Japanese Chin

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Japanese Chin

Japanese Chin Characteristics

Size:
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Exercise Needs:
Good With Dogs:
Watchdog Ability:

Japanese Chin Breed Information

Breed Group: Toy

Weight: 4-7 lbs

Height: 8-11 inches

Color(s): black and white, red and white, or black and tan and white

Overview

A favorite of the Japanese court, this breed could only be owned by members of the Japanese Imperial family, and were often offered as a royal gift. In 1853 the Japanese Chin became exceedingly popular when a pair of this elegant breed was given to Queen Victoria. In 1964 they were honored as one of Japan's national symbols. Originally named the Japanese Spaniel, the AKC changed the name in 1977. Today the Japanese Chin has a small following in the United States, but remains highly adored in Japan.

Character

Japanese Chins are a fine-boned, dainty breed with a square shape. They have an inquisitive expression with an Oriental appearance. This breed is a true aristocrat; lively and high stepping. They were originally bred to be a pampered companion and maintain that role today.

Temperament

This breed is very intelligent, loving, and pleasant. They are also affectionate, mild mannered, and playful. The Japanese Chin is very adept at mirroring the moods of those around them. They are deeply devoted to their master and love everyone. With their gentle and sensitive demeanor, this breed is best suited for homes with older children. They are good with other dogs and pets. Although they are not an excessive barker, they make good watchdogs. They thrive on being the center of attention. This is a breed that is full of courage with a mind of their own. Graced with an excellent memory, they have definite likes and dislikes and never forget a friend or foe. The Japanese Chin, as a family pet is unrivaled.

Care

The Japanese Chin requires daily gentle combing and brushing to keep the coat free from tangles. They must be combed and brushed in a specific manner, so a lesson from a professional dog groomer is recommended. Bathe only when necessary, and dry shampoo occasionally. The eyes and ears need to be cleaned and checked on a daily basis. As is the case in many short-muzzle breeds, the Japanese Chin is prone to respiratory problems. They also have a tendency toward eye infections and heat prostration.

Coat

The Japanese Chin's coat is thick, straight, long, and silky. The fur is more profuse around the neck and chest. The ears and tail are feathered. Their fine coat stands off the body and is white in color with patches of black, yellow, sable, orange, brindle, and red. This breed is an average shedder.

Training

The Japanese Chin is much more obedient that most of the other toy breeds. They are eager to please, so training is done quite easily. This breed excels at learning and performing tricks. Since they are sensitive and mild mannered harsh training methods must never be used. They respond best to gentle, loving, fair, and consistent methods. Basic obedience is recommended.

Activity

This breed requires a minimal amount of exercise. They enjoy a short walk or play session daily. They are perfectly suited for apartment or condominium dwelling, but will also benefit from having the opportunity to play in a small securely fenced yard. It is very important to remember that the Japanese Chin is highly sensitive to temperature extremes.

Ask a Question Japanese Chin Questions & Answers

QUESTION: I am considering adopting a 6 month old Chin who needs a new home. I am wondering if the Chin likes to take long walks. I walk my little Cairn Terrier every day for at least an hour sometimes 90 min. we live in San Francisco so heat isn't a problem.

Anonymous - 1/30/2012 11:21:25 PM

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QUESTION: My mom's Japanese Chin has a very weird, almost dry spot or what I would say looks like leather spot on the part of the tongue that hangs out of her mouth. Does anyone know what might be causing this and what we might do about this? Thank you!!! ~ Tracy

Anonymous - 1/5/2012 7:04:39 PM

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QUESTION: My chin is a male 7 months just moved from his home with others and now with me by himself...he dosent like to walk and breathes loud he also hides under my coffee tale because its dark under there idk what to do will he ever get used to the new house and new family?

Anonymous - 12/26/2011 8:26:45 AM

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QUESTION: I have a 6 mo female chin I purchased 2 weeks ago... Love her! Although she is adorable, her toungue sticks out all of the time. Is this normal? Can she be shown(she has a champion blood line), or is this something than can be corrected?

Anonymous - 12/16/2011 10:14:44 PM

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QUESTION: How big do Japanese Chin's get?

Anonymous - 12/2/2011 10:59:05 PM

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There is a lot of size variation in the Japanese Chin breed I would say 8 - 12 lbs is typical but boys can get just a touch bigger. Wonderful size for indoor house dogs.

fancywood14191 - 12/8/2011 11:30:55 AM

QUESTION: My chin is shedding excessively, what is the best way to remove hair from furniture?

