Japanese Chin's History

The name of this dog is misleading for identifying the origin of the Japanese Chin. Many people guess the obvious and think this dog come from Japan, but this isn't correct. Also known as the Japanese Spaniel, these dogs are believed to have originated in either China or Korea. The reason for the name Japanese Chin is because these dogs were brought to Japan as high class dogs to be companions to Japanese nobility. Japanese Spaniels were brought to England in the 18th century by commodore Perry. A pair of dogs was given to Queen Victoria as a present. The name of the breed was changed from Japanese Spaniel to Japanese Chin in 1977 by the AKC.

Japanese Chins' Appearance

The Japanese Chin is a small spaniel with two classes: under 7 lbs and over 7 lbs. Because this dog was bred in different ways by different Japanese nobles, weights vary from 4 lbs to 20 lbs. The Japanese Chin's height ranges from 7 to 11 inches. They are considered a short-faced breed, and their head is large in comparison with their body. Japanese Chins come in limited colors: black and white, sable and white, red and white, and tri colored. The Chins tail curls up over their back. Their noses are always black, and nostrils are wide and flared.

Japanese Chin's Temperament

Japanese Chins are first and foremost companion dogs. Japanese Chins are charming and friendly; however these dogs are wary of strangers. This can make them great watchdogs because of their alertness. Because they are small dogs, children must be taught to be gentle with them. These dogs are obedient as long as they are given constant leadership. Japanese Chins have been compared to cats because of their similar traits. Chins are very clean; they wash their faces with their paws. They enjoy resting on high surfaces. Japanese Chins aren't barkers; they only bark to alert their owner of a stranger or unfamiliar situation.

Japanese Chin's Role

Japanese Chins do fine living in apartments, they remain active inside. They are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Japanese Chin dogs make great companions and are great family pets. These dogs can do great without a backyard as long as they are taken on a walk daily for exercise.