Wetterhoun 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.
Wetterhoun
Foundation Stock Service
Japanese Chin
Toy Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Wetterhoun Overview
Wetterhouns are distinctive Dutch water dogs characterized by their curly, water-resistant coats and powerful swimming abilities. Their robust build, balanced proportions, and alert expression reflect their heritage as skilled hunting companions. Standing 23 inches at the shoulder with a sturdy frame, these dogs display a combination of strength and agility essential for their traditional waterfowl retrieval work.
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: Wetterhouns are less energetic than Japanese Chins, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Wetterhouns require less grooming attention compared to Japanese Chins.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Wetterhouns tend to be more reserved 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 Wetterhouns typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Wetterhoun and Japanese Chin, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Wetterhoun | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 13-13 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Toy Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Wetterhoun | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5-23 inches 13-58 cm | 8-11 inches 20-28 cm |
| Weight | 50-75 lbs 23-34 kg | 7-11 lbs 3-5 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Wetterhoun | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Loyal, Good-Natured, Intelligent | Charming, Noble, Loving |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Wetterhoun | Japanese Chin |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Wetterhoun Temperament
The Wetterhoun is known for being loyal, good-natured, intelligent, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. 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 Wetterhoun 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
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Wetterhoun
Rating: 3/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Wetterhoun
Rating: 2/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Wetterhoun
Rating: 2/5
Japanese Chin
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Wetterhoun Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Wetterhouns 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, Wetterhouns require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
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
Wetterhoun Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Ear infections
- Bloat
- Skin allergies
Japanese Chin Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Heart murmurs
- Patellar luxation
- Eye problems
- Respiratory issues
- Dental problems
Pros & Cons
Wetterhoun
Pros
- Excellent swimming ability
- Loyal family companion
- Weather-resistant coat
- Good hunting instincts
Cons
- Requires regular exercise
- Can be stubborn
- Limited breed availability
- Needs water access
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 Wetterhoun and Japanese Chin, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.