Anonymous - 11/7/2011 8:53:35 AM

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QUESTION: They say the Japanese Chin dog is hyperallergic or very easy for people that are sensitive to dog hairs?

Anonymous - 9/14/2011 8:26:43 PM

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There is no dog that is completely hypoallergenic for all people. The dog hair is not the problem with allergies, it is the dog dander (skin) and saliva. I am slightly allergic and I wash my chin twice a month and he sleeps on my head and I have NO problems.

kokuma1 - 9/27/2011 7:54:56 AM

QUESTION: My Japanese Chin rubs her face on her bed and has lost some hair around her eyes and her neck. She has been to the vet and they have given her meds for her ears and twice for her eyes but she still has the same problem. they also said she could be allergic but don't know from what. Anyone have the same problems.

Anonymous - 8/31/2011 7:33:21 PM

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The Japanese Chin breed is sensitive to corn. If you have it in your dog food or treats, that might be the problem.

Anonymous - 12/15/2011 8:19:11 PM

Let me start off by telling you that Japanese Chin are very catlike. They clean thier faces on a regular basis by rubbing it. If she is tearing alot it may be due to dust, pollens but generally speaking it is just cleaning like a cat. The loss of hair around the neck can be from shedding naturally, a collar around the neck is rubbing it too much. Try and figure out when the started and it may answer your own question. Also, if you have other pets and they rough house it can be from that. Most likely the loss of hair around the neck is shedding, or a collar.

crestchin - 9/18/2011 2:16:01 AM

My japanese chin does, that we took him to the vet and they gave him special food and treats for just him, i think all japanese chins may have this problem.

Anonymous - 9/4/2011 4:53:46 PM

QUESTION: Hello everyone, I am looking at doing all the research on Japanese Chin's and so far is looking really good for my life style. I have one question, I was checking on the weight of the average Chin, and one website told me a male is over 7lbs and a female is under 7lbs. Is this true? I want a male because I was told most the time males would become more attacted to me seeing how I am a woman and most the times females will become attacted to a man. How big will a male Chin become? Thank you!

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 10:25:40 PM

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The average Chin weighs between 7 pounds upwards. YOu can have a tall Chin that weighs 7 pound and a small one that weighs that much. Once a Chin is spayed or neutered the weight goes up. We don't go by pounds anymore at the shows but by color and height etc..

crestchin - 9/18/2011 2:18:20 AM

I dont think so my japanese chin is in really good shape and he is 15 pounds and he is a male.

Anonymous - 9/4/2011 4:54:43 PM

I have both a male, Diego, and female, Diohji, Japanese Chin. Diego is approximately 13 pounds, and Diohji is about 10. As far as the male dog being attracted to females and vice versa, it is true in our case. Diego is my dog and absolutely will not leave my side if I am home. Diohji is more my Fiance's dog. She listens to him over me, and would rather curl up on the couch with him over me... unless he's not home, then she figures I'm second best and still likes to snuggle! Hope that helps!

Anonymous - 8/26/2011 1:32:37 AM

QUESTION: i want to get a japanese chin i am 10 and i want to show my mom i am responsable and now what these dogs need and how to take care of them any tips will be appreciated

Anonymous - 8/20/2011 11:45:27 PM

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A puppy needs alot of care you have 2 feed them make sure they have fresh water everyday A dog this size I would recommend being an inside dog only you will need 2 house trian the puppy. Puppies can only hold their bladder for 3 or less hours. If the puppy couldn't hold themselves and goes in the house, then its your place 2 clean it do not allow your mom 2 do it even if she says "I got it" this will show you are taken care of this dog on your own If your mom thinks you are not ready then here's a few tips: keep your room clean without your mom telling you 2 You could also help your mom out around the house with things without being told I am a mother myself if I see that my kids cant take care of there homework trying 2 keep their grades up clothes off the floor and where they belong I would not allow them 2 get a dog. The most important thing is do things without being told 2 do it mothers hate having 2 repeat ourselves. She may say no but keep doing it and dont argue GOOD LUCK

Anonymous - 8/26/2011 12:59:07 AM

QUESTION: What type of dog food is best for my Japanese chin?

