Characteristics

The Japanese Chin is a small, well balanced, lively, aristocratic toy dog with a distinctive Oriental expression. It is light and stylish in action. The plumed tail is carried over the back, curving to either side. The coat is profuse, silky, soft and straight. The dog's outline presents a square appearance.

Owning

He is naturally clean and makes an ideal pet who can thrive in most any climate. A Japanese Chin is a good companion, bright and alert. He is sensitive, though, with definite likes and dislikes, but rarely, if ever, does he forget friend or foe.

Did You Know

In Japan, there are Inu (dogs) and there are Chin. To the Japanese the distinction needs no clarification. Chin are royalty. They are descendants of dogs that warmed the laps of Chinese aristocracy and kept court with the ladies of the Imperial Palace. From its introduction until August 9, 1977, the breed was known and registered by the AKC as the Japanese Spaniel. Effective with that date, its name officially became the Japanese Chin. There were 945 Japanese Chins registered with the AKC in 1990, 1,213 in 1991, 1,217 in 1992, 1,110 in 1993, 1,122 in 1994, and 1,084 in 1995.