Colors

Symmetrical markings are preferred when selecting a dog for show.
However over all quality is the breeder's first concern. Many top dogs in the
country, have sported a cheek smudge or less then symmetrical facial
markings. While markings do not make the chin, correct markings should
always be a goal of the breeder as well. These are some examples of mis-
marked dogs, however they are only a small example of the possible mis-
mark pattern types.

Ticking

The white areas of the Japanese Chin's Coat should be clear and free of black hairs, also known as
ticking or flecking. This is apparently not the same gene that causes spots in the Dalmation (as
previously thought) Ticking occurs to varying degrees. It is important that things like this be
considered when evaluating dogs as show/breeding prospects.

Smudges: also known as the Buddha's Kiss

These are some examples of "Buddha's Kisses" which usually occur on the forehead, top
of the head or cheek. Some can be very obvious while others more subtle. Cheek
smudges or small "finger prints" of color on the white areas of the head, are a fairly
common occurrence in the Japanese Chin. These markings could be the deciding factor
in placing a dog as a pet in some cases. While smudges are not preferred most breeders
examine the overall quality of the dog first and foremost.

Black and White

Black and white is the most recognized color combination in the Japanese Chin breed. As one can
see the striking contrast of the two colors produces a very flashy dog. This may be why the black
and white has traditionally dominated all other colors in the show ring. In the chin, black and white
is a dominant trait. The black and white combination can come in either extremes. Some dogs are
nearly solid black while others sport only small areas of color. It seems that in most countries that
the black and white coat color is the preferred combination for the show ring.

Red/brown

Red Japanese Chin are usually born all white or with very faint color markings and
darken as they age. The adult color of the red chin can be any shade of pale tan to a
deep red. The lighter variation of the red chin is often referred to as Lemon, but all
shades of red are most likely created by the same gene. The red and white chin will
not have pigment that is as dark as that found in the black and white or in the sable.
The pigment in the nose and pads may vary from a dark brown to a pale flesh color.
It is understood by Judges that the red and white chin will never have pigment as dark
as its counter colors and in some cases the eyes might be a lighter brown or gold as
well.

New born red and white puppies. There is one black and white
in this mix. Notice that they are born almost solid white. The
ones that have noticeable red marks such as puppy A, will
mature to be darker then those who do not. The faster that a
puppy gains color after birth will coincide with how dark that
puppy will be at adult hood. Puppy B and C have no markings.

Sable

The sable chin is probably the second most recognized color in the Japanese Chin. Sable is
often referred to as "red", but there is a distinct difference a true red and a sable. Sables
are usually born darker, sometimes almost black, and lighten to their red color as they age.
Sables also have black pigment, although they may sport a "snow nose" (the lightning of
pigment with age or lack of sunlight), as they age. Most sables begin life with black hairs in
their coats and some may loose all traces of black at adult hood leaving them a brilliant red,
most do retain a few dark hairs, at the tips of the ears and along any saddle markings.

Tri-Color

The Tri-color Japanese Chin is probably the most rare of any of the color combinations. Most
likely the reason why is that there are only a few countries, such as the United States and
Canada, that recognize the tri-color. Please let it be understood that just because a dog is a
less then common color, it does not mean that is a reason for it to be bred. Overall quality and
type must come before any particular color or pattern, for it is the entire package that
maintains the breed. The tri-color is basically a black dog with tan points. These markings are
distinctive and should not be confused with sables that may be heavily "tri-factored" (carry the
tri-color gene). While we refer to this color as "tri" it is genetically a "bi" color, black and tan,
paired with the white gene. The "bi" color (black and tan) is one gene, so the colors are
inherited together, and the white spotting a separate gene. However for simplicity sake it is
simply referred to as a tri-colored dog.