The Russian toy terrier is known as the "Russkiy toy breed." The new breed is available in two coat varieties, and both the long and smooth coats are adorable. This tiny toy breed only weighs up to seven pounds. The Russkiy is one of the smallest breeds in the world.
Russian Toy Terrier Breed Overview
This breed is small but certainly not delicate! The Russian toy is a tiny dog with a big personality. The nickname commonly used for this breed is the "Russkiy toy," and the miniature dog descended from English toy terriers. The toy breed is an active and energetic dog known for loving his family.
Origin and History
The Russian toy is a new dog breed developed in Russia in the mid-twentieth century based on the tiny English toy terrier. The English toy terriers were first brought to Russia in the eighteenth century to indulge the aristocracy's enthusiasm for the English way of life. This breed dropped in numbers during the Communist revolution of 1917. Only a few miniature breeds survived, and their descendants were known as the smooth-haired Russian toy.
Temperament
The Russkiy toy terrier is a delightful companion animal. This breed enjoys dashing through the backyard or lounging in a family member's lap. His big personality and small size also suit him for therapy work.
Appearance
The dog is available in two coat types and is about the same size as the popular Chihuahua. This tiny breed is one of the smallest dogs in the world! Two features of this little terrier are "large." He has giant expressive eyes and erect triangular ears.
- Coat colors: The Russkiy toy is available in red, black, and tan, as well as blue and tan.
- Height: This breed is between eight and 11 inches tall.
- Weight: The tiny terrier weighs up to seven pounds.
Two Coat Varieties
The Russian Toy is available in two coat varieties. The smooth coat is close-lying and soft to the touch, similar to the Manchester terrier. When mature, the long coat has silky featherings on the ears. Both versions of the breed are considered Russian Toys under the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard and are shown together.
Grooming
Grooming either the smooth or long coat is easy. Pet parents need to wipe down the smooth coat daily with a soft brush to remove dead hair. Use a soft-bristle brush daily on the long coat and comb out the feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. Trim the hair between the paw pads, too, to keep them clean.
Health Conditions
This breed is generally healthy. There are a few health conditions pet parents need to know about and discuss with a reputable breeder.
- Deciduous teeth
- Patellar luxation
- Bone fractures
Exercise
This breed may be tiny, but this terrier is an active dog with a lot of energy! Pet parents need to keep this tiny breed busy, and a brisk daily walk keeps your little buddy out of trouble.
Best Diet for Small Breeds
There are many diets specially formulated for smaller breeds. Watching your small breed's weight to make sure he does not become obese is extremely important.
Caring for Your Senior Russian Toy
All older small breeds need to visit the vet at least twice a year for wellness appointments. This tiny terrier's lifespan is over 12 years! If you want to keep your aging Russian toy healthy and happy, you may need supplements or pain medication for any achy joints.
The Russian Toy Is a Tiny, Feisty Breed
The Russian toy breed is a lovable dog with a big personality despite his tiny size. Any pet parent interested in living with a little terrier may enjoy this breed. He's small enough to fit in your purse. The Russian Toy Club of America is a wonderful resource for pet parents looking for puppies.
