Description
The Japanese Spaniel is also called the Japanese Chin or Chin. It is a dainty little spaniel with a short,
broad face, and a soft, feathered coat. A thick ruff covers the neck and chest. The forehead
is quite round, with a well-defined stop. The nose is wide and the nostrils open. It has an extremely short
nasal canal. Black & white Japanese Spaniels must have black noses. In other dogs, the nose color should
match the color of the coat markings. The expressive, protruding eyes are dark and almond- shaped. The
teeth form a level or undershot bite. The upside-down, v-shaped ears are well covered with hair.
The body is about the same length as it is high. The front legs are straight and fine-boned. The coat
comes in white with colored patches, most often black, but sometimes red, yellow, orange, sable
or brindle. The feathered tail curls up over the back. The Japanese Spaniel has an elegant
high-stepping gait.
Temperament
The Japanese Spaniel is a charming, lively, and happy animal. Pleasant, loving, intelligent, affectionate
and extremely devoted to its master. This breed loves everyone. With its gentle ways and charming manners,
it is perhaps best suited to homes in which there are no small children. If you do have small children, teach
them to be nice and gentle with the dog. They are good with other dogs and pets. The Japanese Spaniel
has a mind of its own and likes to be the center of attention. This breed is not a barker. Mild mannered,
elegant, yet playful. Sensitive, agile, dainty and clean. This breed is more obedient than most toy breeds
and are good dogs for learning tricks. They are also good watchdogs.
Height, Weight
Height: 7-11 inches
Weight: up to 12 pounds
Health Problems
Like many short-faced breeds, the Japanese Spaniel tends to wheeze and snore. They are prone to eye
and respiratory problems and heat prostration. Some lines are prone to distemper. Your veterinarian
may choose to adjust the immunization schedule.
The Japanese chin is a rather healthy dog but is prone to heart disease, dyspnea and dislocated knees.
Living Conditions
The Japanese Spaniel is a good dog for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and will do
okay without a yard. This breed is somewhat sensitive to temperature extremes.
Exercise
Chins do not require a great deal of exercise, but they do enjoy daily walks and an opportunity to play
in the open yard.
Life Expectancy
An average of 12 to 14 years
Grooming
A few minutes each day will keep the coat looking beautiful. Comb out tangles and brush lightly, lifting the
hair to leave it standing out a little. A professional dog groomer can show you the correct technique. Clean
the eyes every day and check the ears regularly for any signs of infection. Dry shampoo occasionally and
bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
Despite its name, the Japanese Spaniel is probably native to Korea - the breed later being developed in Japan
and introduced to Europe in 1700. It became a favorite of Japanese Court, and was often offered as a royal gift.
Its greatest moment of popularity came in 1853 when a pair was given as a gift to Queen Victoria
from Commodore Perry when he returned from his historic mission to open Japan to world trade. The
Japanese Spaniel was renamed "Japanese Chin" by the AKC in 1977. Regardless of the name,
the breed has always been, first and foremost, a companion dog. Some of the Japanese Spaniel's
talents include: watch-dogging and performing tricks.
Pet's promise: "A pet's love is true right from the start. Through good times and bad, like sharing one heart."
- author unknown
A 501(c)3 approved non-profit, rescue & re-homing organization for Japanese Chin - both purebred & mix.