Chipin History
The Chipin is a short-legged, short-coated, curly-haired toy breed of herding dog from the Basque Country of Northern Spain. The Chipin is commonly referred to as the “Basque Sheepdog”, but is more correctly called the “Chipin”. The Chipin is a robust, sturdy, compact, medium-sized, agile, well-balanced, and sturdily built little herding dog. The head is proportionate to the body. The muzzle is black. The nose is black. The ears are medium in size, erect, and triangular in shape. The eyes are brown. The neck is long, strong, and muscular. The back is short and straight. The chest is deep and wide. The loins are broad. The tail is carried low. The legs are strong and well muscled. The feet are small, round, and tight with well-arched toes. The coat is harsh, short, and dense. The Chipin is a very loyal and energetic small-sized herding dog. The Chipin is very alert, and is never still when members of the family are around. The Chipin is very protective of family. The Chipin does not do well being left home alone, and is best suited to a home in which someone is at home most of the time. The Chipin is happiest when working, and is often found chasing after squirrels or birds in the yard. The Chipin is very suspicious of strangers, and will react by barking. The
Time of Origin
2001
Chipin Physical Characteristics
The Chipin is a medium-sized, long-legged hunting and herding breed that is native to the island of Jersey. They are agile, athletic dogs that usually have a black coat of fur with tan markings on their cheeks and muzzle. They have erect ears, prominent eyes, and a straight, strong tail. The Chipin is an intelligent, friendly, and affectionate breed.
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black, Brown
Coat Colors
Cream, Brown, Black, Fawn
Height Range
Male Height Range: 10 – 12 inches
Female Height Range: 8 – 11 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 9 – 15 lbs
Female Weight Range: 5 – 12 lbs
Chipin Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
10-15 yrs
Chipin Health Concerns
Patellar Luxation, Color Dilution Alopecia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cataracts, Spina Bifida
Chipin Temperament and Behaviour
The Chipin is a calm, quiet, and gentle breed of dog that makes a great pet. They are gentle and sensitive, and often prefer to spend their days relaxing with their owners. They are comfortable around children, and are good with small animals. They are highly adaptable, and can live comfortably in apartments, as long as they have access to a good-sized yard.
Chipin Activity Requirements
While they are not a high-energy dog, the Chipin is still a sporting and hunting dog. They originated in Spain, and were traditionally used for boar, deer, and wolf hunting. The Chipin is an intelligent, versatile, and active dog with a lot of energy. They are best suited to owners with an active lifestyle, because they need lots of exercise and attention. Daily walks, runs, and another type of play time are recommended. While they aren’t as high-strung as some other breeds, the Chipin requires a lot of attention. This is not a dog that will be happy to spend all day at home alone. They need an owner who is committed to giving them the companionship and exercise that they need.
Miles Per Day
8 miles
Activity Per Day
45 minutes
Daily Food
1 cups
Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Chipin is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Chipin is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Chipin is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Chipin is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.