Keeshond vs Japanese Chin
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Keeshond
Non-Sporting Group
Japanese Chin
Toy Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Keeshond Overview
Keeshonds are distinctive spitz-type dogs featuring a luxurious double coat in silver and black, with distinctive 'spectacles' around their expressive eyes. Their fox-like face, coupled with a proud, plumed tail and thick ruff around the neck, creates an instantly recognizable silhouette. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, they carry themselves with confidence and grace.
Japanese Chin Overview
Japanese Chin dogs feature distinctive large round eyes, flat faces, and feathered ears that create an endearing expression. Their elegant silhouette combines a small, square body with a profuse, silky coat that flows gracefully. Refined and aristocratic in bearing, these companions display a dignified demeanor while maintaining a playful spirit that charms their families.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Keeshonds are less energetic than Japanese Chins, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Keeshonds require more grooming attention compared to Japanese Chins.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Keeshonds tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Japanese Chins.
- Trainability: Japanese Chins may be slightly easier to train due to their Japanese Chin's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Japanese Chins adapt better to apartment living, while Keeshonds typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keeshond and Japanese Chin, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Keeshond | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Toy Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Keeshond | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-18 inches 43-46 cm | 8-11 inches 20-28 cm |
| Weight | 35-45 lbs 16-20 kg | 7-11 lbs 3-5 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Keeshond | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Lively, Outgoing | Charming, Noble, Loving |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Keeshond | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Keeshond Temperament
The Keeshond is known for being friendly, lively, outgoing, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Japanese Chin Temperament
The Japanese Chin is characterized by being charming, noble, loving, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Keeshond and Japanese Chin, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Keeshond
Rating: 3/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Keeshond
Rating: 1/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Keeshond
Rating: 4/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Keeshond Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Keeshonds require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Keeshonds require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Japanese Chin Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Japanese Chins need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Japanese Chins require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Keeshond Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Heart Issues
- Eye Problems
Japanese Chin Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Heart murmurs
- Patellar luxation
- Eye problems
- Respiratory issues
- Dental problems
Pros & Cons
Keeshond
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Intelligent and trainable
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- Heavy shedding
- Regular grooming required
- Can be vocal
- Needs regular exercise
- May be stubborn
Japanese Chin
Pros
- Excellent apartment dog
- Gentle disposition
- Low exercise needs
- Good with other pets
- Elegant appearance
Cons
- Delicate health
- Difficult to housebreak
- Temperature sensitive
- Regular grooming needed
- Can be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Keeshond and Japanese Chin, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.