Russian Toy Terrier

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

Russian Toy Terriers are companions to the Russian aristocracy, and their blue-blooded genes show through. These are noble little dogs who like to sit laps and eat liver. But they're also very playful and need plenty of entertainment and short walks. These breeds are an intelligent and affectionate companion dog. They are believed to be one of the smallest breeds in the world. It was a high valued decorative breed in Russia during early 20th century.

These breeds are also known by the names : Russikiy Toy, Russian Longhaired Toy Terrier, Russian Toy Terrier, Moscovian Miniature Terrier, Moscow Toy Terrier and Moscow Longhair Toy Terrier. The Russian Toy dog breed was bred from English Toy Terrier and was relatively unknown outside Russia until 1990s.

Color

The Russian Toy Terrier generally comes in colors like red, sable or black & tan. Brown & tan or Blue & tan are also acceptable but are seen rarely.

Coat

The coat of this breed is is categorized by two, the long haired or smooth coated. The only difference by the two is the long hair on the ears of the long haired type which is usually 3-5 cm long and can be straight or with a slight wave.

Personality

The Russian Toy Terriers are very lively, friendly, loving, trustworthy and intelligent breeds. They are adorable dogs which are never timid nor aggressive. They are devoted to family and enjoy being a humane companion. They are eager to join in any activities and loves when they get the attention they wanted. When socialized properly, they also become sociable with strangers as well. In addition, the dog gets along well with children and other pets int he house. This wonderful canine is considered as a true companion dog.

Care

Long haired Russian Toy Terrier breed dogs require more grooming than the smooth coated Russian Toy Terriers. Therefore, the one belonging to the long haired variety need to be brushed almost daily whereas the ones with the smooth coat can be brushed 2-3 times in a week or wiped with a damp wash cloth. Both varieties, however, need to be bathed at least once in a month. Other grooming responsibilities include trimming toenails, checking and cleaning ears, brushing teeth and other such tasks. These petite dogs may be susceptible to patellar luxation, knee cap dislocation and bone fractures. Some dogs may have allergies to flea medications or certain vaccines.

Training

These breeds are smart and obedient dogs. They are very easy to train, in fact, they can be trained for agility trials quite well. A firm, confident leader of the pack is needed to establish dominance over the dog to avoid problem behaviors.

Activity

These active and agile breeds requires regular play sessions and daily walks to help them to always be in good health. Interactive games help remove boredom as well. They will need a free open area to roam around freely from time to time. Lack of physical activity and mental stimulation can give rise to destructive behaviors. These small dogs are also suitable for apartment situation but they need not to be confined to small spaces.