The Japanese Chin, or Japanese Spaniel as he is also known, is a lively, aristocratic toy dog with a very distinctive Oriental expression. Bred with the sole purpose of being a companion, the Japanese Chin is intelligent, alert, and inquisitive. He is also very responsive and affectionate with those he knows but may be reserved with strangers. In Japan, the Chin breeds are considered royalty and descendants of Chinese aristocracy. It is believed that the Chin breed originated in China centuries ago and was eventually brought into Japan through gift giving to Japanese royalty. The general belief is that the breed shares its ancestry with that of the Pug and the Pekingese.
The Chin has a single, profuse, silky, soft and straight coat with a plumed tail. His colouring is either black and white, red and white, or black and white with tan points.
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Health Issues:
The Japanese Chin is generally a healthy breed and the majority of health problems found in the Chin are common to toy breeds in general. The most common problems seen are Luxating Patellas, Cataracts, and early-onset heart murmurs.
If you are considering the adoption of a Japanese Chin puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC JAPANESE CHIN VIDEO
17 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
Available from Dogwise.com |
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Grooming:
The Japanese Chin's single coat is not prone to matting and, therefore, is easily groomed. Weekly brushing and a regular bath help keep the coat shining. During periods of shedding, more frequent brushing may be required.
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information, tips and techniques on grooming along with listings of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Japanese Chin, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on various sports and activities, including agility, flyball, conformation, and much more, along with listings of non-breed specific Clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section includes information and listings of organizations who are involved with various working dogs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police K9s, and Search and Rescue Dogs.
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