Havanese (a bichon type dog) is the national dog of Cuba, developed from the now extinct Blanquito de la Habana ('little white dog of Havana'). The Blanquito descended from the also now-extinct Bichón Tenerife. It is believed that the Blanquito was eventually cross-bred with other bichon types, including the poodle, to create what is now known as the Havanese. These dogs become cold very easily so keeping their coat longer in winter time is essential, especially since these dogs originate from hot weather. A unique aspect of the breed is the topline, which rises just slightly from withers to croup, creating a topline that is straight but not level.