small Breed Dogs
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Japanese Chin
Toy Breed Dogs
Small Breed Dogs





What you MUST Know Before Getting a Puppy

Forget about the normal list that everyone writes about..."puppy proof your home", "choose the right breed".  The information you must know, goes MUCH deeper than that. This is insider information that no one talks about, the behind-the-scenes info you really must know before you make your choice....Click to Read More
Average Height: 8 - 11 inches (21 - 29 cm)
Average Weight: 4 - 15  pounds (1.81 - 6.8 kg)
Pronounced: Jap-en-EZZ Chin
Group:  AKC Toy
Life Span: 14 Years
Average Litter: 2
Origin: China

Description

The Japanese Chin is a very regal looking small breed dog.  The expression is lively, bright, intelligent, alert and inquisitive.  This dog has a short, broad muzzle and large, wide set eyes with a touch of white in the inner corners, which gives a look of characteristic astonishment.

With a very big range in size from 4 to 15 pounds, no matter the weight, the body is well balanced, square, moderately wide in the chest and with a profusely coated tail which is carried arched up over the back and flowing to either side of the body.

The paws on the Japanese Chin are hare shaped and have feathering on the ends of the toes.  The coat of this small dog is very full, straight, a single coat and very silky with a resilient texture that makes it stand out from the body, especially on the neck, shoulders and chest areas.

Colors

The colors of this small breed are black & white, black & white with tan markings, red & white , sable & white or lemon & white.  Lemon is a beautiful creamy pale yellow color.

Personality

Japanese Chins are sensitive and intelligent small breed dogs whose entire purpose in life seems to be to serve as a loving companion.  This dog is incredibly responsive and affectionate to its human family members.  Shy behavior may appear with people who are unfamiliar or when brought into new situations or environments. In general, this is one big charmer!

Origin & History

It is believed that this breed actually originated in Japan & was then brought into China centuries ago. In 1853, a pair of Chins were given to Queen Victoria.  After WWII, this breed made its way into America.

Health

The Japanese Chin is a fairly healthy little dog!  The majorette of health problems that are sometimes encountered are common to many other toy breeds, such as luxating patella (when the kneecap slips out of place), cataracts and collasped trachea (when the trachea softens or collapses causing breathing difficulty - can often be avoided by using a harness instead of a collar when walking).

Grooming
  • When you give a Japanese Chin a bath, there are a few things to keep in mind:
  • It is best to use the kitchen sink
  • Be careful to not get water into this dog's flat nose (especially if you want your dog to agree to taking a bath in the future)
  • Be sure to wet the fur all the way down to the body so that you can lather appropriately.  This is important, as the coat is very thick
  • Never use human shampoo - this can ruin the coat as the Ph balance is completely different than what is needed
  • Many owners do not realize how much rinsing must be done.  Because the Japanese Chin has such a thick coat, when you finish rinsing out the fur...do it a 2nd time and then all of the soap will be gone!
  • Once done, dry your pup off with a soft towel
  • Then, use a blow dryer on a low setting, and pull the fur into sections with a slicker brush
  • Do not dry the coat all the way!  When it is just a bit damp, stop. Then use a brush and then a comb to go through the coat, carefully checking for any matts or tangles as you go.  These can especially be found in the ear area.
If you do come across a tangle, do not just clip it.  Lather up your hands with dog conditioner and try to work it out with your fingers.  Clipping should only be a last resort.

Females seem to shed more than males and this in turn, causes the males to have fluffier coats.  Once your female Chin is spayed, she will also grow a fuller, bigger coat that many males have.

Daily tooth brushings and nail trimming every 3 weeks should be done to keep this dog well maintained.

Exercise

This small breed dog loves to go for walks and enjoys going to new places to investigate fresh smells.  While this little guy will join in on a game of fetch or chase, it is walking that gives the Japanese Chin the most pleasure...and certainly helps to maintain good health.

Care & Training

Because this dog is small, no matter where the pup falls in the 4 to 15 pound range, training must usually be given for behavior issues.  Due to the Japanese Chin being shy around others beside their human family members, socialization training is vital...as is proper introduction to home, family and any other pets.
If You Already Own a Chin, Click Here For Much More Detailed Information


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