You have a countless number of breeds to choose from when selecting the dog that will be your companion for years, even decades, to come. The breed you select is actually one of the primary elements that will shape your relationship with that dog; each breed has its own set of needs, strengths, and idiosyncrasies that you should be prepared to deal with.

The Japanese Chin of Yesteryear

These are not merely stereotypes that you’ve only seen in the occasional dog of a breed; these traits have been written into the genetic code of each breed over the course of hundreds, if not thousands, of years of tried-and-true breeding techniques. Consequently, you can get a pretty good idea of what you’re getting when you adopt a dog. For example, those who choose to go with the Japanese Chin know they are selecting an affectionate, happy, energetic dog that is ideal for urban housing.

The Japanese Chin’s origins are ancient indeed, and actually lie in China. Yes, history can lead to some interesting misnomers, and the Japanese Chin is an excellent one. Bred to be lapdogs and companions for the noble women of the Chinese Imperial Palace, the Japanese Chins were actually included in a number of ancient works of art, including pottery and embroidery; you can still see the to this day in museums! At the time, they were not for sale, but rather were given by one affluent and powerful individual to another as a gift of respect and honor. In this way, they made their journey to Japan.

The Japanese Chin Today

Today, of course, the Japanese Chin is a highly sought-after dog; the lapdog has become a common thing in our society, no longer derided, but rather seen as a valid choice in a world where space, and the energy investment of a large dog, is not always available. The Japanese Chin is a very small dog (belonging to the Toy Group) that is very affectionate and devoted, but which tends to be rather reserved with strangers. (You won’t have to worry about them going crazy over the mailman, for example.)

Their size makes them the perfect dog for an apartment. It would be cruel to have a golden retriever, greyhound, or Border collie in a small, cramped apartment in the city, but a Japanese Chin thrives in such an environment, having more than enough room to stretch its legs at home while also being able to enjoy trips to the park or simply around the block on occasion. They take some care due to their long, beautiful coat, but other than that, this is the perfect dog if you like a relatively low maintenance pet!