What is "Flash of Pad"? The Definition: The unique gait of a Havanese, contributed to by their rising topline & short upper arm creates a "flash" of the bottom of the foot when in motion. This flash, while sometimes easier to view through still photography frames, is one of the most unique characteristics of the Havanese breed and is included in the HCA Breed Standard utilized by the AKC: International, Spanish, Portuguese and Gibraltar Ch. Basadam Raving Cool Colors de Cubanitas International, SUCH, Portuguese, Spanish, Gibraltar Ch and Junior Gibraltar Ch Cubanitas Forget-Me-Not Gait The Havanese gait is lively, elegant, resilient, and unique, contributing greatly to the breed's overall essential typiness. The characteristic "spring" is caused by the strong rear drive combined with a "flashy" front action effected by the short upper arm. While a truly typey dog is incapable of exaggerated reach and drive, the action does not appear stilted or hackneyed. The slightly higher rear may cause a correctly built specimen to show a flash of pad coming and going. The front legs reach forward freely. There is good extension in the rear and no tendency toward sickle hocks. The topline holds under movement, neither flattening nor roaching. Head carriage is typically high, even on the move." Special Thanks go to Regina Tolosa for her photos of Sarah & Chiqui.