Japanese Chin: Origin, Temperament, Training, Exercise

(Chin)

Group: Toy

Also known as: Japanese Spaniel

About Japanese Chin

Country of Origin, History of the Breed This breed originated and was developed in China. The Japanese Chin was initially bred for the purpose of accompanying women in the Imperial Palace and as lap dogs for Chinese aristocracy. The Japanese Chin remained in the hands of the upper class, and they were given as gifts to diplomats and foreigners who provided noted services to Japan.

In 1853, Commodore Perry brought the first Chins over to England, and a pair was given to Queen Victoria. Eventually, Chins came to America but there is no record as to their final destination in the United States. This breed was formerly known as the Japanese Spaniel. In 1977, the breed’s name was changed to the Japanese Chin.

Description of the Dog

The Japanese Chin has a small, attractive, short face, a well-balanced body, and a feathered coat. This breed has a thick, silky, soft coat that grows straight from the dog’s body. The Japanese Chin has a plumed tail that rests over the dog’s back and curves over both sides of the body.

Coat

This breed has three types of coat: Black and white, red and white (including orange, lemon, and sable), and black and white with tan points (including tan or red spots over the eyes, inside the ears, or on both cheeks).

The coat of the Japanese Chin is soft, straight, and abundant. The dog’s physical outline is firm and square.

Height: Between 8 and 11 inches.

Weight: Between 4 and 7 pounds.

Personality

The Japanese Chin is alert, intelligent, and lively. This is a small, perky dog with who appears staid, but enjoys running, playing, and climbing. These dogs are gentle, affectionate, clean, and easily housebroken. The Japanese Chin enjoys comfort and likes to cuddle on soft pillows or a guardian’s lap. This breed loves to be pampered.

Temperament of the Dog

This breed is sensitive, intelligent, and loves to be a companion to its guardian. The Japanese Chin tends to be very responsive and affectionate to familiar people, but it can be hesitant to approach strangers. The Japanese Chin co-exists well with other animals. This breed requires consistent companionship, and it may become anxious when left alone.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

The Japanese Chin is well suited to a home or apartment, but it requires exercise, preferably walking, on a daily basis. This breed tends to be easy-going and will accept an outdoor environment. Fencing should be installed if the dog is to be left outside without supervision.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

This breed should only live with older children who are careful not to roughhouse or mistreat the dog. The Japanese Chin is easy-going and loves attention; it is an ideal breed for senior citizens or homes without young children.

How to take care of the Japanese Chin Puppy? Care must be taken with a Japanese Chin puppy early on. They require constant exposure to people, sight, sounds, and companionship. If left alone for long periods of time, the Japanese Chin puppy may become shy or suspicious.

Training

This breed can easily learn new tasks and has a high rate of learning. In addition, the Japanese Chin is obedient and trains well by using consistent words, commands, praise, and rewards. Barking might be an issue and the puppy will need to be trained to reduce it.

Activity Level

The Japanese Chin maintains a high activity level and needs to be walked daily. Also, the dogs need opportunities to run and play. This breed enjoys yard play, but the area must be fenced to prevent the dog’s hunting instincts from leading it into a street or adjacent property.

Grooming

This breed is very clean, but sheds a great deal. As a result, it requires daily combing and brushing to keep fur from accumulating around the home. The dog responds well to a dry shampoo, which only needs to be used when necessary.

Health and Care

The Japanese Chin has a fragile body, and it may develop eye irritations, breathing difficulties, and dislocated kneecaps. The dog’s ears and eyes should be checked and cleaned every day.

Cautions about Breeding the Dog

This breed should be purchased from ethical, reputable breeders only. Ask a breeder for references or research the breeder via the Internet. Do not purchase any animal from a breeder without knowing its reputation.

Litter Size: Between 1 and 3 pups.

Life Span: Between 9 and 10 years.

National Breed Club

In the United Kingdom, the Japanese Chin is promoted by The Japanese Chin Club of America. This organization can be reached via the internet at. http://www.japanesechinclub.co.uk

In the United States, this breed is represented by The Japanese Chin Club, UK. This organization can be reached via the internet at http://www.japanesechinonline.org

Recognition

The Japanese Chin was recognized by the American Kennel Club and The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom in 1888.