Origin: Japan
Origin of Name: The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, known for its strabismus of the eyes.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Small | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
This is a good question. Historians have long debated the introduction of the breed. Some said that it was a product of China; Others say that Korea. Various origins introduce Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors, or European merchants to China with Chin anywhere from 500 to 1,000 years ago. But everyone agrees that it was the Japanese nobles who cultivated the breed as we know it today. The Chins were unknown in the West until 1854, when Japan reopened for trade after 200 years of secession.
The Japanese Chin's long, silky coat gives it the look of a high-maintenance breed, but is surprisingly easy to maintain in top condition. She will require weekly brushing and bathing once a month depending on her surroundings. Breed nails grow very fast and must be trimmed regularly to keep them short and clean. Their ears should be examined regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can cause ear infections, and brush the teeth regularly to avoid dental problems.
Training a chin can be simple for a trainer who can convince them that they are only doing the work they want to do. Strictly bred as companions of royalty, Chin's only job in the history of the entire breed is to charm, entertain and comfort his humans. They are often referred to as "feline", and this characteristic can certainly appear during training. They react well to positive training methods, but will cease at the first sign of rigor. Training sessions should be interesting and fun to take care of them. They like to learn tricks to perform for their adorable masses.
The Japanese Chin is a very active small dog. He would enjoy a slow walk with his humans or exploring his backyard. The breed is an excellent choice for apartment living. Due to their stubborn nature, it is never a good idea to allow them to lead outside. If they see something they want to explore, they are likely to refuse to listen to any orders or pleas. They are a bit reserved around new people, pets and conditions, but will enjoy heading to Rome in a dog park supervised with other small dogs with proper socialization.
Japanese Chin should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
The Japanese Chin is a generally healthy breed, and the breeder screens responsible for health concerns such as Luxing patellas (slapping necaps), cataracts, epilepsy, and early-onset heart murmur. Japanese Chin can be affected by a fatal neurological condition called GM2 gangliosidosis, or TA-Sachs disease; Using DNA testing, breeders can identify carriers and plan breeding to prevent the disease from appearing in their puppies.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: