Japanese Chin Breed Description

Introduction

Also known as the Japanese Spaniel, these dogs are similar to the Pekingese but probably evolved from the Tibetan Spaniel. Japanese Chins are charming, lively and happy dogs. Loving and intelligent, they have a mind of their own and like to be the center of attention. These dogs are more obedient than most toy dogs. They do make good watchdogs but are not good with small children. Grooming a few minutes a day will keep their coat looking beautiful. These dogs weigh a maximum of 9 lbs. and stand 7 to 11" at the shoulders.

History

By the time Commodore Perry brought the Japanese Chin to England and gave a pair to Queen Victoria in 1853, the breed had been the selection of the royal court of China for centuries. The Chin was developed in China to be the perfect lap dog and companion to members of the Imperial Court. The small dogs quickly achieved popularity and from England made their way to the U.S. As with many breeds, the First World War interrupted breeding activities. The dogs already in England and the States helped maintain the breed’s population. The breed was known as the Japanese Spaniel until 1977 and some still refer to them that way to this day.

General Appearance

These distinctive looking toy dogs are small and square, with long, straight silky white fur that has either black or red markings; they can also be black and white with tan points. The hair stands out somewhat from the body, and is thicker around the shoulders and chest, forming a mane. The thickness repeats at the rump, creating ‘pants’ of dense fur. Head and muzzle hair is short and fine, except for the ears. The foreleg hair blends into dense feathering on the backs of the legs. They are single coated, and despite the fur’s length it is not particularly prone to matting. The broad skull has a wide short muzzle. Large shiny round eyes are always dark; they are wideset. The AKC Standard notes that Chins have a small amount of white visible in the inner corner of their eyes, “that gives the dog a look of astonishment.” Whether black or red, the animal’s markings are evenly patterned on the face. Ears are part of the head’s round contour and are feathered all around. Between the ears the skull is not domed, but definitely is round. The forehead repeats that roundness to eye level. Cheeks are well-cushioned; noses are short with wide open nostrils. Nose leather will match markings (black in the black and white dogs, self-colored or black in the red and white dogs). They have wide jaws leading to surprisingly thick neck that is held alert, placing the head up high. The shoulders are square, and the ribs arch roundly. The tail is set high on the dog’s rump and is carried up and over the back, draped to either side. Legs are straight, close set to the body. Hare feet are feathered at the ends of the toes when the dog is mature.

Temperament

Chin are often described as cat-like because of their unique ability to climb in ways we normally associate with felines. You’ll find the dog draped across the back of your sofa, or up on the kitchen counters as a result of this skill! They also self-groom in ways reminiscent of cats – licking their paws and washing themselves with them. As with cats, this can lead to hairballs.

These are smart and lively animals that are devoted to their people. They train easily and can be taught a variety of tricks. Natural hams, they will perform for anyone appreciative of their antics.

In a word, delightful! Unlike a lot of toy dogs, Chin are easy to live with, and often people who have little affinity for dogs find themselves head over heels in love with a Chin. They are hands-on dogs, requiring constant companionship and will not thrive if they are left alone for long periods of time. They do not have the ‘yappy’ high pitched barks that many find offensive in small dogs. Their sturdy body and long legs enable them to keep pace with their people; many also climb indoors much like cats, which makes for a lot of entertainment for their families to watch.

Health and Care

The Chin will not develop its mature coat until it is more than a year old; your breeder will explain the stages of fur development. Like other short-muzzled breeds, they backsneeze and snort regularly to clear their airways. This is normal and not to be confused with allergies or illness. They do best in temperate climates and have a hard time breathing when it is excessively hot or humid. Brushing gently once or twice a week will remove debris and any snarls. Owners and breeders advise that a bath finishing with a crème rinse will keep the hair glossy and tangle free. Keep the hair on the feet, particularly the toes, trimmed. Try acclimating your Chin to teeth brushing when it is a puppy but do not pursue if your animal is terribly upset by it – the breed is known for having little tolerance to humans poking around in its mouth, so this might be best left for your veterinarian or groomer. Use a halter rather than a collar to keep your Chin more comfortable on the leash.

Colors

Black and white, red and white, or black and white with tan points.

Living Area

The Japanese Chin is very good for apartment living. Its quiet and well behaved manners make this one of the best choices for apartment dwellers.Owners should be aware that even though the breed is gentle and charming it is perhaps best suited to homes in which there are no small children. If there are small children in the home they should be instructed to be gentle with the dog. This breed is not a barker but they will bark when alerted to strangers. For this reason they can make good watchdogs.This is one breed that will do well without a back yard to play. They can live happily indoors and they can find enough activity to stay fit.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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