Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin, also called the Japanese Spaniel, is a toy breed from Japan. It is a lap dog and companion, and was bred to be kept by royalty.

History

Most accounts agree that the dogs behind the Chin came originally from China, but how they reached Japan is much debated. One story says they were a gift to the Japanese court in AD 732 from Kim Jangson, an envoy of the Korean kingdom of Silla. Others say they were given to the Empress of Japan as early as the middle of the sixth century, or by the seventh. Still others put the Chin’s arrival at about the year 1000.

The Chin was brought to England in 1613. In 1853 one was acquired by the American naval officer Matthew Calbraith Perry. From 1868 Chins were lap dogs to upper-class ladies, and today they are companion dogs.

Appearance

Males stand about 25 cm (10 in) at the withers, and females are slightly taller. The FCI sets no weight for the breed.

The Chin’s expression is its most distinctive feature. It has a large, broad, rounded head, big dark eyes set wide apart, a very short, broad muzzle, feathered ears and evenly patterned markings on the face. Many dogs have a dot or line on the forehead, which Japanese tradition holds to be the touch of Buddha.

Unlike most dogs, the Chin has only an outer coat and no undercoat. The adult coat can take up to two years to grow in fully. It may be black and white, red and white (which covers all shades of sable, lemon and orange) or tricolor, meaning black and white with reddish-tan points. Other colors are grounds for disqualification in the show ring.

Temperament

Chins are often said to be cat-like in both looks and habits. They are moderately active and enjoy walks, but are also suited to small homes such as apartments. Owners find them charming and entertaining. They are also described as stubborn and temperamental, and it is recommended not to let them off the leash outdoors.

Some Chins show signs of separation anxiety, which crate training can help with.

Care and health

Common health problems in the breed include luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps), cataracts and early-onset heart murmurs. A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 12.5 years.

Facts on this page were checked against Wikipedia and may have changed since.