Japanese chin: description, character and cultivation

This dear four-legged pet is one of the first companion dogs. For centuries, Japanese chins proudly wandered around the palace chambers, giving their fellowship and love to the great emperors.

Japanese chin is one of many miniature breeds with a flat muzzle that originated in the Japanese-loving imperial court 1,500 years ago. Fans call him playful, mischievous, smart, decisive, stubborn and affectionate. He is popular among all who love small dogs with a sense of humor, an evil temperament and endless quick wits in pursuit of their interests.

Many hypotheses try to explain the origin of this Japanese breed. According to one of them, the ancestors of this little dog come from Korea, and in 732 they were presented as a gift to the emperor of Japan. Another version claims that dogs arrived in the Land of the Rising Sun much earlier, along with Buddhist Zen monks who came to Japan from Tibet in 538. This theory suggests that Japanese chin has common ancestors with a large and diverse group of dogs originating from Tibet. For many years, Asians worshiped the little dog as a sacred gift from heaven.

Dogs of this breed were bred with great enthusiasm in Japan. Short legs and flat muzzles, very reminiscent of human faces, were especially valued.Some breeders even fed their little dogs rice wine to stop the growth of the animal and thereby bring them closer to the ideal.

In the XVIII century, these small dogs were kept in special cages, like decorative birds. Since the emperor of Japan was born under the sign of a dog according to the Japanese horoscope, each family at that time out of respect for the emperor felt obligated to have at least one dog. Japanese chins were protected by law: anyone who harmed or behaved rudely towards dogs could even be executed.

In the world, this is probably the first dog from Asia that has appeared on the European continent since ancient times. The Portuguese missionary brought such a dog as a gift to the British king Charles II. In the XVIII century, Prince Marlborough crossed this dog with one of the British Shorthair Spaniels, thereby creating miniature spaniels.

One author in 1863 described the Japanese chin as a tiny dog, no more than 25 cm, which is very demanding in care and incredibly expensive. Perhaps, thanks to this description, Alexander, the wife of the British king Edward VII, wanted such a dog - and she had 28 of them. In 1853, Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry brought several khins from Japan to the United States of America - they aroused great interest.

In 1883, a cynological club of this breed was founded in the USA and chin began his dazzling career. Unfortunately, he had to compete with the more famous and popular pugs and Pekingese.

At the end of the 19th century, Japanese chin and Pekingese (which have many different stripes) looked pretty similar, even judges could be wrong. This is due to the fact that these breeds often crossed among themselves. At a dog show in New York in 1882, the Pekingese was even officially awarded as a Japanese chin. But today, thanks to the development of breeding and clear standards of this breed, no one will be able to confuse them.

The first thing that immediately attracts attention is the long, luxurious coat of Japanese chin. It does not have a dense undercoat, lengthens and fluffs in the area of ​​the tail, head and auricles. The tip of the muzzle of dogs is practically hairless. According to standards, the breed must comply with a strictly defined description.

• Color. The standard color of Japanese chin is black and white, red-white or black and white with brown spots (tricolor). The main background is always white.
• Head. Wide, with a convex forehead. The nose is very shortened, which gives the muzzle flattening.
• The muzzle has a large nose, located on the same level with the eyes. The nose is always black or in the color of the suit.
• Eyes. Large, widely spaced, slightly slanted. They are inherent in the effect, as if the dog was surprised by something.
• Height. Height at withers - up to 25 cm.
• Weight an average of 3-4 kg.
• average life expectancy - 12 years

Hins are smart, curious, and very good at training. They are ready to study diligently in order to please their master, and often succeed in trials of dexterity and obedience. The main thing is to use the methods of encouragement in the training process and in no case to punish or shout at animals. Activity is important for every dog, and Japanese chin is no exception - it needs daily walks.

The biggest advantage of hin is that he makes people smile. It is difficult to predict all his actions, but it is always fun and interesting. Japanese chin has a real penchant for pranks.One of his greatest pleasures is to watch the reaction of his owners that he gets by doing something funny or forbidden. Hin is a happy and cheerful pet, and he is happy to share this with his family.

Despite the cheerful disposition and small size, adult chin feels better in families with older children. Since they already understand that playing with a miniature dog you need to be careful. And with small and unfamiliar children, he is more often alert.

Since Japanese chin is bred exclusively as companion dogs, they are adapted only to life in the house, but not on the street. Due to the structural features of their flat muzzle, they are very sensitive to high temperatures, they can receive heat stroke when they are outdoors for a long time. Interesting Facts:

• in Japan, hin is considered a more elevated creature than dogs of another breed;
• he loves to walk, but does not like inclement weather;
• when the dog does not play, he sits at home on any hill, carefully watching everything that happens around him;
• the dog’s cheerful nature, adaptability and small size make it a suitable pet for both a small apartment and a large house;
• because of the love of acrobatics, the ability to climb tall objects and the tendency to clean hin, they also call a cat in a dog costume.

