INTRODUCTION
The Japanese Chin dog breed hails from Asia, where they have been prized as companions for over a thousand years. They were a popular member of the Chinese and Japanese imperial courts, and it was in Japan that they developed their distinctive appearance.Although these are purebred dogs, you can still find them in shelters and rescues. Remember to adopt. This breed is elegant and delicate, mild-mannered and playful. They adapt well to apartment living and even adapt to novice pet parents with ease; although they are not very fond of being left home alone for long hours. These dogs also have a habit of climbing, and you may be surprised when you find your dog high up in the most unlikely places in the house, guarding his domain. Give your Chin lots of attention and love, and you’ll have an easy-going, adoring cuddle buddy.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Japanese Chin is cat-like in many ways. It is common to see this breed grooming itself by licking its paws and wiping its head. Because of their flat face, the Japanese Chin often snuffles, snorts or sneezes in reverse. Usually, a Japanese Chin is able to breathe through this, but if the attack becomes severe, you can try gently stroking its neck.Japanese Chins do well in flats.Although Japanese Chins are intelligent and eager to please, they require interesting and fun-filled training sessions. Otherwise, they become bored and will turn their attention to something more entertaining.Japanese Chin dogs get along very well with older children, but are not recommended for households with younger children due to their small size. Japanese Chin dogs are companion dogs that thrive when they are with the people they love. They should not live outdoors or in a kennel away from their family.Japanese Chin dogs require a lower amount of exercise compared to other breeds, but enjoy a daily walk or playing in the yard.Japanese Chin dogs do not like to be separated from their people, and separation anxiety is a common problem in the breed.To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they have no genetic diseases that can be passed on to the puppies and that they have a sound temperament.
HISTORY
The Japanese Chin is an ancient breed that probably originated in the Chinese imperial court. Highly prized, it was often given as a gift to emissaries from other lands, and it was probably as a gift to the emperor of Japan who came to that island nation that gave it its name. In Japan, the Chin was not considered a dog (inu), but a separate being (chin). The Japanese Chin was unknown to the outside world until 1853, when Commodore Matthew Perry entered the port of Uraga, near Edo (present-day Tokyo), and introduced Japan to international trade. The Japanese Chin became a popular commodity and many were imported to Britain and the United States. Early American owners of the breed included President Franklin Pierce, then Secretary of War Jefferson Davis and Perry’s daughter Caroline Perry Belmont. They became popular with the people of wealth and nobility. In the United States, the Japanese Chin was known as the Japanese Spaniel and retained that name until 1977.