Introduction

We are Charlie and Linda Braun, owners of a few good Chin in Goose Creek, South Carolina. Our hobby is to breed genetically healthy (built to last) show-quality Chin. We have our dogs tested by specialists for healthy eyes, hearts, and patellas (knees). We also do the only DNA health test available for Chin - GM2 Gangliosidosis. You can read more about our dogs by clicking on each dog's photo above.

January 2, 2012 Video of training Luna and Glory to gait down and back.

What is a Japanese Chin?

Chin are quiet, playful, affectionate dogs, originally from China and Korea, then from Japan. They are NOT quiet if a stranger comes into the house or yard. Their faces are flat (brachycephalic) like Pekingese, but their legs are straight and long, they have a lighter build, and their silky "single" coats are easy to brush. Some enjoy competitive sports like Conformation, Agility or Obedience. Adults weigh from 4 to 18 lb., but successful Conformation dogs typically weigh between 5 and 10 lb.

Chin may have any of the health problems known in other flat-faced breeds. The Japanese Chin Club of America recommends that all adult dogs used for breeding undergo OFA and CERF exams by veterinary specialists to certify healthy hearts, eyes, and patellas (see CHIC). The OFA also offers "GM2-clear" certification using a DNA test to find carriers of GM2 gangliosidosis, a lethal, inherited neurological disease.

Chin cannot tolerate high temperatures and will pant heavily, straining to get air. A Chin suffering from heat stroke will have a tongue turning blue and must be placed in front of a fan in air-conditioning and sponged with lukewarm water on the way to the vet!

All Chin occasionally snort, snore, and "reverse-sneeze." Reverse-sneezing looks like the dog is having difficulty breathing, but it is not usually serious. A fit of reverse-sneezing may be brought on by exercise, gulping dinner too fast, or allergies. Persistent breathing problems may be caused by overweight, heart failure, inadequate nostril size, elongated palate, or other throat defects. A Chin that has frequent breathing problems should be taken to its regular vet for diagnosis and referral to the appropriate specialist.

Chin can only be happy hanging out with their people—on the couch, in your bed, in the car, going on walks together, and playing with other Chin. Do NOT buy a Chin if you plan on keeping it in a crate or kennel all the time. It will cry and bark and be miserable. Puppies desperately need Chin companions. If you want to buy a puppy, consider also adopting an adult Chin first to keep the puppy company. Most adult dogs adapt quickly to loving new families. They are just as affectionate and almost as playful as puppies. My house is like a circus sometimes, with all the Chin ladies (and Frankie the Dude) chasing each other around.

News!

Jelly-Roll has been adopted by a nice couple in NC who already have a Chin and a Shih-Tzu.

What is a Good Dog Breeder?

Some people would tell you there are no good dog breeders - they are all "puppy millers." My response is to ask, do you think there should be no pure-bred dogs? They should all be accidents of dogs left to run around the neighborhood loose?

I believe a good dog breeder tries to breed mentally and physically healthy dogs. They don't breed more puppies than they can sell. They don't keep more dogs than they can keep HAPPY. A happy dog gets adequate exercise, food, grooming, play with other Chin, and hands-on affection. Chin have always been bred to be companions. They need to be WITH their humans. When you visit a breeder, ask to see where their dogs spend their time.