Japanese chin is not a dog that easily makes friends with the whole world. He loves his family, but he treats strangers wary. Does not allow strangers to touch themselves. The past (when he was considered a four-legged deity), of course, left its mark on the character of the dog. Hin has a magnificent posture and proud movements. The step at which he lifts his paws high is an attribute of past glory.

For its owners, hin is not at all arrogant, and can be a good friend. Unfortunately, chin is not a popular dog today. This little pet can be noisy and mischievous, on the other hand, he knows when to keep quiet and calm. Hins can show both deep affection and a sufficient distance with a person.

The sensitive intelligence of these dogs requires new experiences, so the dog constantly watches with enthusiasm everything that happens around her. Typical of a hin is a slightly surprised expression of the eyes with which he looks at the whole world and is still looking for new experiences. He always looks a little thoughtful. Not surprisingly, one can always expect a certain philosophical attitude from a true representative of the eastern world.

Pros of breed:

• lively temperament;
• cheerful disposition;
• elegant;
• affectionate and cordial;
• may be quiet;
• fascinating character;
• intelligent;
• attentive observer;
• pretty.

Jolly and philosopher in one being. Japanese chin certainly brings joy and good mood to the home of its owners. With enthusiasm, a joyful kid with silky fur is ready to dance on his hind legs around his master, wanting to cheer him up. A small fragile pet willingly demonstrates tricks and wants to be praised and rewarded. With acrobatic agility, he walks on his hind legs, asking for affection, kind words or treats.

A tired dog appreciates peace. He climbs onto a chair or sofa as high as possible, preferably away, and watches the events taking place around him. At some points, he may seem slightly surprised, but then he returns to his favorite pastime: watching the world.

Japanese chin falls in love at first sight. Sometimes it seems that there is no creature in the world more devoted to man than this dog. He knows exactly what he wants, but is ready to compromise and make concessions.People of the West often talk about the "impenetrable soul of the East", obviously, this applies not only to people, but also to the relationship between a person and Japanese chin.

Hin is very devoted to his master, but strangers do not deserve his love. However, this does not mean that the hin will meet guests in the house, showing his teeth - the dog will simply leave the room where strangers will be, or will not notice them. But he will be very happy when the guests leave. Such behavior is possible if the owner raised his dog correctly. A raised dog is a reward for the owner, because a raised chin is much more tolerant of "strangers." A spoiled dog, which was treated like a prince, will behave differently.

The character of Japanese chin does not fit harmoniously into modern life. For centuries, his home was the most beautiful palaces. He grew up surrounded by luxury, splendor and beauty. Hin is one of the last living witnesses of past culture and even the entire eastern civilization.

Japanese chin is a small dog, but really not so simple. These dogs do not need special care. But love and constant care are very important to them. Before you get a chin, you need to evaluate your strength, weigh the pros and cons. As the puppy becomes an important part of the family and is likely to remain in the family for many years.

If you choose a Japanese chin puppy - he must be over 8 weeks old. The most authoritative and responsible Japanese breeders will not even think about letting the baby go up to 8 weeks. Of course, there are unscrupulous breeders who are ready to sell a puppy of a younger age, but these are best avoided.

Professional and Responsible Breeders must issue documents confirming that the puppy is healthy and has passed all the necessary procedures. They must also provide a pedigree certificate and a description of its potential tribal qualities.

When choosing a Japanese chin puppy, you should pay attention to the following points:

• behavior and character - a healthy puppy is always active, curious and sociable;
• the physical state - the puppy's body should be strong, proportionate, without visible anomalies (too thin, sluggish puppy - this is not normal);
• ears should be clean, without signs of inflammation;
• eyes bright, without tears and discharge;
• tail should be raised and wagging.

Japanese chin is a noble dog, caring for it does not require much effort. Despite their rather temperamental disposition, they do not spoil the property and do not destroy anything in the house. Therefore, even the most scrupulous mistress will not be able to blame him for the destruction.

Japanese chin is one of the few dog breeds that can successfully live in the city, even in a small apartment. She will feel comfortable even in a typical studio apartment. First of all, Japanese chin appreciates the pleasant atmosphere of the house, and its size is a secondary matter. He loves warmth and comfort, soft pillows and warm rugs.

These dogs are not limited to staying only in the kitchen or in the lobby, because Japanese hins are a real decoration in the living room. The hin always has his favorite places in the house where he sits on the throne - on the arm of the sofa or on the back of the chair.

