Bright, alert, and full of energy, the Japanese Chin is a fun-loving breed. This breed is known to be a loving and faithful family pet, yet it may be shy around strangers and new environments. Apartment life is perfect for them because of their tiny size, but they still like playing in the yard. Brushing their smooth, flowing coat once every two weeks is a must.
Chin temperament in Japan
The Japanese Chin is best described as a magnificent companion with voice only a parent could adore (aka the Japanese Spaniel). These canines are laid-back and adoring, and they often form strong attachments to their human caretakers. They are quite content doing nothing so long as they are in the company of their people, and particularly when they are singing a duet with their people. These puppies don’t bark; they sing. Prepare your karaoke machine in advance for those spontaneous singing sessions. They are natural entertainers, and the “Chin spin” dance is a well-known expression of their enthusiasm. (If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it; you’ll adore it.)
Chihuahuas are kind and loyal, but they can also be feisty and defiant. They have their own ideas and may not take orders as well as a Lab. They are not often violent, however young pups may exhibit play biting. However, these dogs are highly trainable, and with the right guidance, they may become obedient, loving members of the household.
They prefer to climb and perch precariously on high places like the back of a chair or couch, hence chins are frequently compared to cats. (Let’s not forget their solitary nature.) Cats are their best friends, but they should be introduced to be socialized with other dogs gradually.
The Proper Way to Treat a Japanese Chin
In spite of popular belief, Japanese Chin dogs are not very demanding maintenance. They have minimal activity requirements and a low-maintenance grooming regimen. However, because to their obstinate nature, you cannot afford to slack off during training simply because they are adorable.
Grooming
Appearances may be misleading, and Japanese Chins give off the impression that they need a full style squad. Their grooming needs are far less involved than those of other long-haired breeds. Keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy by brushing it once a week with a slicker brush and checking its ears for dirt and debris. Use a product made specifically for dog ears if you need to clean the ears. Trimming their nails weekly may be necessary if you keep up with their rapid growth rate. The sounds of tapping on your tile flooring are your cue that it’s time.
Start with brushing your Chin’s teeth once a week, and gradually increase the frequency until you’re brushing their teeth every day. Getting them habituated to this task from a young age is essential. Like you, they may avoid future dental problems and health issues by cleaning their teeth twice a day. Your veterinarian should clean them professionally once a year.
Getting your puppy used to have their lips and paws touched from a young age is a great way to strengthen your relationship with him or her and prepare him or her to appear their best in photos. This will make trips to the vet or groomer easier for them in the future.
Training
Their size is irrelevant to the fact that they still require instruction. From their perspective, the world is enormous, but the Chin have the confidence that comes from training to know that they are secure. As cute as these small puppies are, they may be rather obstinate and will require continuous training to become well-behaved pets.
Maintain a cheerful and happy attitude while you teach your dog the basics of obedience, such as sit, stay, and come. When they do a good job, shower them with compliments, snacks, and unique playthings. When you feel your frustration levels rising, it’s important to take a break. They are eager to please and provide entertainment since they formerly belonged to a king or queen. Make sure that training sessions are enjoyable for both of you.
Toy breeds like the Japanese Chin benefit greatly from early socialization. Your puppy will adapt better to new environments if you gradually expose it to new people, locations, and other animals. For them to feel secure, kids must understand what is expected of them. Training teaches them to be polite and helpful members of society, and it may also teach them some entertaining tricks for your amusement.
Eat Right!
This is fantastic news! You don’t have to feed Japanese Chins if you don’t want to. Prepare your dog’s food only after consulting with your veterinarian. You care deeply about providing a balanced diet for your puppy. Your Chihuahua would happily eat high-quality commercial dog food if you’d rather not cook for him. Consider their age and life circumstances while settling on a formula (puppy, adult senior). If you’re not sure what’s best for your pet, go to your vet; they’ll be able to advise you based on your animal companion’s unique circumstances.
Since they are so little, it’s simple to overfeed them. Because of their adorable appearance, you may be tempted to pamper them often for no apparent reason. However, even a single additional pound may have a negative impact on their health. You should see a veterinarian if your dog starts acting a little… Rubenesque. In order to get your Chin back to a healthy weight, they may provide a diet and activity regimen that will meet all of their nutritional requirements.
Exercise
Even for the most qualified lapdogs, like the Japanese Chin, exhaustion is the best punishment. They are not designed for long periods of use (unless you’re binge-watching your favorite dancing competition, in which case they’d be perfect!). On the other hand, youngsters look forward to regular walks and exploring the outdoors. Aim for daily sessions of about 20-30 minutes. Keep them secure in a fenced-in backyard if you plan on letting them off leash. In areas without a fence, leash your Japanese Chin at all times. They make excellent friends, but their stubbornness and inquisitiveness mean they don’t always respond to their name.
Because of their small stature, they should never be left outdoors on their own (not even for potty breaks). Birds of prey like hawks and owls could attempt to steal these puppies for meals. To keep them safe, always remain with your dog while you’re out in fields or other wide open places. Keeping your pet on a leash is the safest option, and you should constantly be alert of your surroundings.
