Can I let you in on a little secret? Some of the best guard dogs in the business bear no resemblance to the fearsome, muscular creatures you usually envision patrolling your property. It’s true! Take, for example, the Havanese. Standing tall (or should I say short?) at a maximum of 11.5 inches, the Havanese might be able to deter a pigeon, but an intruder? Well, that’s not as preposterous as it sounds! Let’s examine why.
Hailing from the picturesque island of Cuba – yes, they have more than just cigars and vintage cars there – the Havanese breed has a lot to offer beyond a love for salsa dancing!
First and foremost, the Havanese is adored for its unrivaled companionship. This breed thrives on human interaction and is endowed with an affectionate, playful, and energetic temperament. It’s no wonder they’re dubbed the “Velcro dog” – they never leave your side. Quite literally.
But does that make them an effective guard dog? You might argue that the Havanese’s small size and adorable appearance may not strike fear into the hearts of trespassers. While size and appearance are indeed crucial, factors like alertness, intelligence, and loyalty also play indispensable roles. And, boy, does the Havanese score high in those departments!
We’ll kick things off with their alertness. When it comes to being a sentinel, vigilance proves just as valuable as physical toughness. The Havanese has an acute sense of hearing, able to detect unusual sounds that human ears would easily miss. Their low tolerance for solitude means your Havanese is practically always by your side, ready to alert you if something appears amiss.
Next in line is their unrivaled intelligence. The Havanese is incredibly sharp and dexterous, with a fast learning curve. This breed can be trained to perform a myriad of tasks, including keeping an eye out for intruders. While their training may not come as “naturally” as it would for a German Shepherd ot Rottweiler, they’re equipped with the brains to compensate for their initial lack of instinct.
Finally, we have loyalty. If you already share your life with a Havanese, you can testify to their unwavering dedication to their human pack. This breed is fiercely protective of their loved ones. They won’t hesitate to react vehemently when they perceive a threat to you or your family.
Don’t let their small size fool you. These robust, confident dogs are packed full of nerve and determination. They’ll step up and face danger without flinching, all because their humans are at stake.
Nonetheless, calling them guard dogs might be a bit of a stretch. Security dogs, perhaps? While they won’t physically ward off an intruder — their modest size does pose certain limitations — they’re remarkably excellent at being alarm dogs. Their sharp senses will alert you to the presence of a trespasser way before you get that eerie feeling of being watched. In many cases, early detection can make all the difference.
Further, their incessant barking at unfamiliar noises or faces can scare off would-be intruders. Let’s be real: if you’re attempting a stealthy break-in, the last thing you’d want is a yappy pooch blowing your cover!
Of course, training plays a massive role. Taking the time to adequately train your Havanese to react appropriately to potential threats without unnecessary aggression can enhance their utility as a guard dog.
So, is the Havanese a guard dog? In the traditional, intimidating sense, probably not. But with their acute alertness, uncanny intelligence, and unwavering loyalty, they’re one of the finest alarm dogs you can ask for.
But remember, your Havanese is more than just a furry security system. They’re primarily your loving companion, your best friend. They deserve all the love, care, and respect you can give. And in their own little way, they’re sure to stand guard for you, ready to demonstrate their immense courage when danger strikes.