It is important that the place is high, so that it is convenient to observe everything that is happening around. It is amazing how a dog that is so reluctant to strangers gets along well with other dogs. She does not bark at every oncoming dog, and does not hide if she meets a much larger dog.Hin very rarely shows fear and usually communicates well with dogs, joyfully running with them in the park.

Although the Japanese chin looks rather fragile, this dog has good health. And the diseases that are characteristic of them are characteristic of most miniature canine breeds. This breed has a disproportionately large head, but it does not cause problems at birth. Puppies relatively quickly achieve independence, are born quite strong and independent. Common health problems include problems with the heart and joints.

In addition, breathing problems may develop due to the short muzzle. As well as the sensitive point of their health are large round eyes, requiring periodic care (washing). And you need to regularly check your ears for infection.

Grooming for a clean and unpretentious Japanese chin does not require much effort. It is enough to perform simple actions.

• To walk. Although the hin feels great in the house, it still requires at least 3-4 walks daily. You can limit yourself to one, if you accustom him to the home tray.
• To care for wool. Their long, silky coat needs simple daily care. Despite the length and volume, the wool does not tangles and does not stick together. Nevertheless, it is necessary to comb the dog regularly with a soft wire brush. The brush should be selected special, in order to prevent hair traction and injuries.

Usually, other dogs see combing as sophisticated torture. Hin, on the contrary, loves this procedure. The main thing is to do it carefully, and then care for the dog is easily carried out at home.

Hin, like the Yorkshire Terrier, loves to be beautiful and cause admiration - and this can not be achieved without combing.

• Carry out a hygienic haircut.
• Take time for water procedures. It is necessary to bathe a hina if necessary, but not more than once every 2 weeks. Wash paws and ears as they become dirty. For bathing today there is a large selection of zoo shampoos with additional antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. After bathing, you need to thoroughly dry the coat.

It's quite simple, but you need to understand that bringing a Japanese chin puppy home is like bringing a newborn baby home. This will mean regular feeding time (according to the schedule and recommendations of the breeder), playing time, sleeping time and training time. Raising a Japanese chin puppy is very interesting, but also very difficult. However, if everything is done correctly, you can enjoy a wonderful friend and companion for many years.

Despite their low weight, Japanese hones have a wonderful appetite. It is fairly typical that small dogs eat much more per kilogram of body than large dogs. Weighing about three kilograms, a little quin takes about 60 grams of meat per day, 30 grams of greens and the same amount of boiled rice or pasta.

A little yeast and two drops of oil, like the addition of vitamins or mineral preparations, will favorably affect its long fur. Japanese chin will adequately perceive the transition to ready-made dog food. It doesn’t matter for the hin dry food or canned food, but it must always be of the highest quality. It should be borne in mind that ready-made feed can help increase the volume of the animal’s stool.

However, under no circumstances should you often change one type of coma to another, because such an alternation of nutrition can lead to an upset stomach of the animal. You should also not overdo it with various delicacies, even if your favorite pet is very persistent and cute asking about it. The only thing that can be allowed to the dog without harm to health is a piece of biscuit or a small apple.

Japanese chin is a dog with a subtle psyche that loves and understands its owner very much. The dog is infinitely devoted to him. On a walk, a hin loves to frolic, run, but at the same time he strictly obeys his owner. Going for a walk with him, you can be sure that the curious and admiring glances of passers-by cannot be avoided. Looking at these cute creatures, it is easier to imagine him as a beautiful lady's beloved dog than a strong man's dog. Although dogs are equally fond of and loyal to both the owner and the hostess.

Hina needs to be brought up with great care and love, but very consistently. You should never give in to his manipulations, because it’s very easy to raise a small but strict tyrant. If necessary, Japanese chin will easily make it clear that it is misunderstood and underestimated. It is important to constantly show him how much he is loved and valuable.

Dogs of this breed can be successfully kept both in a city apartment and in a country house. It is worth remembering that the Japanese chin needs to actively move, and he will willingly go for a walk in a large park, forest or river. It is unacceptable to keep a proud and independent chin in a home corral (aviary). An exception may be forced separation from a pet, when you need to leave him for several days in the care of friends. This can be a good experience for the dog.

As a rule, Japanese chin is very skeptical about the new environment. He does not like change and, if necessary, can demonstrate not the best sides of his character. In some cases, you may even refuse to eat. Therefore, from early childhood, special attention should be paid to developing the ability to adapt and come to terms with the environment. The adaptation is favorably facilitated by the acquaintance of the hin with family friends and acquaintances.

Responsible owner must:

• instill discipline and obedience to the pet;
• fight his distrust and shyness towards strangers;
• spend enough time talking with your pet;
• provide hin a stable lifestyle.

The owner should not:

• spoil the dog too much;
• restrict the movement and walks of the animal;
• too much to allow or, conversely, to be too strict;
• leave the chin alone for a long time (work or vacation).

