Dog Pictures - Havanese Pictures

Known as the national dog of Cuba, the Havanese is related to the Bichon Frise. Originating in the Mediterranean and brought to Cuba by Spanish traders to be presented to Cuba women to encourage trade relations, the Havanese became a symbol of wealth. As such, the little dog became a pampered family pet. This dog was specifically bred for the ruling class and it was never sold; the Havanese was always acquired as a gift. Because of its clowning personality and its desire to be the center of attention, some were trained as performing dogs and in this way gained popularity. During the Cuban Revolution the wealthy families sought refuge and migrated to the United States, but few were able to bring their precious pets. The breed would have most certainly reached extinction if it had not been for one woman......  find out more about this dog breed.