Breed History
When Commondore Perry opened Japan to Western Trade in 1853, his host presented him with several little Japanese Chin as tokens of esteem.The Japanese Chin were the dogs of Japanese nobility.
A pair given to queen Victoria made the breed known in England. Queen Alexandra in turn took a lively interest in them. During the Russo-Japanese War she stressed Britain's neutrality by posing with a Japanese Chin under her left arm and a Russian Wolfhound (Borzoi) at her right side.
Following Perry's voyage, American demand for the dogs reached such a peak that dognaping became rife in Japan. Departing ships took on contigents of dogs. But interest slackened when the Pekingese caught the public eye. Even Japanese Chin fanciers turned to other dogs. Breeders in Europe and America have nevertheless maintained the quality of this high-stepping toy.
Though long associated with Japan, the Japanese Chin, may have originated in China. Similar dogs appear on old Chinese temples, pottery, and embroidery. China's emperors may have made gifts of these dogs to the Mikados. The true origin of the Chin remains a matter of controversy. It is widely agreed that these dogs originated in China. Some maintain the ancestors of these dogs first appeared in Japan around the year 732, as gifts from the rulers of Korea, while others maintain that they were given as gifts to the Empress of Japan as early as the mid-6th century to 7th century, and even some saying they came to Japan as recently as around the year 1000.
During World War I, the supply of Japanese Chins to America was cut off to such an extent that breeders were limited to the dogs already there. Japan, too, suffered losses when earthquakes played havoc among their breeders. Dogs found in England and Europe have helped to maintain a high level of quality and have since made their way to America to blend with the established lines there. The breed's compact size, coupled with being naturally clean, intelligent and sensitive, makes this an ideal companion.