The Japanese chin loves children and with real enthusiasm takes part in the most incredible practical jokes. Although the hin looks like a fragile porcelain figurine, in fact it is quite a strong and stable animal, therefore it is ideal for various types of sports activities. However, children should remember that care must be taken when handling the dog.

The approach to choosing nicknames for Japanese chin can be different. It is worth considering the individual qualities of the pet, its temperament and character. Dogs respond best to fairly short and sonorous names. It is good that the name of the dog contains sounds such as "p", "j", "ks". Names such as the Joker or Max, the dog will be much easier to understand and learn than, for example, Lana or Leon. Well, if the name of the dog was not too long.

The best option is one or two syllables in the composition of the name. Long names are not only difficult to learn for a dog, but also not very convenient for its owner. It is much easier to call the dog with the short name Max than the longer version of Maximilian. Long nicknames eventually turn into something shorter and more practical.

Practice shows that each dog has at least three nicknames.One ordinary, one short (diminutive) and one when we are seriously talking to a dog or introducing it to our friends.

You should avoid popular names such as Max, Rex, Sonya, or Sim. It is better to be creative and name your dog more original. With the most common nickname, there is a high probability that other dog lovers may unknowingly call the dog during a walk. It is worth remembering that human speech for animals does not mean anything. It is very difficult for dogs to understand individual words from a whole stream of words.

Dogs are very confused by such nicknames that they are consonant with other important words or commands. Such a nickname as Sid, for example, when using the “sit” command, clearly complicates the pet’s training. Because these two words sound too much to hear.

The nickname must correspond to the dog, its appearance and temperament. But it is also worth remembering that puppies grow quickly, and the name will remain with the dog for life. A funny nickname, which was suitable for a small fluffy lump and touched everyone around, may not suit an adult proud dog at all. Of course, calling dogs is very exciting, but you need to approach this issue very responsibly.

Surely you should avoid nicknames that can be considered vulgar or offensive. And also do not give dogs human names. Many people may feel offended when a dog is named after their child, father, or grandfather. It’s better to leave human names for people.

If it happened that the owner chose the wrong name for the pet or chose a dog with a nickname, you can change it. Dogs get used to the sound of their name and learn to respond fairly quickly. However, nothing prevents to begin to teach even an adult pet a new nickname. Of course, you should not abuse it with the amount of these changes.

When choosing a breeding dog from the kennel, most likely she will have a rather long and thoughtful name. The nickname of a purebred dog consists of two parts: its own name, written in capital letters, and the name of the kennel. The breeder himself determines the sequence of the name. In everyday life, a convenient abbreviated form of the nickname is usually used. Interestingly, puppies born in the same litter must have names starting with the same letter of the alphabet. However, the alphabetical order of subsequent litters is unimportant.

Pedigree dogs are often nicknamed in English. This is true when the owner plans to exhibit the dog at foreign shows. It can be quite difficult for judges and assistants to remember and reproduce a foreign nickname for a dog.

Today, among Japanese chins, nicknames of Slavic origin are increasingly found. But initially, representatives of this breed were preferably called Japanese names. Here, for example, is a short list of Japanese nicknames for hin boys and girls:

• Airi;
• Akari
• Chio;
• Hina;
• Mia
• Nana
• Prince;
• Reina
• Ria
• Rico
• Rick
• Rina
• Rice;
• Sakura;
• Sarah;
• Shota;
• Soma
• Honeycomb;
• Taiga;
• Yushin;
• Utah.

Although the Japanese chin is not at the peak of its popularity today, nevertheless, this ancient imperial breed finds its loyal admirers all over the world. There are clubs and societies of lovers of this breed. She is actively bred and sold. Most owners agree that Japanese chin is the perfect breed of dog. Here's what they say about their faithful pets:

• noble, faithful and devoted friend;
• very smart, funny and funny pet;
• adapts well to a new environment;
• miniature and mobile - you can carry with you everywhere;
• proud and arrogant;
• loves praise and affection;
• does not require complicated care, it is enough to take care of long hair in an elementary way;
• ideal for maintenance in small urban apartments;
• willingly trained in teams, easy to train;
• very brave and decisive, will always defend his master;
• behaves wary in the company of strangers and young children;
• very fragile and tender pet, you can inadvertently injure him;
• he needs a lot of communication, he does not like to remain united for a long time;
• has pretty good health.

Of the shortcomings of the breed, owners of Japanese chins note several nuances.

• Moody temper. This may be due to insufficient education and lack of training.
• Propensity to genetic diseases. This is due to the peculiarities of the selection of this breed in order to reduce its size and form a typical appearance.
• Excessive caution or even cowardice. In terms of breed standards, this is a sign of a breed defect.

In the next video, you can get to know Japanese chin better.