Small dogs can often make the best pets for individuals as they usually don't have space for larger dogs and want affection from their pets. You will find the Japanese Chin dog breed in the category of toy. This means they are affectionate and playful animals to have around. They are also a small dog breed. You will find they don't grow to be larger than eleven inches and seven pounds. They are more the typical size of a cat so apartments and condos can be fine for them. Usually they are black and white, red and white, or black and tan. You will find their coat to be long, very thick, and straight. Unlike most dogs with long hair, they don't tend to have problems around the eyes with overly long hair, but they do have a denser coat around the chest and neck. You will also find them to be an average shedding dog.

For care of the Japanese Chin you will find daily brushing is needed to keep tangles and dead hair from happening. You should only dry shampoo the dog, but check the ears and eyes daily. Grooming should be completed by a professional on a regular basis and you should also seek help when learning how to brush them. These dogs tend to need a special technique when being brushed. You will also find they are sensitive to respiratory problems and eye infections. They don't do well in extreme heat.

The origin of the Japanese Chin dog is obviously that of Japan. They were very popular in the Japanese court and were only allowed to be owned by the royal family. You will find they were extremely popular in the nineteenth century and became the national symbol of Japan in 1964. If you are a little confused by the name you should know in history they were actually known as the Japanese Spaniel. This dog is intelligent, happy, and affectionate. You will find them very playful, but you can also find them very sensitive. They tend to feel the moods around them so if you are angry, sad, or upset they will often feel these emotions as well. Despite their gentle manor they are best placed in homes with older children. They don't tend to like the abuse a smaller child may inflict. You will also find they don't tend to bark, unless during their guard duties. The Japanese Chin also has a great memory, therefore they are attuned to the humans around them and when they don't like someone will let it be known. They tend to choose their owners with respect to attention and care.

Exercise is required, but it does not have to be very long on a daily basis. Short walks or play time can be suitable. It is beneficial to have a yard they can play in, but it is not necessary as long as you take them to a park or on walks. Training is also important. Their temperament makes most training easy as they are eager to please their masters. You will also find that harshness is not warranted, instead use gentleness, but a firm hand. They respond well to fairness and affection over impatience. You should train them as puppies or find a Japanese Chin that has already been trained.