How to Train a Black and White Japanese Chin

Black and white is one of three color combinations for a Japanese Chin. The toy breed may also be red and white or black and white with tan. These dogs are energetic, playful and affectionate. They prefer to be by their owners' sides at all times. Because of their small size, Japanese Chin are subject to certain hazards if they are allowed to become dominant or aggressive, such as fighting with larger dogs. Though they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Japanese Chin should be trained.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Establish a set of rules for your Japanese Chin. This dog will want to be with you at all times, and it can be underfoot. Establishing rules, such as staying off furniture or away from the table during meals, will prevent dominant behaviors from your dog and help you maintain some sanity. Enforce these rules consistently every day. If you allow your Japanese Chin to break a rule once, it will feel free to do so again and again.

    • 2

      Teach your dog basic obedience commands such as "sit," "stay," "down" and "come" by using dog treats, Cheerios or pieces of cheese as a lure. Hold the treat near your Japanese Chin's nose and, keeping it close but out of reach, move it down toward the floor. As your dog lowers its body in response, reward it. Continue this technique to teach your dog to lie down. Move the treat from your dog's nose to over its head to convince it to sit down.

    • 3

      Reward your Japanese Chin for obeying your commands, even if it can't fully sit or lay down at first. Start by rewarding even the smallest attempt. Your Japanese Chin won't understand your command at first, but rewarding it for moving the right way will teach it what you expect. Include praise in each reward. The Japanese Chin is an affectionate dog, and your praise will have as much, if not more, worth as the treat.

    • 4

      Eliminate the use of dog treats as a reward on a step-by-step basis. Each time your Japanese Chin masters one part of a command, start requiring it to complete more steps until it understands the entire command. Ask it to complete the command two or three times before rewarding it, until eventually you don't have to rely on treats to get your dog to obey. Never stop praising your Japanese Chin for being obedient. This is an effective way to reinforce training in this affectionate breed every day.

    • 5

      Enroll your Japanese Chin in basic obedience classes or hire a trainer to come to your home if you have difficulty teaching your dog basic commands or if it starts to show signs of behavior problems. Ask your trainer to show you how to practice with your dog at home and teach it more advanced commands in the future.