Japanese Chin Information And Breed Standards

General Appearance
Elegant and aristocratic, smart, compact with profuse coat.

Characteristics
Intelligent, happy, lively little dog who possesses a look of astonishment.

Temperament
Happy, gentle and good natured, making the Japanese Chin an excellent choice in companion dogs.

Head and Skull
Large in proportion to size of dog, broad skull, rounded in front, and between ears, but never domed. Nostrils large, black, except in red and whites where the color can be appropriate to markings. Muzzle very short, wide, well cushioned, upper lips rounded on each side of nostrils, jaws level.

Eyes
Large dark set and far apart eyes, showing a little white, possessing a look of astonishment.

Ears
Small, set wide apart, high on head, carried slightly forward, V-shaped, well feathered.

Mouth
Bite preferably level or slightly undershot.

Neck
 The Japanese Chin's neck is moderate in length.

Forequarters
Legs straight, fine bone, giving slender appearance, well feathered down to the feet.

Body
Square and compactly built, wide in chest. Length of body equal to height at withers.

Hindquarters
Straight, viewed from behind, good turn of stifle, profusely feathered from the back of thighs.

Feet
Slender, hare-footed, feathered at tips, pointing neither in nor out.

Tail
Set high on level back, profusely feathered, closely curved or plumed over back.

Gait/Movement
Stylish, straight in movement, lifting the feet high when in motion.

Coat
Profuse, long, soft, straight. Absolutely free from curl or wave, not too flat, having a tendency to stand out especially at frill of neck.

Color
Black and white or red and white. Red includes all shades of sable, lemon or orange. The brighter and clearer the red the better. Color evenly distributed on cheeks and ears and as patches on body.

Size
The daintier the better, providing type, quality and soundness are not sacrificed. Ideal weight for a Japanese Chin is 4 to 7 pounds.