Meet The Breed: The Japanese Chin Find out from My Best Friend

This week’s meet the breed is all about the Japanese Chin. ‘Chin’ meaning cat! Read on to find out more about this tiny, charismatic dog! Believed to have originally evolved from the Tibetan Spaniel, the Japanese Chin is a little cutie with a big personality

Responsive and affectionate with those he knows and loves, however a little reserved when placed in new surroundings or with strangers. A Japanese chin is a good little friend to have. He is a sensitive and intelligent soul (albeit somewhat independent) whose only purpose is to serve as a friend. Naturally clean, the feisty chin makes an ideal pet that can thrive in any environment.

Nickname: ‘Child of Royalty’ in Holland or ‘Sun Dog’ in Scandinavia

Life Span: 12-14 years

Characteristics: The Japanese Chins often have a white spot on the middle of their foreheads, which is called Buddha’s thumbprint. This title came about because many Chin dogs were owned by the Emperor Ming of Han China.

Dog Breed Group: Toy

Height: 20-27 cm at the shoulders

Weight: 4-9 lbs

Colour: Black and white, lemon and white, tri-colour, red and white, sable and white

Coat: Long and full, silky to touch

Fun Fact: Japanese chins are often compared to cats, as their grooming habits are similar. Can be found licking its paws and rubbing his head in the same way a cat does.

A list of reputable breeders can be found on the Kennel Club website.

My Best Friend Dog Care Services

At My Best Friend we offer a range of dog care services including Dog Walking, Doggy Day Care, Home Boarding, Pet Sitting and Puppy Care. We work hard to provide a caring, convenient and professional service to your best friend and we take pride in treating your dog as if they were our own.