Japanese Chin breed guide

Chin are the unrivaled noblemen of Japanese breeds, tiny indoorsy companions. Training may be simple for a trainer who makes them believe they are doing only what they want to do.

Bred strictly as companions for royalty, the Japanese Chin's only job throughout its history has been to charm, amuse and comfort its humans.

Japanese Chin live 10 to 12 years. Responsible breeders screen for luxating patellas, cataracts, epilepsy and early-onset heart murmurs.

The breed may be affected by a fatal neurological condition called GM2 gangliosidosis or Tay-Sachs disease and a DNA test lets breeders identify carriers and plan matings that prevent it.

The long, silky coat looks high-maintenance but is surprisingly easy to keep in top condition with weekly brushing and a bath about once a month, depending on surroundings. The nails grow very fast and need regular trimming.

The Chin is a fairly active little dog that enjoys slow walks or exploring a fenced backyard. AKC calls it an excellent choice for apartment living. Because of a stubborn nature it should never be allowed outdoors off lead.

Historians have long debated the breed's beginnings: some say China and others Korea, with origin tales crediting Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors or European merchants for bringing it to Japan 500 to 1,000 years ago.

All agree that Japanese nobles cultivated the breed as we know it and Chin were unknown in the West until 1854, when Japan reopened for trade after 200 years of isolation.