Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Japanese Chin is an ancient decorative breed originating from China and introduced to Japan more than a thousand years ago. These dogs were favorites of imperial courts and considered symbols of refinement and nobility. In Japan, the breed developed further and came to be regarded as a national treasure. Chins were kept in palaces, presented as gifts to honored guests, and strictly protected from export. In the 19th century, Japanese Chins were brought to Europe, where they quickly gained popularity as elegant companions. Today, they are known worldwide for their grace, calmness, and devotion to people.
General Appearance
The Japanese Chin is a small, elegant, and well-balanced dog with a square body format. The frame is light but sturdy, with a level back and well-developed chest. The head is large in proportion to the body, with a short, broad muzzle and expressive round eyes. The ears are covered with long, silky hair, adding to the breed’s refined appearance. The tail is set high, gracefully arched, and carried over the back with rich feathering. The coat is straight, silky, and medium in length, forming a ruff around the neck. The overall impression is one of delicacy, nobility, and perfect harmony of lines.
Important Proportions
The Japanese Chin has a compact, almost square build: the body length from shoulder to tail base is approximately equal to the height at the withers. The head is large and broad, the muzzle short—no more than one-third the length of the skull. The eyes are widely spaced, giving the breed its typical gentle expression. The tail is set high, gracefully arched, and carried over the back, balancing the silhouette. Limbs are of medium length, straight, and proportionate to the body. All parts should be harmoniously balanced, giving the impression of lightness, refinement, and equilibrium.
Behavior and Temperament
The Japanese Chin is known for its calm, intelligent, and affectionate nature. Devoted yet unobtrusive, it is sensitive to human emotions and bonds closely with its owner. The breed is quiet but lively and curious. Dignified and graceful in manner, it makes an ideal companion. Friendly toward other animals, adaptable to home life, and not prone to excessive barking, the Chin displays intelligence, attentiveness, and gentleness. Its demeanor embodies oriental nobility, balance, and inner grace.
Head
The head is large, broad, and rounded, with a short, wide muzzle and a smooth transition from forehead to nose. The forehead is high and domed, the muzzle square, the nose small, black, and positioned at eye level. Lips are thin, close-fitting, and slightly curved, giving a soft expression. The chin is well defined but not heavy. Eyes are large, round, and wide-set, with a kind, slightly wistful expression. Ears are triangular, pendulous, covered with long, silky hair blending with the neck coat, complementing the rounded shape of the head.
Facial Region
The face is short, broad, and in balance with the head. The muzzle is square and not pointed, with a distinct but not abrupt stop. The nose is small, dark, and located at eye level with open nostrils. Lips are fine, close-fitting, and slightly curved. The chin is neat, firm, and not protruding. The cheeks are smooth, giving a refined, noble expression typical of the breed.
Eyes
The eyes are large, round, and widely spaced, slightly prominent but not bulging, set straight in the head. The color is dark brown—darker preferred. Eyelids are tight, with clearly defined dark rims. The expression is gentle, intelligent, and calm. The correct eye shape and placement give the breed its characteristic oriental elegance.
Ears
Ears are medium-sized, triangular, and pendulous, set high and wide apart. They lie close to the cheeks and are covered with long, silky hair forming elegant fringes. The rounded tips and correct placement emphasize the breed’s aristocratic look.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, gracefully arched, strong yet slender, smoothly joining the head and body. The silky coat forms a light collar, enhancing the breed’s elegant outline.
Body
The body is short, compact, and square, with a firm but light frame. The back is level, loin short and slightly arched, croup gently rounded. The chest is broad and deep with slightly sprung ribs. The abdomen is moderately tucked up. All parts are in balance, giving the impression of strength combined with delicacy.
Tail
The tail is set high, heavily feathered, gracefully curved, and carried over the back or slightly to the side. It forms a soft, full plume, harmoniously completing the dog’s silhouette.
Forequarters
Forelegs are straight, fine-boned yet strong. Shoulders are long, sloping, and close-fitting. Elbows are set straight back, pasterns short and resilient. Feet are small, oval, and compact, with well-arched toes and dark nails.
Hindquarters
Hind legs are slender but muscular, with well-defined angulation allowing smooth, flowing movement. Thighs are firm, hocks short and vertical. Feet compact and oval.
Gait / Movement
Movement is light, smooth, and graceful, with free and balanced strides. The Chin moves with effortless rhythm, maintaining a steady topline.
Coat
The coat is straight, silky, and fine in texture, with moderate undercoat. The hair on the neck and chest forms a ruff; on ears, tail, and hind legs, longer feathering appears. The texture must remain smooth and flowing, never woolly or curled.
Colors
Permissible colors are white with black, red, or lemon patches symmetrically distributed. Distinct markings around the eyes and on the ears are preferred. A white blaze dividing the face is desirable. Solid colors without white or uneven patterns are faults.
Size
Height at the withers: 20–28 cm. Weight: 1.8–3.5 kg. The body should remain square and compact, without signs of frailty or heaviness.
Faults
Any departure from the standard, including coarse bone, narrow chest, long body, light eyes, or incorrect tail set. Wavy or woolly coat, asymmetrical markings, timidity, or overexcitability are undesirable.
Disqualifications
Severe deviation from type, incorrect bite, asymmetrical jaws, deformities, solid color without white, merle pattern, or unbalanced temperament (aggression or extreme shyness).
Important Notes
The Japanese Chin requires gentle care and responsible breeding. The ICCF emphasizes the preservation of structural balance, health, and temperament. Miniaturization or trimming that distorts the breed’s outline is not permitted. Only dogs with official ICCF documents confirming pedigree and standard conformity may be used for shows and breeding.
Conclusion
The Japanese Chin embodies oriental refinement, intelligence, and harmony. With its aristocratic appearance, balanced temperament, and graceful movements, it represents the ideal of a true companion dog within the ICCF system.
