They are affectionately known as “Velcro dogs” because of their habit of sticking close to their human’s side. They have been adored by celebrities including Barbara Walters, Jane Fonda, and Venus Williams. Who are they, you might ask? The Havanese, a loveable, hypo-allergenic breed from Cuba. They’re full to the brim with enthusiasm, charm and heart-melting adorableness. But a question, often asked by parents with young children or people hesitant to be dog owners, lingers – is the Havanese aggressive?
Hold on to your seats, because we’re about to dig deep into the temperament and behavior of this fascinating breed.
In the canine world, the Havanese is relatively a new kid on the block. Despite being around for centuries, they’ve gained significant popularity only in the past decades. Known for their silky hair, expressive eyes, and cuddly size, the Havanese, according to the American Kennel Club, ranks 24th in popularity among 195 breeds.
The image that conjures when thinking of the Havanese is far from aggression or dominance. These dogs are often seen in dog shows, sporting their elegant long locks, prancing around with an uncanny grace and cheerfulness that’s almost infectious.
If we’re to judge by their appearances alone, the Havanese seems like the least likely breed to harbor aggression. But as you and I both know, appearances can sometimes be deceiving. So, let’s unravel the truth about their behavior.
Paws’itive Traits of the Havanese
The Havanese have a natural jovial spirit. They’re smart, highly trainable, and generally peaceful. Being socialites, they enjoy the company of people, seeking attention and giving it in equal measure.
The breed’s vivacious nature means they’re always up for playtime. Their fun-loving and lively demeanor makes them great companions, especially for families. Havanese are also extremely adaptable. Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a large backyard, the Havanese will adjust quite well to its living conditions, so long as they’re with their beloved human(s).
Examining The “Aggressive” Label
No dog breed is inherently aggressive. Aggressive behavior in dogs is usually fuelled by factors such as fear, poor socialization, abuse, neglect, territorial anxiety, or health issues.
When it comes to the Havanese breed, they’re probably one of the least aggressive dog breeds you’ll come across. According to the Havanese Club of America, the Havanese do not usually display aggression unless provoked or threatened.
That being said, it’s integral to understand that the Havanese, like all canines, have their own individual temperament and behavior. This means that there could be cases where a Havanese shows less than desirable traits, which might include aggression. However, this is extremely rare and not in line with the breed’s general behavioral pattern.
The Bark Behind the Bite
The Havanese is known to be a vocal breed. Often mistaken for aggression, their bark is more an expression of excitement, curiosity, or loneliness. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the reason for their bark. Most of the time, they’re just signaling for playtime or craving some attention.
A Well-Groomed Havanese is a Happy Havanese
Let’s not forget that the Havanese has a fabulous coat that requires regular grooming. Unkempt, matted hair can cause discomfort, leading to irritability, so ensure their grooming needs are met to avoid unnecessary aggression.
Training: The Key to a Well-behaved Havanese
Start socializing your Havanese at an early age. Exposure to different people, places, and other dogs will help them grow into well-adjusted adults. Plus, ensure that they’re learning basic obedience and manners. A well-trained Havanese is an absolute delight and will rarely display aggression.
So, there we have it. Is the Havanese aggressive? More often than not, the answer is a definite no. Covered in fur and brimming with love, these adorable companions can fill your day with joy and playfulness. However, like any pets, they deserve to be treated with care, respect, and nurture. With proper love and well-rounded training, the Havanese is a fun, loyal, and loving furry friend to any human lucky enough to be their pet parent.
