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The Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a lively, little dog with a dainty appearance who loves to cavort and play. They have a compact carriage and profuse coat. Their movement is stylish, lifting their feet high when in action, and carrying their tail proudly curved or plumed over their back. Formerly called the Japanese Spaniel, their name was changed to the Japanese Chin in 1977. A gentle and affectionate breed, they are meticulously clean and very easy to house break. If you enjoy an affectionate, playful lapdog then Japanese Chins would make excellent companions.

Other Names: Japanese Spaniel

Height: 9 inches
Weight: 4 - 7 lbs.

Colors: White and black or white and red and white (all shades, including sable, lemon and orange).
Coat: Profuse coat; long, soft and straight.

Temperament: Japanese Chins are intelligent, alert
With Children: Yes, best suited for older children as they will not tolerate rough handling.
With Pets: Yes
Special Skills: Family pet.

Watch-dog: Moderate - may be timid around strangers.
Guard-dog: Very Low

Care and Training: Japanese Chins require daily grooming with a brush or comb. This will keep their coat clean and tangle free. Dry shampoo when necessary. Clean and check ears and eyes daily. Japanese Chins should receive short daily walk and opportunity to play.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Very High, Problem Solving - Very High.

Activity: High
Living Environment: The Japanese Chin is an easy going breed and is well suited for apartment living as long as it is provided with a daily walk.

Health Issues: Breathing difficulties, dislocated kneecaps, low blood sugar, eye irritations, problems whelping.

Life Span: 9 - 10 years
Litter Size: 1 - 3

Country of Origin: Japan
History: There are two theories to the origins of the Japanese Chin, one states that they were derived from the Pekingese-like dogs that were brought to Japan by Zen Buddhist monks from China, the other theory is that they descend from the lap dog of the Emperor of Japan who came from a Korean diplomat. It is known that a pair were presented to Admiral Perry of England in 1853 when they opened up the trade routes to Japan.

First Registered by the AKC: 1888
AKC Group: Toy
Class: Toy
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC (GB), UKC