Little Pawz -- Japanese Chin -- Japanese Spaniel -- Small Dogs -- Small Dog Breed Information -- Toy Dogs -- Miniature Dogs -- Dog Breeds

The Japanese Chin, sometimes called the Japanese Spaniel, might, at first glance, be mistaken for the Pekingese, and it is possible that the two breeds may have evolved from common stock. It is a high-stepping, graceful little dog that is taller in the leg and has a much lighter body than the Pekingese.

The Japanese Chin, it must be remembered is a 'spaniel' and there are some similarities with the King Charles Spaniel, whose origin can also be traced to Japan. The Japanese Chin has much more of the perky confidence of the tinier breeds than the slower-moving spaniel, and is a lively but dignified little oriental that likes nothing better than to be the centre of attention and is miserable it its playful advances are thwarted.

Size
Weight: 4 – 7 lbs. (1.8 – 3.3 kg)

Coat and Colour
Coat profuse, long, straight, rather silky. It should be absolutely free from wave or curl, and not lie too flat, but have a tendency to stand out, especially at the neck, so as to give a thick mane or ruff, which with profuse feathering on thighs and tail gives a very showy appearance. The dogs should be either black and white or red and white, i.e., particoloured. The term red includes all shades of sable, brindle, lemon and orange, but the brighter and clearer the red the better. The white should be clear white, and the colour, whether black or red, should be evenly distributed patches over the body, cheek, and ears.

Exercise
The Japanese Chin is a happy, little dog that will delight in going for walks and playing games with all the family. It will walk as far as its owners wish, or be happy with a run in the park. This small dog is quite tough, despite its delicate structure, and will enjoy careful handling by well-behaved children. But it does like to climb, so be very careful it does not fall from any significant heights.

Grooming
Daily brushing with a bristle brush will maintain the Japanese Chin's luxurious silky coat. Bathe this breed regularly, about once a month.

Feeding
Recommended would be 1/2 can (13.3 oz 376 g size) name-brand dog food with a biscuit or two, or 1 cup of a dry dog food. This breed will take pleasure in doggy chews or a non-splintery bone. Always provide an ample supply of fresh water for your Japanese Chin.

Origin and History
The Japanese Chin was, for over 1,000 years, a favourite of the Japanese emperors, one of whom decreed that all Japanese Chin should be worshipped. Some tinier specimens were kept in cages in the manner of pet birds.

The breed is reputed to have found its way to Europe with returning seamen in medieval times. However, the Japanese Chin did not make its appearance in the British show ring until 1862, and was recorded as being shown in the United States some 20 years later.

Two Japanese Chin were presented to Queen Victoria by Commodore Perry on his return from thr far east in 1853, and this did much to promote the breed. Although they never gained the popularity of the Pekingese, they had a fairly staunch following up until WWI, when their numbers diminished. Registrations have been on the increase in recent years, and it has become a dependable show dog and popular family pet.