havanese coat is distinctively lightweight and silky, designed to insulate against tropical heat rather than cold. Many owners describe it as feeling like raw silk—soft yet substantial. Maltese coats hang straight and heavy like sheets of white satin, while Shih Tzu coats grow dense and refuse to drape, creating a bushier appearance.

Perhaps most telling is the Havanese gait. These dogs move with a characteristic bounce—a springy, almost prancing step that remains throughout their lives. Watch a Havanese approach and you’ll notice this distinctive movement immediately.

🐾 Havanese Age Calculator

Discover your Havanese’s age in human years

Temperament: Where the Real Differences Shine

Trainability represents one of the most significant differences between these breeds. Havanese earned their historical reputation as circus performers for good reason—they are among the easiest toy breeds to train. They are intelligent and learn quickly, retain commands well, and genuinely enjoy the training process throughout the entire puppy to adult process. This eagerness to please stands in stark contrast to the Shih Tzu's legendary stubbornness. Many owners describe Shih Tzus as independent thinkers who train on their own schedule.

All three breeds bond strongly with their families, but the Havanese takes attachment to another level. Breed enthusiasts use the term "velcro dog" because Havanese follow their owners from room to room, maintaining constant proximity. While this devotion delights many owners, it can lead to separation anxiety when these dogs are left alone. Maltese, while affectionate, often maintain more independence. Shih Tzus fall somewhere between, attaching firmly but tolerating solitude better than Havanese.

Social temperament varies considerably among the breeds. Havanese typically greet strangers, children, other dogs, and even cats with enthusiasm and warmth. Maltese and Shih Tzus can be more reserved with unfamiliar people, and Maltese in particular may not tolerate the unpredictable movements of young children.

When it comes to vocalizing, Shih Tzus have a reputation for barking frequently—sometimes just to hear their own voices. Havanese bark with purpose, alerting to unusual activity or engaging during play, but rarely become nuisance barkers. Maltese fall somewhere in the middle.

Making the Right Choice

Understanding these differences helps prospective owners choose the breed that fits their lifestyle. Families with children often gravitate toward the sturdy, patient Havanese. Those seeking a portable, elegant companion might prefer the diminutive Maltese. And someone wanting an independent spirit in a small package may find the Shih Tzu's personality appealing.

The Havanese's combination of trainability, social warmth, and adaptability has propelled it from near extinction to becoming one of the most popular breeds in America. That springy bounce, those expressive eyes, and that silk-like coat create a package unlike any other small companion—and one that Havanese owners wouldn't trade for anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Havanese breed unique compared to Maltese and Shih Tzus?

The Havanese is unique due to its status as Cuba's only native dog breed, its distinctive silky coat, and its exceptional trainability. Unlike Maltese and Shih Tzus, Havanese dogs have a broader head and a springy gait, making them easily recognizable. Additionally, their social temperament and strong attachment to owners set them apart.

How do the sizes of Havanese, Maltese, and Shih Tzus compare?

Havanese typically weigh between 7 and 23 pounds and stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall, while Maltese usually weigh under 7 pounds and are the smallest of the three. Shih Tzus range from 9 to 16 pounds and are generally heavier than Havanese, showcasing a slight overlap in height but a more robust build.

Are Havanese dogs good for families with children?

Yes, Havanese dogs are known for their sturdy and patient nature, making them excellent companions for families with children. Their friendly disposition and eagerness to interact with kids contribute to a positive family dynamic. However, supervision is always recommended to ensure safe play.

What is the trainability of Havanese compared to Shih Tzus?

Havanese dogs are among the easiest toy breeds to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. In contrast, Shih Tzus are known for being more stubborn and independent, which can make training more challenging. This difference in trainability can influence a prospective owner's choice based on their training preferences.

Do Havanese dogs bark frequently?

Havanese dogs typically bark with purpose, alerting their owners to unusual activity or engaging during play, but they are not considered nuisance barkers. This behavior contrasts with Shih Tzus, who are known for barking frequently, often just for attention. Maltese dogs fall somewhere in between, with moderate barking tendencies.