Anonymous - 8/1/2011 6:29:10 AM

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I have read where Chins cannot tolerate corn products. I give my year old Chin "IAMS SENSITIVE NATURALS", its a dry food with no corn.

Anonymous - 1/21/2012 9:12:06 PM

QUESTION: I too have a 2yr old japanese chin Male- which i would love for him to have a family at least two pups so his line could continue. but every female i meet is already neutered!!?

Anonymous - 7/25/2011 9:24:58 AM

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i have a female i would like to mate! where are u located? im in oregon

Anonymous - 11/27/2011 1:56:50 PM

QUESTION: I have a 2yr. old Japanese Chin. My family has been wanting to breed her, we don't know if she can only be bred by another chin or not since its our first time breeding her.

Anonymous - 6/28/2011 10:26:28 PM

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I just recently bought a Japanese chin x yorkie cross - A "Jarkie" so they can breed with whoever. Our girl is soooooo sweet

Anonymous - 8/25/2011 11:43:27 PM

Wow same here - i want her to have pups. What color is your Japanese Chin? Mine is white and brown about 5 pounds shes adorable.

Anonymous - 8/5/2011 9:19:26 PM

we have a male japanese chin and we are looking to breed him also..he is 1 and half yrs old

Anonymous - 7/15/2011 5:10:29 PM

QUESTION: My son surprised me with an eight month old Japanese Chin She is adorable! She has me worried because her nose has had crust around it After I cleaned her nose with a moist cotton ball , she startered wheezing. I wonder if it could be some kind of cleaning product that I use?? Do you have any suggestions?

Anonymous - 6/18/2011 4:08:56 PM

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My vet told me that most Chins are born with the holes in their nose almost sealed and need it cliped on each side to open it up. Check with your vet.

Anonymous - 8/16/2011 11:34:07 PM

I think your Japanese Chin has a cold .

Anonymous - 8/15/2011 10:03:29 AM

QUESTION: We just got a 12 wk old male chin. Very happy with him. Had to change his puppy chow after one week. Goes to the bathroom in his cage ever after walking him late at night. Soft stool. How many times hould he be going?

Anonymous - 6/14/2011 9:04:25 AM

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Chins have a very sensitive stomach, you may check with your vet on a good food for yours. Mine requires a perscription food I get from my vet and he only has 1 bowel movement per day.

Anonymous - 8/16/2011 11:38:44 PM

about 2 or 3 times a day

Anonymous - 7/23/2011 12:56:10 AM

QUESTION: i have a Japanese chin and she is about 4 years old. i just adopted her from my uncle about 2 weeks ago. she does not eat much and her nose has been dry since i got her. is this a sign that she is sick? if so, what could it be?

Anonymous - 5/6/2011 10:38:24 PM

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Not always, Japanese Chin's noses get wet when they lick them but if you are really worried go to your vet

Anonymous - 8/8/2011 1:14:01 PM

QUESTION: I have a female Japanese chin that is 6 1/2 yrs old, never bred. We have a friend that has a male about 5 yrs old. Is my female too old to breed? What is the usual breeding age? We each are big Chin lovers and the pups would be only for our pets.

Anonymous - 3/15/2011 9:51:32 AM

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I disagree that breeding a 6 1/2 yr female Chin for the first time is wise. They should have had their first litter no later than 4 years of age. Some don't have problems but always check with the vet first to make sure her pelvic bone structure is wide enough to have her pups. I have been breeding/showing/raising Japanese Chin since 1979. I would never breed a girl that old for the first time.

crestchin - 9/18/2011 2:25:06 AM

No, she is still in a good age to breed. Many breeders breed chins up to 10 years of age, as long as they are strong enough to keep breeding that long. You should be fine with the ages. Good luck with your pups!

ewokian - 3/23/2011 6:17:37 PM

QUESTION: we just added another chin to our family. now we have two. my first is now 7 years old and I don't recall him playing as rough as my new 14 wk. old. He chews everything he sees. Are chins normally like this?

