The Havanese is the National dog of Cuba and its only native breed. During the early sixteenth century, the Havanese was traded to Cuba from Spain through the ports on the ports on the Tenerife island. Over time, the Havanese made its way into the houses of the upper class aristocratic families of Cuba.

Over time, the Havanese breed gained charactristics that set them apart from other spanish breeds and made them ideal for the tropical climate of Cuba. Their coat texture is the greatest adaption. Also called the Havana Silk Dog of Spanish Silk Poodle, The Havanese has a raw silk floss, profuse, but extremely light and soft, insulating and protective of harsh tropical rays.

During the Rule of Castro, many Cubans fled the country. Because  they beleived that they would be back soon, most left their dogs in the care of family, friends, and servants. Only a few took Havanese with them. In the end of the 70's, a few Havanese were found and the breed slowly started to come back. Havanese are now a very popular breed and have remained unchanged for the last 150 years.