Temperament
A companion dog, it is loving and loyal to its owner and typically happy to see other people, though a few are distrustful of strangers. Chin prefer familiar surroundings, but do quite well in new situations and are often used as therapy dogs because of this trait and their love of people. Very early socialization of Chin puppies leads to a more emotionally well-balanced Chin that is more accepting of different situations and people.The Chin will bark for the purpose of alerting the household to the arrival of a visitor or something out of the ordinary, but are otherwise very quiet.Chin were bred for the purpose of loving and entertaining their people. While typically a calm little dog, they are well known for performing many enjoyable antics such as the "Chin Spin", in which they turn around in rapid circles; dancing on their hind legs while pawing their front feet, clasped together, in the air; and, some even "sing", a noise that can range from a low trill to a higher, almost operatic quality noise, and which sounds much like "woooo".
Size Standards
Height: 7-11 inches
Weight: 4lbs to 15lbs. Typically average 10lbs.
Health
This breed's flattened face contributes to a few Chin suffering from breathing and heart problems, as is common with brachycephalic (short nosed) breeds. Because they are a brachycephalic breed, temperature extremes (particularly heat) should be avoided. Luxating patellas (knees) and heart murmurs are other genetically predisposed conditions for Japanese Chins. The oversized eyes can be easily scratched and corneal scratches or more serious ulcerations can result. Mild scratches benefit from topical canine antibacterial ointment specifically for eye application; more serious injury or ulcerations require urgent medical care. Puppies, as with most small breed dogs, can have a risk of hypoglycemia when under the age of 6 months. This concern can continue in Chin that mature at 4 to 5 pounds or less. Some Chin have seasonal allergies.
Living Conditions/Exercise
The Japanese Chin is a good dog for apartment life. Chins do not require a great deal of exercise. They are moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard supplemented by a few short walks to enrich their daily routine.
Life Expectancy
An average of 9 to 12 years
Care/Grooming
The Chin's coat requires nothing more than brushing or combing twice every week to maintain its appearance, with special attention being given to the skirt and area under the ears and legs. They have no coat odor and do not require frequent bathing. The coat is low maintenance, long, and smooth/silky to the touch. Chin are single-coated and single-hair shedders, much like people, and it is very seldom one will find a Chin with an undercoat. Occasionally, a Chin will have a light blowing of their coat once a year. Without fiber in the diet, they may need to have their anal glands expressed. The oversized eye orbits contribute to moisture about the face and the skin folds in and around the nose and flattened facial area can trap moisture and cause fungal problems. The face should be occasionally wiped with a damp cloth and the folds cleaned with a cotton swab as needed. Diet is an important factor in the health and condition of the Chin, with many Chin being very sensitive or allergic to grains. Maintaining a Chin on a high quality grain free kibble will do much to avoid skin and allergy conditions.
Origin
Originally called the Japanese Spaniel, and still called that name by some clubs, the Japanese Spaniel was renamed "Japanese Chin" by the AKC in 1977. The Japanese Chin is first and foremost bred as a companion dog. Despite the name "Japanese" the breed is native to the land of China. It was later developed in Japan and introduced to Europe in 1700. It became a favorite of Japanese nobility, and was often offered as a royal gift to diplomats and to foreigners who rendered some outstanding service to Japan. In 1853 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.
rESCUING, rehabilitating, AND REHOMING jAPANESE cHINS in need!