Anonymous - 2/4/2011 9:38:10 PM

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Your chin puppy could be teething or maybe was never given anything to chew by the breeder. If you haven't already, please buy your puppy some rawhide type chews. My chins chew on these sticks daily...adults included. Puppies chew more often but the adults chew for longer. All dogs have the need to chew...we as responsible owners need to give them the correct things to chew so they don't get into trouble.

woitaranch - 3/27/2011 9:55:55 PM

No, It's not typical, But all dogs are individuals. They also tend to chew a little more when teeth come in.

kokuma1 - 3/7/2011 6:54:31 PM

You can bet it'll last until your chow is at least a year old!

ewokian - 2/9/2011 6:11:51 PM

QUESTION: Hi, my uncle has a Japanese Chin who is 4. I have been babysitting her and she has had this awful cough. I brought her to the vets they said she had bronchitis, gave her meds, well that didn't work and I went out of town so another Uncle took care of her, got a second dose of her meds. This has not worked, she coughs constantly. I feel helpless in getting her help. What do you think I can do for her. Very low on money.....but want to help her.

Anonymous - 1/10/2011 1:37:33 AM

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Your Japanese Chin could also have CHF. Congestive Heart Failure but most don't get this until they are at least ten years old.

crestchin - 9/18/2011 2:26:49 AM

I would guess your Chin has Kennel Cough. They can get over it on their own but it's anoying to listen to. Be sure to vaccinate her for kennel cough after she's well. Also vaccinate for all the other things she might pick up somewhere.

woitaranch - 3/3/2011 9:11:40 PM

I have a Japanese Chin with a flattened trachea. This is very common in Yorkies. He coughs a lot and sounds like he can't get his breath. He is on lasix. You might want to check this out.

Anonymous - 2/4/2011 3:25:47 PM

You can give your Japanese Chin a shot for "Kennel Cough", most farm supply stores have these for $6.00, aka 7 way

Anonymous - 1/11/2011 3:30:33 PM

QUESTION: We just got a 8 week old Japanese chin and she is very cute, but she seems to have a huge attitude. She growls if you pick her up and she does not want to be held or if she is playing. We also have a shitzu that is a year old and she growls at her and steals her toys away! Is that normal for them to act like that or is it just a puppy thing?

Anonymous - 12/30/2010 8:29:50 PM

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Your Japanese chin may not have been as 'socialized' as you were told when you bought her. She may also need some time to get used to her surroundings and you. Japanese chins are normally VERY friendly dogs, especially at that age, if they are socialized properly before they go to a new home. Just give her some time. Stealing toys is a puppy thing. They like to do that, so it's pretty normal. But the growling should just sound like a friendly-play growl, not one where she's being 'protective' about it.

ewokian - 1/2/2011 7:33:07 PM

QUESTION: I adopted a 8 yr. old male Japanese Chin on from the SPCA on thurs. He is not house broken & has only urinated one time on fri.morn 5pm & bowel move. at 10 am on fri. I'm worried about him but can't get to my vet till mon. He doesn't eat much but does drink a little. His eyes also water & mat a lot. Any recomendations I can do till I get him to the vet?

Anonymous - 12/25/2010 5:55:19 AM

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Chins are very loving, you may try to hand feed him alittle. When mine is sick that is the only way he will eat. I just sit him in my lap and put a small bite in my hand and let him lick it off. Try a food called CESAR, my chin lovees it.

Anonymous - 8/16/2011 11:43:47 PM

QUESTION: Hello yet again, Does Jesse or any other of your Japanese Chins have any problem with their knee joints. If so what would be the best and most cost effective way to cover the cost of the surgery if it turns out to be needed? Rory

rorystar1 - 12/12/2010 11:42:53 PM

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I am a Japanese Chin breeder and I do not have any problems with knees in my puppies or adults. My own theory and my Veterinarian's opinion is that puppies who are raised on grates or wires develop this problem due to the unstable surface they have to walk on. My puppies are raised on the floor and we don't have the typical problems many big breeders see in legs. This is just our theory on the problem. If your puppy needs the tendons or ligaments tightened, I'd shop around for prices with reputable vets....prices vary greatly. I wish you well with your Japanese Chin...

woitaranch - 12/25/2010 1:58:56 PM

QUESTION: Is a Japanese chin easy to potty train?? Is a female more gentle and is the top weight for a chin 7 pounds... on another site it showed 14 pounds.. that's quite different.

