Hi! You've found the web page which will help you decide if the Japanese Chin is right for you, and if it is, you will be able to get help in finding a breeder close to where you live.

There are several important things we want to review with you first. They will help you understand the Japanese Chin breed and help to make that decision for you.

Here are the most asked questions:

• What is the correct appearance of the Japanese Chin?
• What are the breed characteristics of the Japanese Chin?
• What type of grooming does the Japanese Chin require?
• What type of training do I need to know for the Japanese Chin?
• Should I consider spay or neuter of any pet that I have?

General Appearance
The Japanese Chin is a dainty and stylish dog that is usually between 8 to 11 inches tall and can be as small as four pounds or as much as fifteen pounds (the ideal being 9 1/2 inches to 10 1/2 inches). The height and weight should be proportional. Their coat is semi-long, straight, and silky. They carry a heavy ruff at the chest and pants in the rear. The tail should be carried up over their back with long profuse feathering on it. Once your pet is spayed or neutered their coat will become even more luxurious! Remember that your Chin will not have an adult coat until it is more than a year old. When it is in its "teen" stage (7-9 months) it's likely to be almost naked! Chin come in a variety of colors; black and white, red and white (the shading runs from lemon to sable to mahogany) and black and white with tan points (Also referred to as tri colored - reddish-tan spots over the eyes and on the sides of the face). The color should be evenly distributed in patches over the body and in a symetrical mask over the eyes and ears. The body is square looking and compact. The head is large with a short muzzle and wide set round eyes.

Breed Characteristics
The Japanese Chin is a breed with roots deep in the Royalty of both the Chinese and Japanese Courts. You will find that your Chin's regal ancestry still is apparent as these little dogs still often display a noble, or sometimes haughty, air. Chin are basically good natured and sensitive creatures that reflect the atmosphere around them. If your home is full of light and noise your Chin will most likely be outgoing. If your life tends to be solitary and quiet, your Chin will be likely to be quiet and reserved. Chin are often cat-like in attitude with an ability to climb that is surely unmatched in few other breeds of dogs! Most Chin find their favorite "spot" in the house on the back of the sofa or chair! Also, like cats, Chin tend to groom themselves by licking their paws and rubbing their faces. This has been known to cause the occasional hairball! Chin often "snizzle" or snort. This is not a sign of a "bad cold" or other impending illness. The snizzling (blowing hard out of their nose, accompanied by a fine mist) is a result of the animal's "flat face." Chin also reverse sneeze (a honking sound). Although they seem almost unable to breathe, they are not in any distress. If this happens to your pet, many breeders apply gentle pressure on their rib cages or simply stroke their neck. A Chin owner should always remember to supply plenty of ventilation and fresh water during warm weather because Chin are very sensitive to heat and humidity.

Grooming
The Japanese Chin is easy to groom. The coat is a single layer, silky and straight and is not prone to matting. Brushing once or twice a week and a bath as needed will keep your Chin sparkling! In addition to shampoo, a creme rinse will provide extra luster and softness. The extra conditioning will also prevent tangles, making your Chin easy to comb. Chin may also be blow dried on a cool setting. While your Chin is shedding (yes, they do shed!) it is a good idea to brush them more frequently. Girl dogs seem to shed more than boys do, but once your Chin is spayed she will also grow the glamorous coat of a male! Remember to keep your Chin's toenails clipped and the hair under the feet should be trimmed.

Training
To make your Chin a well-behaved member of your community, the JCCA highly recommends early socialization of your Chin puppy. Many All-Breed Kennel Clubs, Community Centers, and Veterinarians offer Puppy Kindergarten Classes as well as many levels of obedience training. We encourage all Chin owners to train their pets to be the best Canine Citizens' they can!

Spay/Neuter
To optimize your Chin's health and well being, spaying or neutering of your pet is highly recommended by the JCCA and AKC. Spaying or neutering shows not only a deep concern for your own pet Chin, but also a respect for the breed as a whole.

Locating a Breeder
If you wish to find a breeder in your geographic area, please click on your area of the map below, indicating where you live. You will be able to then send a message to the JCCA Breeder Referral Team coordinator in your area. They will contact you for further assistance. Thanks for choosing the Japanese Chin to be the newest addition to your family.