Japanese Chin

• ExerciseLow

  Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Brachycephalic syndrome · Patellar luxation · Heart disease

The Japanese Chin is an elegant, cat-like toy dog that once entertained Japanese nobility and still carries an aristocratic, feline air — it washes its face with its paws, loves high perches and performs the famous spinning 'Chin spin' when happy. Dignified, quiet, sensitive and deeply affectionate, it bonds closely with its family and is a wonderful, gentle companion for a calm home; it is sensitive to harsh tones and chaos, so it needs gentle, patient, positive handling. Its exercise needs are very modest, making it an ideal apartment and lap dog, but it dislikes being left alone for long. The long, silky, single coat is surprisingly easy, needing only a couple of brushings a week and no trimming. As a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed the Japanese Chin has real care considerations: it is heat-intolerant and can breathe hard, so keep it cool and never over-exert it, and its prominent eyes are prone to injury. Also watch for patellar luxation, heart disease (a heart murmur is common with age), and cataracts, and as a small dog it needs diligent dental care. Keep it cool, protect its eyes, keep up dental care and company, and this graceful little aristocrat will be a devoted companion for ten to twelve years.

• How much exercise does a Japanese Chin need?

  Low. Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• How much grooming does a Japanese Chin need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Japanese Chin suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Japanese Chin a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Japanese Chin live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Japanese Chin?

  Keep an eye out for Brachycephalic syndrome, Patellar luxation, Heart disease. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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