<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> Despite his name, the Japanese Chin probably originated in Korea or China and was later developed in Japan. The breed became a favorite of the Japanese Court , and was often offered as a royal gift. A pair of these dear little companion dogs was given by Commodore Perry to Queen Victoria in 1853 when he returned from his historic mission to open Japan to world trade. The breed was renamed by the AKC in 1977; earlier it was registered as the Japanese Spaniel. Regardless of name, this breed has always been, first and foremost, a companion dog.
<b>Description:</> The Japanese Chin is a dainty little spaniel with a short, broad face, and a soft, feathered coat. A thick ruff covers the neck and chest. The forehead is quite round, with a well-defined stop. The nose is wide and the nostrils open. Black-and-white Chins must have black noses. In other dogs, the nose color should match the color of the coat markings. The expressive, protruding eyes are dark and almond shaped. The teeth form a level or undershot bite. The V-shaped feathered ears are pendant. The body has about the same height as length. The front legs are straight and fine-boned. The coat comes in white with colored patches, most often black, but sometimes red, yellow, orange, sable or brindle. The feathered tail curls up over the back. There are two classes of Japanese Chin, under 7 pounds and over 7 pounds. Smaller dogs are preferred. The Japanese Chin has an elegant high-stepping gait.
<b>Notes:</> Like many short-faced breeds, the Japanese Chin is prone to eye and respiratory problems and heat prostration. Tends to wheeze and snore. Some bloodlines are prone to distemper; a veterinarian may choose to adjust the immunization schedule. More obedient than many of the Toys. Somewhat fragile and sensitive to extremes of temperature. Clean the eyes frequently.
<b>Personality:</> Amiable and lively companion. Loving and devoted. Mild mannered. Elegant and charming, yet playful. Sensitive. Agile and dainty. Clean. Intelligent; a very good dog for learning tricks.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Loves everyone.
<C>Trainability:</C> Easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> Low.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Not a barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Extensive grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Feathered coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Very little exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A good jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Moderately active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Short (under 10 years).
<b>Talents:</> watchdog, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> JAPANESE CHIN
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
