Hava-Welsh

Havanese Cuban Bichon, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer, Bichon Habanero

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Hava-Welsh is a hybrid dog breed created by crossing a Havanese with a Welsh Terrier. The Havanese, a toy breed, typically weighs between 7 and 13 pounds, while the Welsh Terrier is a more robust medium breed, usually weighing around 20 to 22 pounds. As a result, the size of a Hava-Welsh can differ based on which parent’s characteristics are more dominant. This hybrid can exhibit a range of colors, such as white, black, black and tan, sable, and grey. The Welsh Terrier is known for its tough, wiry coat complemented by a soft, short undercoat, while the Havanese features a long, thick, silky coat that may be straight or curly. Both parent breeds are recognized for being hypoallergenic and shedding minimally, indicating that the Hava-Welsh is likely to inherit these traits. This breed is anticipated to be an active and playful companion, celebrated for its intelligence and enthusiasm for physical activities.

Breed Origin

The Hava-Welsh is a hybrid dog breed that emerges from the combination of a Havanese and a Welsh Terrier, the latter being one of the oldest dog breeds still present in the United Kingdom. Often called a Welshie, the Welsh Terrier has its origins in Wales but was also prevalent in various parts of the UK during the 19th century. This breed is considered one of the earliest Terriers, originally developed for hunting foxes, otters, and badgers, with the Old English Black and Tan Terrier believed to be one of its ancestors. Initially classified as an Old English Terrier, the breed received official recognition as a Welsh Terrier from the Kennel Club of England in 1885. It arrived in the United States in 1888, shortly after being acknowledged by the American Kennel Club. Notably, Caroline Kennedy was an admirer of this breed and owned a Welsh Terrier named Charlie. Conversely, the Havanese is celebrated as the national dog of Cuba, despite nearly facing extinction during the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Formerly known as the Havana Silk Dog, the Havanese is thought to have descended from a mix of the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana and other Bichon breeds. These dogs likely traveled to Cuba on ships during the Spanish Empire and were cherished by Cuban aristocrats as beloved companions, often exchanged among the gentry. By the mid-1800s, the breed gained traction in Europe, where it was favored by royalty, including Queen Victoria, who owned two. Unfortunately, both World Wars and the Cuban Revolution brought the breed to the brink of extinction. Thankfully, a small number of Havanese dogs were brought to the United States, where they received official recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1996. This breed is also known by several other names, including the Havanese Cuban Bichon, Bichon Havanês, Havaneser, Havanezer, and Bichon Habanero.

Breed Appearance

The Hava-Welsh is a hybrid dog breed created by crossing a Havanese with a Welsh Terrier. Its physical characteristics can differ widely, depending on which parent’s traits are more dominant. This breed commonly showcases a variety of colors, including white, black, black and tan, sable, and grey. The Welsh Terrier is known for its tough, wiry outer coat complemented by a soft, short undercoat, while the Havanese is recognized for its luxurious, silky fur, which can be long, straight, or curly. Typically, Havanese dogs have dark brown, almond-shaped eyes and a sturdy build, often appearing completely white with tails that curl over their backs. Their ears tend to be droopy and folded. On the other hand, the Welsh Terrier features a brick-shaped face with whiskers and a beard, along with a robust physique. Its eyes are either dark brown or black, and it has small, V-shaped ears, with a tail that is often docked. Your Hava-Welsh may take on more characteristics from one parent than the other, but it will certainly display a vibrant and intelligent personality, drawing attention wherever it goes.

Care Routine

The Hava-Welsh is anticipated to be hypoallergenic, much like its parent breeds, making it an ideal option for those with allergies. Given that both parent breeds experience minimal shedding, it is unlikely that the Hava-Welsh will shed significantly either. The Havanese often sports a short clip, which makes grooming easier; however, if the coat is allowed to grow longer, it will necessitate more frequent brushing. Welsh Corgis also require regular brushing to prevent tangles and typically need professional grooming for coat stripping. To avoid matting, brushing daily to weekly may be necessary. Furthermore, it’s important to regularly brush your dog’s teeth to support dental health and to check their ears for dirt or tangles. Lastly, don’t forget to assess their nails to see if they need trimming.

Behavior & Temperament

The Hava-Welsh is anticipated to be a spirited and loving companion, flourishing in a family setting and exhibiting a gentle demeanor with children. While the Welsh Terrier may show some stubbornness during training, their intelligence suggests that, with a bit of patience—an essential trait that may also apply to your hybrid—training success is within reach. In contrast, the Havanese is generally easy to train, making both parent breeds ideal for novice dog owners. Renowned for their energetic nature, Havanese dogs are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because of their desire to stay close to their humans. They dislike being left alone for long periods, which can result in separation anxiety, so they do best in homes where someone is usually around. The Welsh Terrier is characterized by a lively personality and an unquenchable zest for life, making them an excellent fit for an active family. The Hava-Welsh is likely to be friendly with other dogs and welcoming to strangers. Inheriting traits from its parent breeds, your hybrid will relish being by your side, eager to join you on all your adventures.

Play & Exercise

A Hava-Welsh thrives on regular exercise to maintain both its health and happiness. This breed loves outdoor pursuits like walking and hiking, along with playful activities. Although they are smaller in size, the Havanese parent requires a good amount of physical activity and has a strong affinity for dog sports such as agility, flyball, and obedience training. Welshies are equally energetic and excel in various canine sports. They are frequently involved in search and rescue missions and often serve as therapy dogs. If they don’t get enough exercise, Hava-Welshes may engage in undesirable behaviors like digging and excessive barking. While this hybrid can adapt to living in an apartment, it is vital to implement a regular exercise schedule. Moreover, they are not well-suited for extreme weather conditions, so it’s important to keep them indoors and avoid leaving them outside for long periods during severe weather.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

3.0 Cups

Daily Activity

45 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

United States

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Wiry

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Height & Weight

Weight

14 lbs (6 kg)

Male: 15 lbs (7 kg) , Female: 13 lbs (6 kg)

Height

12 inches (30 sm)

Male: 13 inches (33 sm) , Female: 12 inches (30 sm)