Russian Toy

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment12–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Patellar luxation · Dental issues · Legg-Calvé-Perthes

The Russian Toy descends from the English Toy Terrier, which was popular among the Russian aristocracy before the revolution and was then rebuilt from very few dogs in the mid twentieth century. It exists in two varieties, smooth-coated and long-coated, the latter distinguished by dramatic long fringing on the ears. It is one of the smallest breeds in the world, typically one and a half to three kilograms. Despite the delicate look it is lively, alert and confident, with a strong watchdog instinct and a tendency to bark at anything unfamiliar. Russian Toys attach very intensely to one person and can be reserved or nervous with strangers, so early, positive socialisation is the single most valuable thing an owner can do. They are intelligent and take well to training, and they suit apartment living easily, needing only short walks and indoor play. The main risk in daily life is physical fragility. A dog this small can be seriously injured by a jump from a sofa, a trodden foot or rough play with a child, so supervision and steps or ramps are practical necessities. Dental disease is close to universal in dogs this size, so daily tooth brushing genuinely extends life. Buy from a breeder who screens for patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, use a harness rather than a collar to protect the trachea, and keep the dog warm in winter, since it has almost no body mass to spare.

• How much exercise does a Russian Toy need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Russian Toy need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Russian Toy suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Russian Toy a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Russian Toy live?

  12–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Russian Toy?

  Keep an eye out for Patellar luxation, Dental issues, Legg-Calvé-Perthes. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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