Right back where you started, at the dance-off. Have you ever seen a Chin dance? Chins in Japan are famous for their “Chin spin.” Spin, spin, spin: chins stand on their hind legs. They’re probably dancing for food or your attention. Not exactly exercise, but it will get them moving and help them burn off some steam.
Perfect Setting
The Japanese chin is a very adaptable breed. However, they are most at ease in compact living quarters, making them ideal for city flats or even mobile homes (like with those exploring the country in an RV).
Chins are content in a variety of family configurations, including single-person households, those with children, and those with other pets (dogs and cats included). What’s even better? They may be used in a variety of settings, making them suitable for everyone to purchase. Even if this is your first pet, if you’re a seasoned pet parent, you’ll have no trouble getting them used to their new surroundings. They will instruct you in the ways of being a responsible pet parent if you are new to the role of “dog mom” or “dog dad.”
These canines should not be left outdoors in the summer, since the heat and humidity might make them sick. (Their squished faces make it harder for them to breathe in the heat.) So turn up the air conditioning and grab a cold one; this pooch is down to hang out with you.
Cultural Background on the Japanese Chin
Is it impolite to refer to a dog as a contradiction in terms? The first thing you should know is that this dog has been compared to a cat. Now you know that China, not Japan, is where they first appeared. That came about as follows:
In recognition of their devotion to Japan, China presented its dignitaries with this princely infant. Although they trace their ancestry back to canines of Chinese royalty, it was the Japanese who introduced the dog to the Western world and our laps.
Midway through the nineteenth century, then-President Franklin Pierce of the United States and Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom dispatched Commodore Matthew Perry (not another Matthew Perry) to Japan to set up trade offices on their respective nations’ behalf. He came back with three different packs of Imperial dogs as presents (and a pair for himself). A few of the puppies made it, and he presented one to his daughter Caroline and her husband, August Belmont, Jr., who was president of the American Kennel Club at the time.
Not so fast! They never put those two puppies together. Dogs weren’t imported to the US until 1858 when a trade contract was signed between the US and Japan. In part because of their uniqueness, they quickly rose to prominence and were one of the most sought-after breeds of their day.
While the Japanese Chin was officially recognized by the AKC in 1888, its popularity waned during the century. As of right moment, they are rated 104th out of a total of 197 breeds. This, however, just means that you will be one of the few people in the world to be able to say with confidence that a member of your family is descended from nobility when you welcome a Chinese—oops, Japanese Chin puppy into your house.
Have you been thinking about getting a Japanese Chin as a pet? The AKC website is a great resource for locating a reliable breeder. Puppies often cost about $2,000, on average. However, for that price, you may purchase a puppy that has passed a temperament and health test, and perhaps even comes with pedigree papers! If you can’t find a Japanese Chin in your area, you may always try contacting a rescue group that specializes in the breed or visiting your local animal shelter.
Common questions
Do Japanese Chins shed?
Japanese Chins don’t shed a lot. They’re great self-groomers, but they do shed seasonally. Chins need a good brushing once a week followed by a monthly bath to stay in tip-top shape.
Are Japanese Chins good family dogs?
Japanese Chins are great family dogs! Why? They were bred that way. It doesn’t matter if your family is one person or 10; they’re here to take it easy and hang out with you—preferably indoors and on your lap.
Are Japanese Chins aggressive dogs?
Japanese Chins are not aggressive dogs. It’s simply not part of their repertoire. They prefer to give their attention sweetly and pleasingly, but at the end of the day, they’re not perfect. Puppies will play-bite because the world is their chew toy, but as they find their way, the only time you might see a nibble is if they’re put in a position where they feel they have to defend themselves.
What are the most popular Japanese Chin mixes?
The most common Japanese Chin mixes (and their nicknames) are:
- Japanese Chin-Chihuahua mix (Chin-Wa)
- Japanese Chin-Pomeranian mix (Chineranian)
- Japanese Chin-Dachshund mix (Doxie Chin)
- Japanese Chin-Pekingese mix (Japeke)
- Japanese Chin-Yorkie mix (Jarkie)
- Japanese Chin-Maltese mix (Jatese)
- Japanese Chin-Shih Tzu mix (Jatzu)
- Japanese Chin-Poodle mix (Poochin)
Do Japanese Chins bark a lot?
Japanese Chins do not bark a lot. In fact, these “Japanese Spaniels” are known to be great in condos or other multiple-dwelling housing structures because they keep their thoughts to themselves. This could be a lucrative promotional opportunity for rescues looking to find homes for the breed—a dog for every apartment.
Can Japanese Chin be left alone?
Japanese Chins are indoor dogs and bred only to be companions. A dog kept continually outside will be miserable. It will also be most unhappy if left alone for any length of time, so if the family/owner is out all day, then a Chin is not for you. It should be said too that a Chin exercises a certain amount of independence, and being sensitive will react badly to harsh discipline, so if you want a dog to dominate, then again, this is not the breed for you.