Training a Japanese Chin: what works and what to expect

Chins learn quickly but on their own terms, much like a cat. Gentle, reward-based sessions of a few minutes work best, and a scolded Chin simply shuts down. Tricks such as spin, wave and bow come easily, partly because many Chins already do them unprompted.

House training is often the slowest part, especially in cold or wet weather, when a Chin may flatly refuse to step outside. A covered toilet spot, a strict schedule and generous rewards help, and some owners set up an indoor pad area as a backup. Meeting calm visitors regularly as a puppy reduces shyness with strangers, and a Chin should always be allowed to approach new people at its own pace.