Alternate Names
Japanese Spaniel
Appearance:
Body: Square, compact, and well-balanced with a short, straight back, broad, deep chest, and slightly rounded loins.
Coat: Straight, long, thick and silky.
Color: Black and white, red and white, black and white with tan spots.
Ears: Small and v-shaped, set high, carried slightly forward, and well-feathered.
Eyes: Large, dark, wide set and radiant. Expressively alert and intelligent.
Feet: Hare-footed (center toes longer than other toes) and feathered.
Head: Large, square, and well proportioned. Skull is broad and rounded in the front but not domed, stop is well-defined, face is flat, and muzzle is short and wide, nose is wide with open nostrils.
Neck: Moderate length, not too thick, and well-set to the shoulders.
Legs: Forelegs are straight, lightly boned, and closely set. Hindquarters are lightly boned, legs straight, and bend of stifle is moderate.
Size:
Height is 8 – 11 inches
Weight is 4 – 11 pounds
Tail: High set, thickly coated, well-feathered and carried upward over the back falling to either side.
Behavior
Recommended for novice dog handlers.
Little or no body odor.
Shed continuously.
Good with children and other family pets.
The Japanese Chin is a small dog, regal in appearance, graceful and high-stepping, sensitive, and intelligent, with definite likes and dislikes. He’s spirited, proud, and affectionate, as well as cat-like in his cleanliness, his playfulness, and his desire to be up on the backs of sofas and other high perches. He loves comfort and is good with children and other pets.
AKC Standards say, “Japanese Chin are good companions, bright, alert, smart, and determined. Naturally clean and playful, they make ideal pets for young and old alike, and are happiest when with their owners. The breed is known for being a bit stubborn but is quick to learn, as long as the dogs think it is their idea.”
The Japanese Spaniel is bright and quick to learn but will easily become bored with repetitious training methods. Obedience training should be positive, full of praise and treat-type rewards, but most of all varied and challenging. Early socialization is important or he may become timid around strangers and visitors.
He is often the dog of choice for senior citizens.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Toy Group
Used as companion dogs for royalty and often given as gifts to aristocrats.
Care and Grooming
Exercise: Moderate exercise such as a casual walk and some play time is enough. The Chin loves to play and will often go until he drops.
Grooming: Brush three to four times weekly, more often when shedding. Keep his ear canals clean and dry. Clean eyes one to two times weekly with a cotton swab or soft cloth dampened in hot water.
Health
Life Expectancy: 12 – 13 Years
Possible problems:
Heart disease – heart murmurs
Heat Stroke
Hypoglycemia – low blood sugar.
Luxating Patellas – dislocated knees.
Respiratory problems – due to his short face.
Chins often have negative reactions to anesthesia, vaccinations, and other drug related treatments. Check with your veterinarian before administering flea and tick medications.
Recommended Certificates:
CERF – for the eyes
Country of Origin
Japan