Russian Toy
Summary
The Russian Toy is an elegant and very small breed, developed in Russia from English Toy Terriers imported in the 18th century for the Russian nobility. During the Soviet era, the breed nearly disappeared behind the Iron Curtain, being reconstituted by Russian breeders based on the few surviving specimens. It exists in two varieties: short and smooth coat (Glatthaar) and long coat with ear fringes (Langhaar). It was recognized by the FCI in 2006.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Toy
- Height (male)
- 20–28 cm
- Height (female)
- 20–25 cm
- Weight (male)
- 1.5–3 kg
- Weight (female)
- 1.5–3 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Two varieties — short and shiny (smooth) or long on the ears, paws, and tail (long-coat)
- Common Colors
- Black and tan, brown and tan, blue and tan, red fawn (lilac is forbidden by the standard)
Temperament & Personality
The Russian Toy is an active, cheerful, and very affectionate dog with its family, combining aristocratic elegance with a lively and fearless personality. It is intelligent and responsive to training, participating successfully in obedience, agility, and rally. It can be reserved with strangers but is never aggressive. Its fragile neck and trachea require the mandatory use of a harness instead of a collar.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 30–45 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low to moderate
- Shedding
- Seasonal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 3–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Heart problems (murmurs)
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Patellar luxation
- Periodontal disease
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- Orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
