Japanese Chin

Toy Dog Breeds

A loving and sensitive dog, the Japanese Chin is actually of ancient Chinese origin, despite its name. A devoted companion, the Chin loves the comfort of its owner and is willing to please. Also known as the Japanese Spaniel, they have a bright, inquisitive expression that is characteristic of Oriental breeds.
 
Appearance
Bred for the singular function of aristocratic companion, the Japanese Chin has a light, high-stepping gait with feathered tail and a thick ruff that covers the neck and chest. They have short, broad faces and fine-boned limbs. Japanese Chins stand 8 to 11 inches at the shoulders, and weigh roughly 4 to 7 pounds. Their long, thick coat is silky and straight; their coloration can be black and white, or red and white.

Personality
Japanese Chins can be sensitive dogs, and need to be disciplined gently. They can be friendly to children, other pets, and even strangers. They have prove to by playful and gentle friends to children that are likewise gentle. Some have described the breed as catlike - they have even been known to climb.

History
It is likely that the Japanese Chin shares a close history with the Pekingese. Like the Pekingese, the Chin was relegated to the courts of the Chinese elite. Its arrival in Japan is disputed; some theorize that Zen Buddhists brought the breed near 520 A.D., others believe a Korean prince may have taken some to Japan in 720 A.D. Still others believe a Chinese emperor gifted a pair of Chins to a Japanese emperor around a millennium ago. The modern Japanese Chin may have been crossed with English Toy Spaniels to further reduce their size. The Chin maintains a modest popularity in America, but enjoys its greatest popularity in Japan.

Care
Japanese Chin can have their exercise needs met with short walks, romps, or games. They are not well suited to living outside, like most short-nosed breeds, and perform poorly in excessively hot or cold weather. Their long, silky coats need to be combed at least twice a week to prevent tangles. They are a very docile and intelligent breed; they do well in obedience classes.

Health
Japanese Chins’ have relatively few major health concerns, although they can suffer from patellar luxation, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and entropion. Less often, Japanese Chin may be susceptible to epilepsy. It is suggested that their knees and eyes be tested for the above conditions. The average lifespan of the Japanese Chin is 12 to 14 years.

Conditions Summary

• Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS): inadequate tear production that can lead to more serious eye infections.
• Entropion: the lower eyelid rolls inward, causing pain and possible infections and permanent damage.
• Epilepsy: a condition of recurring seizures – the uncoordinated firing of neurons within the brain.

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References
The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Japanese Spaniels: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Japanese Spaniel Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog.

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Japanese Chin." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds.

"American Kennel Club - Japanese Chin." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.

"Choosing a Japanese Chin." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information.

"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or Dry Eye in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Entropion - Inward Folding Eyelids in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Epilepsy: A Cause of Seizures in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

Information provided by Anima International Corporation. No reproduction without the written permission of Anima International Corporation.