Japanese Chin
Quick facts
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AKC Group: | Toy |
| Height: | 8 – 11 inches | |
| Weight: | 4 - 7 pounds, | |
| Colors: | Red and white , black and white, or black and tan and white | |
| AKC recognized in: | 1888 | |
Fine-boned and dainty, the Japanese Chin have a curious nature about them, reflected in its Oriental-like face and characteristics. Royal blood seems to flow in their veins, commanding pampering and other trappings from its masters.
Another breed with a storied past, the Japanese Chin held court within the Japanese Imperial Family's palace and considered a gift of the highest degree when offered one. Its popularity soared when at 1853, Queen Victoria was proffered one, sealing symbolically the relations of Japan with Britain for centuries to come.
This level of appreciation was further cemented when the Japanese Chin was honored as one of the Land of the Rising Sun's national symbols. In the present, quite a number of enthusiasts and followers of the Japanese Chin are present in the United States, but it is in Japan where this breed truly feels at home with its numerous adorers.
Originally classified as the Japanese Spaniel, the American Kennel Club changed the name to the Japanese Chin in 1977.
An average shedder, the Japanese Chin has a thick coat composed of silky straight hair. The tail and ears are feathery in consistency and its fur gets more profuse and puffed around its chest and neck.
Temperament
| Affection |  |
| Cold Tolerance | |
| Ease of Training | |
| Energy level | |
| Exercise Requirements | |
| Friendliness : Children | |
| Friendliness: Other Animals | |
| Friendliness: Other Pets | |
| Grooming Requirements | |
| Heat Tolerance | |
| Playfulness | |
| Protection Ability | |
| Watchdog Ability | |
The Japanese Chin is highly intelligent, a great lover of its family, and very pleasant and light natured to be with.
True empaths, the Japanese Chin are adept at reflecting the moods and social climates of the people around them. Deeply devoted to a fault, they do not fear getting hurt in the rough play of children, but it is best to keep them in the company of restrained, more controlled children.
If their nature is to be the gauge, it would seem that centuries of being in the Japanese Imperial Palace has imbued the Japanese Chin with the gentle yet imposing character typical of royalty. Very good with other dogs, this breed thrives in attention and adoration.
Although minimal barkers, the Japanese Chin make great watchdogs, making up for their lack of loquaciousness with hyperactivity when there is danger or suspicious persons lurking about.
Health and Exercise
Japanese Chins live an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
As with all dogs, the eyes and ears need to be periodically checked and cleaned. The Japanese Chin, having a short muzzle, is prone to respiratory problems, but such illnesses are manageable if daily checking is maintained to make sure it is in tiptop shape. Heat pronation is another danger, so keep them cool and not unnecessarily heated.
To keep their coat from tangling and matting, daily brushing and combing is recommended in the care of the Japanese Chin. Requiring a specific manner or technique of brushing, it would be wise to consult a seasoned pet groomer for tips on how to go about grooming this dainty breed. Along with this knowledge, bathing and shampooing is only necessary when the dog is really soiled, which would be rare, as this breed rarely gets into dirty situations.
Visitor Comments
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