The Japanese Spaniel's proud appearance, short muzzle, small size and plume-like tail are just a few of the characteristics of this breed. This cheerful, affectionate and intelligent breed has only one ambition: to become your best companion.
Characteristics of the Japanese Spaniel
Underneath its stocky and robust appearance, the Japanese Spaniel is not dedicated to work. It reveals a very elegant physique and averages 30 cm in height for a weight of about 4 kg. The body ends with a long, bushy tail, carried in a plume and slightly raised. This breed is recognizable by its head with atypical features. It has a broad skull with a short muzzle devoid of wrinkles and a large nose that gives it a dignified and serious air.
His upper lips border the nostrils. His eyes are large and round, wide apart and black in color. The ears are "V" shaped and small. They are fringed and hanging. The Japanese Spaniel has an abundant coat. It is long on the whole body except on the face. The coat has a white background with black and red markings appearing on the ears, around the eyes and on the back.
History of the Japanese Spaniel breed
Contrary to what one might think, the Japanese Spaniel did not first appear in Japan but rather in Korea where it was exported to the Land of the Rising Sun in 750 as a gift for the Japanese emperor. There, it flourished to the point of being considered a sacred breed that could only be owned by noble families. The Japanese Spaniel was introduced in Europe around the 16th century where it also enjoyed tremendous success. Numerous personalities have adopted it, such as Queen Victoria, Marie-Antoinette and Mistinguett.
Living conditions and behavior of the Japanese Spaniel
The Japanese Spaniel is essentially a companion dog that adapts perfectly to indoor life. It is not a big barker and the fact that it is discreet makes it ideal for apartments. It is an affectionate, loyal, alert, intelligent and very generous cuddler. It is also very cunning, even a little tricky. It can live very well with the elderly because of its calm. Children and him also form an excellent tandem. On the other hand, the small blond heads will have to learn not to handle it too brutally. At home, this dog will have to be educated with firmness and softness at the same time not to become a domestic tyrant.
Diet and main health problems of the Japanese Spaniel
The Japanese Spaniel can live between 12 and 14 years. However, it is important to watch out for certain diseases to which it is prone. For example, because of its crushed face, it can develop a brachycephalic syndrome as well as joint or eye problems. He can also suffer from patella luxation, dwarfism or atlanto-axial instability. Moreover, it is a dog which does not support the excessive heats.
As far as food is concerned, provide him with small kibbles that fit his small jaw. As it can be easily prone to overweight, the excess of sweets is prohibited.
