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Japanese Chin
Complete Breed Guide

"Teach me a trick! Teach me a trick!"

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Reviewed by
Puppies.com Editorial Team
Breed experts since 2003
Last updated: May 2026
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Japanese Chin breed photo

Quick Facts About Japanese Chins

toy
Breed Group:
Toy
Weight
Adult Weight:
7–11 lbs
Height
Adult Height:
8–11"
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic:
No
Japanese Chin Average Price
$1,298

Based on current listing prices on Puppies.com. Results may vary.

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Overview

The Japanese Chin is also called the Chin or Japanese Spaniel. It is a little spaniel whose only bred purpose is to serve man as a companion. The Chin has a large, broad head, large wide-set eyes, and a short, broad muzzle.

The Japanese Chin is also called the Chin or Japanese Spaniel, and their only mission in life to be your furry best friend. They have large, broad heads, large wide-set eyes, and short, broad muzzles. This breed is a delightful charming, lively, and happy one — good with children, as well as other dogs and pets. They are pleasant, loving, intelligent, affectionate, and extremely devoted to their favorite humans, but are known to be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations. They have a mind of their own and demand to be the center of attention, so socialize your Japanese Chin well to avoid potential behavior issues.

Puppies.com
Reviewed by
Puppies.com Editorial Team
Breed experts since 2003

Temperament and Behavior

The Japanese Chin is a charming, lively, and happy animal. They are intelligent and extremely devoted to their masters. While Japanese Chin pups can have a mind of their own and love being the center of attention, their mild mannerisms and sweetness make up for it by a mile. This breed is not a constant barker, and as long as you set rules and boundaries for your pup, you’ll both be on cloud nine.

Coat & Grooming

Japanese Chins have long, flowing locks and a very soft wavy coat. Most often you’ll see Japanese Chins in black and white, red and white combinations are less common but very possible. Monthly baths are a good idea, and brushing at least a couple times a week will fend off tangles and knots.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

This breed loves everyone that they're familiar with, but are known to be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations, so be sure to socialize this dog well. If you do have small children, teach them to be nice and gentle with the dog. Japanese Chins are good with other dogs and pets and are well-suited for apartment life. Keep in mind, this breed is somewhat sensitive to temperature extremes, so keeping them as indoor pets is wise.

Exercise & Activity

Japanese Chins do not require a great deal of exercise and fit well into both busy families and elderly couples lifestyles, however they do need to be taken on a daily walk. They will enjoy the opportunity to play in an open yard.

Characteristics at-a-glance

Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.

Affection
Playfulness
Trainability
Intelligence
Exercise Needs
Grooming
Good w/ Kids
Good w/ Dogs
Good w/ Cats
Watchdog
Barking Level
Space Needs
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Japanese Chin FAQs

Common questions about the Japanese Chin breed, answered by our editorial team.

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