Discover the Unique Russian Toy Terrier: Small but Spirited

Toy dog breeds are among the UK's most popular, with many small, charming types to choose from. Among them, toy terriers stand out for their lively, outgoing personalities despite their diminutive size.

If you’re exploring toy terrier breeds, you might come across the Russian Toy Terrier, an unusual and treasured breed with a loyal following in the UK, though it currently ranks 135th in popularity out of 241 breeds.

What is a Russian Toy Terrier?

The Russian Toy Terrier, sometimes called the Russkiy Toy, is an elegant little dog originating from Russia. Interestingly, its foundation stock descends from the English Toy Terrier. Although they have a long history in Russia, Russian Toys only began gaining recognition outside their homeland in the 1990s and remain relatively scarce but growing in popularity within the UK.

Pedigree Status and Recognition

In the UK, the Russian Toy Terrier is not recognised by the Kennel Club due to the breed population size and limited registration application. However, it is listed by international bodies such as the American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the world’s largest dog breed registry.

Cost and Availability of Russian Toy Terriers in the UK

Russian Toy Terriers are somewhat rare in the UK, with prices generally ranging from £800 to £2,000. Although the breed's affordability is reasonable compared to other small breeds, prospective owners often face waiting lists and may need to travel to find reputable breeders. Vaccination and microchipping are typically included in the purchase price.

When buying a Russian Toy Terrier puppy, it’s vital to seek reputable breeders committed to healthy, ethically bred puppies. Meeting the breeder and seeing the puppies ensures responsible purchasing and the wellbeing of the dog.

Appearance and Coat Types

Russian Toy Terriers are delicate and tiny, with an average height between 20-28 cm (7.8-11 inches) and a weight of about 3 kg (6.5 pounds). They have a fine, light bone structure, giving them an elegant, fragile look.

They have a distinctive appearance with a pointed, inquisitive face and their signature large, pointed "bat ears" often fringed with feathering, lending them a comical yet endearing expression.

The breed comes in two coat varieties:

• Smooth Coat: Short and glossy, lying close to the body.
• Long Coat: Fine, silky hair that may have a slight wave but remains close-fitting, with feathering around the ears and legs.

Colour-wise, Russian Toys may be solid red (sometimes with an overlay of black or brown), or combinations such as black and tan, brown and tan, or blue and tan. Rich, deep colours are preferred within breed standards.

Temperament and Behaviour

True to their terrier heritage, Russian Toy Terriers are lively, energetic, and full of personality despite their small stature. They enjoy bursts of activity and are affectionate lapdogs who thrive on companionship.

Exercising them is manageable with a couple of half-hour walks daily plus playtime. They are alert watchdogs, bold and protective of their territory, often barking to alert owners to visitors but not displaying aggressive behaviour.

Russian Toys are sociable, generally welcoming strangers with warming body language when gently encouraged but may initially be cautious around new people. They require early socialisation to develop confidence and avoid fearfulness or separation anxiety, as they do not cope well being left alone for long periods.

The breed’s tenacity is typical of terriers, and they can be a bit mischievous, sometimes digging in the garden or chewing toys, but they are usually manageable indoors.

Due to their size and affectionate nature, Russian Toy Terriers suit apartment living and urban households and can even be suitable for first-time dog owners looking for a well-rounded companion.

Responsible Ownership and Care Tips

Owning a Russian Toy Terrier requires commitment to their emotional and physical needs. Regular exercise, socialisation, and mental stimulation help prevent behavioural issues. Due to their delicate frame, gentle handling and avoiding rough play are essential.

Grooming needs depend on coat type. Long-coated dogs need daily brushing to prevent mats, while smooth-coated pets require less frequent grooming but regular checks of ears, teeth, and nails.

Nutrition should be of high quality to support their small size and activity level. Regular veterinary checks ensure health and wellbeing. Consider pet insurance for unexpected health costs, especially for rare breeds where genetic conditions may be unknown.

What to Ask When Buying a Puppy

When looking to find a Russian Toy Terrier puppy, always ask breeders about health tests, vaccination schedules, socialisation practices, and the puppy’s parents' temperaments and health. Avoid purchasing from puppy farms and always seek reputable breeders who prioritise animal welfare and responsible breeding.

Visiting the breeder’s premises to see conditions and meeting the puppies with their mother before purchase is highly recommended.

Conclusion

The Russian Toy Terrier offers a unique mix of charm, spunk, and affection in a tiny package. They make wonderful companions for those willing to commit to their care needs, socialisation, and gentle handling.

Though still rare in the UK, the breed’s popularity may grow thanks to its engaging personality and suitability for smaller living spaces. Responsible buying from reputable breeders ensures a healthy, happy pet who will bring joy to their owner’s life.