Japanese Chin

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The Japanese Spaniel is also called the Japanese Chin or Chin. It is a dainty little spaniel with a short, broad face, and a soft, feathered coat. A thick ruff covers the neck and chest.

The forehead is quite round, with a well-defined stop. The nose is wide and the nostrils open. It has an extremely short nasal canal. Black & white Japanese Spaniels must have black noses. In other dogs, the nose color should match the color of the coat markings.

The expressive, protruding eyes are dark and almond- shaped.

The teeth form a level or undershot bite. The upside-down, v-shaped ears are well covered with hair. The body is about the same length as it is high. The front legs are straight and fine-boned.

The coat comes in white with colored patches, most often black, but sometimes red, lemon, orange, sable or brindle. The feathered tail curls up over the back. Smaller dogs are preferred. The Japanese Spaniel has an elegant high-stepping gait.

Temperament: Intelligent, Alert, Loving, Loyal, Cat-like, Independent

Health Problems: The Japanese Chin Club of America estimates Chins have a typical lifespan of 10–12 years, with some living to 15 or more. A UK Kennel Club survey puts their median lifespan at 9.25 years.