English Toy SpanielVSJapanese Chin

The English Toy Spaniel is known for being gentle, quiet, loving, while the Japanese Chin is typically described as charming, loyal, cat-like. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 3/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

The English Toy Spaniel is a small breed standing 25–28 cm (10–11 in) tall and weighing 4–6 kg (9–13 lbs). In comparison, the Japanese Chin is a small breed at 20–27 cm (8–11 in) and 2–5 kg (4–11 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The English Toy Spaniel has a long coat available in blenheim, prince charles, king charles, ruby, while the Japanese Chin sports a long coat in black and white, red and white, sable and white. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The English Toy Spaniel has low energy (2/5) with very low exercise needs (1/5). The Japanese Chin has low energy (2/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Japanese Chin, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The English Toy Spaniel is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.

Both breeds shed at a similar rate (3/5), so you can expect comparable amounts of loose fur from either one.

Both breeds have similar grooming demands at 3/5. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming visits will keep either breed looking their best.

Annual grooming costs average around $200 for the English Toy Spaniel and $150 for the Japanese Chin. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The English Toy Spaniel has a lifespan of 10–12 years, while the Japanese Chin lives 10–12 years. Both breeds have comparable lifespans.

The Japanese Chin is generally the healthier breed, scoring 3/5 for health robustness versus the English Toy Spaniel's 2/5. This often translates to fewer vet visits and lower medical costs.

Common health issues for the English Toy Spaniel include mitral valve disease, patellar luxation, open fontanel, retinal dysplasia. The Japanese Chin is prone to patellar luxation, heart murmurs, cataracts, GM2 gangliosidosis. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $600 for the English Toy Spaniel and $500 for the Japanese Chin. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 3/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

The Japanese Chin ranks higher in intelligence (4/5 vs 3/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

The Japanese Chin is the more intelligent of the two, scoring 4/5 to the English Toy Spaniel's 3/5. This means the Japanese Chin generally picks up new commands faster and is better at figuring things out independently. On the flip side, their sharp mind needs regular engagement through puzzle toys, training games, and varied activities to prevent behavioral issues.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in adaptive intelligence. Both are skilled at reading human emotions, adapting to new environments, and solving everyday problems on their own.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

For families with children, the English Toy Spaniel is the stronger choice, scoring 3/5 for kid-friendliness compared to the Japanese Chin's 2/5. The English Toy Spaniel's gentle nature makes it a natural fit for households with young ones.

The initial purchase price for a English Toy Spaniel ranges from $1,500–$3,000, while a Japanese Chin typically costs $1,000–$2,500. The English Toy Spaniel has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,100 for the English Toy Spaniel and $950 for the Japanese Chin. The English Toy Spaniel is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to grooming expenses.

Monthly food costs run about $25 for the English Toy Spaniel and $25 for the Japanese Chin. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.