Description

The Japanese Spaniel is also called the Japanese Chin or Chin. It is a dainty little spaniel with a short, broad face, and a soft, feathered coat. A thick ruff covers the neck and chest. The forehead is quite round, with a well-defined stop. The nose is wide and the nostrils open. It has an extremely short nasal canal. Black & white Japanese Spaniels must have black noses. In other dogs, the nose color should match the color of the coat markings. The expressive, protruding eyes are dark and almond- shaped. The teeth form a level or undershot bite. The upside-down, v-shaped ears are well covered with hair. The body is about the same length as it is high. The front legs are straight and fine-boned. The coat comes in white with colored patches, most often black, but sometimes red, lemon, orange, sable or brindle. The feathered tail curls up over the back. Smaller dogs are preferred. The Japanese Spaniel has an elegant high-stepping gait.

Origin

Despite its name, the Japanese Spaniel is probably native to Korea - the breed later being developed in Japan and introduced to Europe in a royal gift. Its greatest moment of popularity came in 1853 when a pair was given as a gift to Queen Victoria from Commodore Perry when he returned from his historic mission to open Japan to world trade. The Japanese Spaniel was renamed "Japanese Chin" by the AKC in 1977. Regardless of the name, the breed has always been, first and foremost, a companion dog.

Temperament

The Japanese Spaniel is a charming, lively, and happy animal. Pleasant, loving and intelligent. Affectionate and extremely devoted to its master. This breed loves everyone it is familiar with, but is known to be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations. With its gentle ways and charming manners, it is perhaps best suited to homes in which there are no small children. If you do have small children, teach them to be nice and gentle with the dog. They are good with other dogs and pets. The Japanese Spaniel has a mind of its own and likes to be the center of attention. This breed is not a barker. Mild mannered, elegant, yet playful. Sensitive, agile, dainty and clean. This breed is more obedient than most toy breeds and are good dogs for learning tricks. They are also good watchdogs. The Japanese Spaniel can be taught to perform tricks.

Height

Height: 7-11 inches (18-28 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 4 pounds (2 kg.) - 15 pounds (7 kg.)

Known Health Problems

Like many short-faced breeds, the Japanese Spaniel tends to wheeze and snore. They are prone to eye and respiratory problems and heat prostration. Some lines are prone to distemper. Your veterinarian may choose to adjust the immunization schedule.

Conditions for Living

The Japanese Spaniel is a good dog for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is somewhat sensitive to temperature extremes.

Exercise Requirments

Chin do not require a great deal of exercise, however they do need to in an open yard.

Life Expectancy

An average of under 10 years.

Grooming

A few minutes each day will keep the coat looking beautiful. Comb out tangles and brush lightly, lifting the hair to leave it standing out a little. A professional dog groomer can show you the correct technique. Clean the eyes every day and check the ears regularly for any signs of infection. Dry shampoo occasionally and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Toy