The Havanese are a light-framed, but nevertheless sturdy "toy" dog. While their features may conveya look of refinement, this should not be confused with having fragile structure.

 The Havanese have short, well-muscled legs and are slightly longer in body than they are tall.  Their overall frame appears more rectangular than square.

This breed is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.  The Havanese is a non-shedding, odorless, hypo-allergenic dog.

The Havanese eyes are almond shaped, very dark brown.They are large, but not bulging. The eye-rim color is also dark brown to black, making them appear even larger and more engaging. Their expression reflects intelligence as well as an air of mischieviousness.

The height of the Havanese ranges from about 8 1/2"to 11 1/2" at the withers (highest point of the shoulder blade on the back). Their weight range is generally from 7 to 13 pounds.

The unique coat of the Havanese is thought to reflect centuries in the tropics, perhaps protecting them from the heat. They possess a double-coat which is remarkably soft and light in texture throughout.  Their coats are neither harsh nor wooly, but rather silky and slightly wavy.

The Havanese coat is long, but does not touch the ground. The show coat is not scissored. However some trimming is necessary on the feet between the pads and to neaten the rounded look of each foot.  Other clipping may be done for hygienic purposes around the anal and gental areas.

Dead hair must be removed from Havanese coat by brushing at least several times each week. This regular grooming procedure is necessary to prevent matting and tangling.

The Havanese breed has a wide array of colors.