Enganese -- King Charles Spaniel X Havanese Bichon

		Enganese
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Great Britain <> Cuba -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Enganese

The Enganese is full of energy and vitality. A small dog, its average weight will be between 4.5 and 7 kilos and it will measure between 20 and 35.5 centimeters. Curious, gentle and well-mannered, the Enganese makes a fine addition to the family and is sure to entertain.

History of the Enganese

The hybrid called the Enganese is a new breed of dog with no detailed history, but looking at the parents can give a good picture of the past.

	A little of the King Charles Spaniel
	English Spaniels were once listed as separate breeds based on color (King Charles, Prince Charles, Blenheim and Ruby) for show purposes. The American Kennel Club decided that the four colors should be combined into a single breed called the King Charles Spaniel, a change that took place in 1904. The short muzzle and small stature are thought to have emerged after the Spaniel was bred with the Pug in the early 1900s. Once favored by the nobility, famous owners included Charles I and Charles II, as well as Mary, Queen of Scots.

	Standard of the King Charles Spaniel
	A little of the Havanese Bichon
	The Havanese Bichon owes its name to Cuba's capital, Havana. Part of the Bichon family, it has been suggested that Spanish colonists brought Bichons to Cuba at some point in the 1700s. Historians believe that the Havanese originated from two breeds, each with a long, soft coat and now extinct. Ship manifests from Tenerife, the Canary Islands, to Cuba list the small dogs taken on board by passengers. In 1959, during the Cuban Revolution, several Havanese made their way to the United States. The breed was officially added to the list of the American Kennel Club in 1996.

	Standard of the Havanese Bichon

Appearance of the Enganese

A perky black nose adorns the Enganese's face and dark brown eyes sparkle, giving an indication of its fun-loving personality. This hybrid mix is a small but sturdy dog with straight legs and a bouncy gait. His ears will be medium to long in length and hang close to the side of his head. His dense coat will be on the long side and will be silky and wavy. An arched tail turns over onto its back. Its teeth are small and well defined, and its smile endearing.

Temperament of the Enganese

Not an arrogant dog, the Enganese loves attention and won't hesitate to ask for it. He's by no means irritating, and gets along with practically everyone he meets. Children are well tolerated, but they must be taught to respect this little dog who can break if his tail is pulled or if he is too tight. He can be anxious if you leave him alone for long periods, and he's not a dog that will do well if you work all day. His gentle heart demands a lot of his owner's time, but he'll be more than happy to give you plenty in return.

Needs and activities of the Enganese

This hybrid can live very well in an apartment as long as it gets enough exercise. Two walks a day and a visit to the dog park several times a week will be best and keep your Enganese from getting bored. He can do well in obedience classes, which is another suitable activity. He responds well to being led and likes to know he's doing what he should. Enganese owners say he has an endearing attitude and is always eager to learn.

Maintenance of the Enganese

Being a small breed, the Enganese will need proper dental care. Prone to teething problems and tooth decay, daily brushing is necessary. Its nails can be trimmed twice a month. To keep his coat shiny and full, brush him at least every other day with a pincushion brush and use a comb to gently work your way through tangles. If he needs a bath, make sure you've combed him thoroughly before wetting him so there's no matting. If your Enganese has the long Havanese coat, he may need clipping every 6 to 8 weeks. Make sure his ears are clean and free of dirt and moisture.