vs

Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.

Compare Havanese and Japanese Chin side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–15 years

12–14 years

Weight

4.5–8.1 kg

1.8–3.2 kg

Height

23–30 cm

20–27 cm

Origin

Cuba

Japan

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Havanese and Japanese Chin are both small, affectionate breeds that make excellent companions. The Havanese, originating from Cuba, is slightly larger and generally has a longer lifespan, ranging from 12 to 15 years. In contrast, the Japanese Chin hails from Japan and has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Both breeds are sociable and suitable for first-time owners, making them great choices for families and individuals alike. While they share similarities in energy levels and sociability, there are notable differences in size, exercise needs, and grooming difficulty that potential owners should consider when choosing between these two charming breeds.

Havanese — Advantages

• Longer lifespan (12-15 years)
• Slightly higher playfulness and trainability (4)
• Good exercise need balance (3)
• Apartment-friendly
• Good with kids
• Suitable for first-time owners

Disadvantages

• Heavier weight range (4.50-8.10 kg)
• Moderate grooming difficulty (3)
• Requires more exercise than Japanese Chin (3)

Japanese Chin — Advantages

• Smaller weight range (1.80-3.20 kg)
• Lower exercise needs (2)
• Easier grooming difficulty (2)
• Apartment-friendly
• Good with kids
• Suitable for first-time owners