Japanese Chin

Family: companion

Place of Origin: Japan

Date of Origin: ancient times

Avg Size of Male: Height: 8-11 inches, Weight: 4-7 pounds

Avg Size of Female: Height: 8-11 inches, Weight: 4-7 pounds

Original Function: lap dog

Primary Current Function: companion

Other Name: Japanese spaniel



The Japanese Spaniel is a dainty, fine-boned breed with a square shape. It has a short muzzle and wide nostrils. Its wide-set, protruding eyes are almond-shaped and dark with a touch of white, giving the impression of surprise. The Chin has a questioning expression with an Oriental appearance.This aristocratic pup has folded v-shaped ears, and its tail curls over its back.Both its ears and tail are feathered. Its gait is elegant, lively, and high-stepping.The Japanese Chin’s thick coat is long, straight, and silky. Its fur forms a thick ruff around the neck and chest. The fine coat sticks out from its body and is usually colored in white with patches of black, red, yellow, orange, sable or brindle. The breed typically has a white spot on its forehead known as Buddha’s Thumbprint, due to the Buddhist Emperor Ming of Han China who owned many Chin’s.