Japanese Chin

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated August 17, 2009)

It is almost 150 years since the first Japanese Spaniels, or Japanese Chins, were brought to the United States. Since that time, the breed has prospered here, in England, and in many other countries. Its enduring popularity among the lovers of Toy dogs has been built on the breed's charm, alertness, and easy keeping qualities. Even during World War II when the bitterness it engendered against Japan, the dog's popularity was not injured.

Most dog authorities agree that Pekingese, Pug, and Japanese Chin are ancient oriental types which probably were closely related at one time. It is supposed, for instance, that the pure-bred dog is not native to Japan, and that he therefore came from China or Korea.

There are two theories as to how he arrived. The first is that royal embassies from China and Korea brought dogs as presents to the emperor of Japan. In support of this, Collier, in his Dogs of China and Japan, quotes an old text, which is briefed as follows:

A Korean prince sent a mission to Japan about the year 732. He included an "Ssuchan Pai" dog, as well as a hunting dog. The former was a lap dog with such a charming disposition that all the court ladies of Japan wanted one. Accordingly, the price of small dogs went up.

The second theory as to the arrival of the toy dog in Japan is that he was brought in by Buddhist teachers. If this was so, it places the date as sometime after 520 A.D., the year generally given for the arrival of Zen Buddhism to China.

Many writers have noted that the Chinese regarded the Pekingese dog with great awe, as being a protector of the Buddhist faith, that is, one of Buddha's lions. When Buddha stretched forth his hand, his fingers were supposed to change into lions, whose roars subjected the enemy.

The Japanese Chin became popular in Canada about 1900, and remained popular until World War I. The war period brought an end to breeding for a time, about sixty years ago interest in the breed was revived, and many of the larger shows have excellent classes of entries.

The Japanese Chin is highly intelligent. He is responsive, affectionate and ideal for companionship. The general appearance is that of a dog with a dainty appearance, smart, compact carriage and profuse coat. The size may vary considerably, but the smaller they are the better. The average weight is around 7 pounds.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Get a Puppy Settled with a White Noise Machine

When a new puppy comes into your home, it can sometimes shake the household. Puppies take a lot of your time, and that ...

Discover More

Storing and Cooking Eggs

Learn how to store your eggs and test them for freshness. Then make fluffy omelets and fun fried eggs!

Discover More

Cleaning Up After Potted Plants

Potted plants can help soften even the starkest room. Unfortunately, if the proper care and precaution isn't taken, then ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Toy Poodle

Although beautiful, the Toy Poodle is also extremely intelligent. He is active yet obedient.

Discover More

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the Greyhound breed. He is an affectionate and sensitive, yet very playful, ...

Discover More

Toy Manchester Terrier

Due to his highly sensitive nature, the Toy Manchester Terrier has lost some popularity. He is observant and very devoted.

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 4 + 9?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)