Anonymous - 12/11/2010 4:57:00 PM

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Usually Japanese Chins are easy to train. I breed them and all my puppies are using there papers are 5 weeks old and usually transition easily if taken outside often to potty out there. There are two weight classes up to 7 pounds and 7-14 pounds.

countrymoment - 12/30/2010 11:49:38 AM

Our first Japanese chin was completely housebroken after 3 accidents. We recently adopted one from a rescue shelter and he is about 1 yr old. He has been more difficult to housebreak, but he is finally getting the idea. As for the weight, there are 2 kinds of chins, one is 7 lbs and under and the other, which both of ours are, are 10-14 lbs.

dottieblu - 12/30/2010 9:55:18 AM

QUESTION: I just purchased a five month only Japanese Chin/cross. He seems to be getting fond of us. But will not come when called all of the time. he keeps backing up outside. in the house he'll run over to his rug/pillow and sit. Like he is afraid of us. We have always been gentle with him. How do you get the timidness out of him so he will always come enthusiaticly to us when called.? He gets all excited to see us when we let him out of his pen. How can we get the excitedness to last all of the time? WE've had him about 3 weeks...it is a matter of time?

Anonymous - 12/8/2010 1:02:02 PM

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Your Japanese Chin/cros dog may not understand his name yet. The older a puppy is when it goes to a new home, the longer it will take to adjust and show affection to the new owners. We have pups around here (5 mon old) that have a harder time adjusting to strangers than, say, an 8 week old. The pup may also not have been as socialized as you might have thought. It will definitely just take some time for him to get used to you and his name. Try giving a treat when he comes when he's called or praising him often for the same thing. Dogs take a while to get used to their names.

ewokian - 12/10/2010 3:05:47 PM

QUESTION: Does any one have problem with Kidney Stones in their Japanese Chin dogs? I am told this is common in this breed, I have a puppy that has had to have them removed twice now.

Anonymous - 10/28/2010 10:19:55 AM

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We had to put down our baby,Gizmo yesterday. She was the best. She was born with a heart murmur. # yrs ago diagnosed with enlarged heart. Last yr. kidney stones. Could not do surgery because of the heart. Loved her sooo much,but loits of health problems. My husband wants to get another Japanese Chin, but Im afraid to.

Anonymous - 4/29/2011 11:27:05 AM

YES our Japanese chin recently passed away at 5 years old and lived with chronic kidney stone problems even on a vet prescribed diet. This is very common in this breed I have two other chins from different breeders one has had bladder stone issues as well. Very difficult to lose them they are the best dogs

Anonymous - 12/20/2010 10:32:18 PM

No, we have had many Japanese Chins and have never ever had any problems with kidney stones. The first thing that I'd check is his diet. Some of the most expensive foods sometimes aren't necessarily better for your dog. I think I'd find out what can cause stones and then talk to a nutritionist about it. His diet may be partially responsible if he's getting too much of something.

woitaranch - 11/14/2010 8:20:46 PM

QUESTION: My Japanese Chin puppy is loosing her hair! Is this normal?

Anonymous - 10/26/2010 8:46:27 PM

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According to my vet, Chins will loose their hair if they get stressed. The smallest change in the daily routine can stress them. When the routine goes bact to normal the hair should come back

Anonymous - 8/16/2011 11:46:24 PM

Yes! Japanese Chins do shed (molt) at least once a year. It will grow back in a couple months, I assure you! In the meantime, make sure you have a good brush!

ewokian - 10/27/2010 5:07:15 PM

QUESTION: Can Japanese chin dogs be gray and white in color?

Anonymous - 9/23/2010 1:23:12 PM

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The gray and white you are referring to is called ticking and disqualifies for showing, but certainly does not affect the personality of a pet Japanese Chin.

Anonymous - 2/4/2011 3:31:37 PM

The color of a Japanese Chin is either black and white (including those with tan points or "tri-color") or red and white, which includes all shades of lemon and white and sable and white. A Chin may "grey out" on their face at a young age - sometimes before three years of age, but they should retain their black body markings in a true black color. "Blue" or dilute black and white are not allowed and are discourged in the breed. You can look at your dog's nose color to determine if the dog is "blue" or a greying black. In all black and white dogs (even with tan points) the nose must be black in color. If it is grey in color, you have a blue dog. Red and whites can have a "self-colored" nose which can range in color from deep brown to a mottled pink. I hope this helps answer your question.

illusion - 9/24/2010 3:05:38 PM

If you are looking for Japanese Chin puppies for sale from reputable Japanese Chin breeders or to adopt a Japanese Chin from a Japanese Chin rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Japanese Chin puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Japanese Chin puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.