Japanese Chin Breed Profile

Japanese Chins bond very closely to their families. Often, they will become your shadow, following you from room to room. They are very quick to read you moods and adjust well to them. They were bred to be 'catlike' and are very clean, often batting things with their paws. They also like to be up high...like the back of a sofa and adore sunshine and will sit on or near a window sill and bask in the sun, though curled up on your lap is their favorite place. They are quiet peaceful dogs that require little exercise. They love to travel with you and put up well with all the attention they draw from people unfamiliar with Chin. They are very gentle, and do not enjoy any rough- housing. They can also be very 'clownish' and will keep you amused with their antics. Very intelligent dogs. At one time, only the Royals were permitted to own a Chin. They would often have someone who's job was to care for the Chin. They were pampered and adored. Today, it is much the same. Chin are dogs that need to be loved and pampered. They make an excellent 'apartment' dog, and can easily be wee wee pad trained. Healthy breed. Can have some problems associated with all small breeds such as cataracts and luxating patella's. Their coats are very easy to maintain, and most love to be brushed and groomed.

Information courtesy of Bedoka Japanese Chin 

Congenital and Genetic Conditions found with greater than average frequency in the Japanese Chin (point to name for description):


This is presented solely as a starting point for you to learn and ask questions about the breed. This information is NOT to be used to diagnose, evaluate, or treat any condition whatsoever. For specific information, consult your veterinarian. The above diseases and conditions are found with a higher-than-average frequency in the Japanese Chin. These conditions may or may not be severe, and may or may not be hereditary. Some conditions may actually be "normal" for the breed, such as alopecia in the hairless breeds; some may be intrinsic to the breed due to its physiology, such as skin fold dermatitis in the Pug, Bulldog, and Shar-Pei; some may be related to care and nutrition; and some may be strictly genetic. The best source of additional and more detailed information on these conditions is a veterinarian, breed club, or knowledgeable breeder.

Japanese Chin Links:

Japanese Chin Club of America - http://www.japanesechinonline.org/
National Breed Club

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