The Japanese Spaniel

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The Japanese Spaniel (Chin) An Oriental Aristocrat, but an Inquisitive Lap Slave

The Japanese Spaniel (Chin) is a small breed of dogs rooted in China. This little dog was kept by the Chinese aristocracy. Although the details of how it arrived in Japan are not clear, it is said that this aristocratic creature had the role of a gift among the nobles. However, it became very popular and appreciated in Japan.



Delicate and fragile creature, the Japanese Spaniel (Chin), otherwise known the Japanese Chin or nicknamed Chin, is a little dog with an adorable expression. The stature is compact and square. The head is large, with rounded skull. The forehead is prominent, wide and bold. The eyes are big, round and dark brown or black in colour. The stop is abrupt, but nicely followed by a short, flat muzzle.

This dog has small and delicate jaws and long, white whiskers. The ears are small and floppy and set wide apart. The neck stands finely stiff and the back is straight. The chest is softly arched and the legs are long and supple. The tail is long and carried curved over the body. The coat is smooth and soft to the touch. The ears, the neck and the tail have longer coat. The colour of the coat is white with patches of different colours such as black, lemon, red or sable.

There are no noticeable differences between the genders, but there are 2 types of this breed the ones under and the ones over 7 pounds. Generally, the average height is 7 to 11 inches (18-28 cm) and the average weight is 4 to 15 pounds (2-7 kg).

This aristocrat has a single duty: to love and to obey its master. It excels at its job of… being a lap dog and it is willing to lay in its owners arms forever. It is very charming and friendly, so do not expect any signs of protection from it. It is a good friend to all pets and even to strangers. It tolerates small children, but keep an eye on them, because it can be easily harmed. It does not bark too much and it is very mannered and docile.

Even if its level of cuteness if very high, try not to forget that this dog has a mind of its own and needs some rigorous rules. Try to resist its sweetness and to remain firm, without being too harsh. It tolerates well other pets and its personality is close to one of a cat. Even if it is a lap dog, it needs daily walks to consume its energy. It is perfect for a city life and does best in an apartment.

This cutie is easy to groom, but you will need to brush it daily, to check its ears and to clean its eyes. It is an average shedder and it needs occasional washing. It can live up to 10 years.

The Japanese Spaniel (Chin) is an adorable dog who is eager to stand on every loving owners warm lap.

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