The Russkiy Toy, or Russian Toy, is a small dog breed originating from Russia, which has been bred as a companion animal for the Russian nobility for centuries. Despite a decline in its popularity, the breed was rediscovered in the 1950s and continues to gain popularity. This lively and affectionate dog adapts perfectly to apartment living, making it an excellent companion for those looking for a small, dynamic, and loyal dog.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Russia
- Type: Toy
- Hypoallergenic? Yes
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 1-3 kg
- Female: 1-3 kg
- Height:
- Male: 20-28 cm
- Female: 20-28 cm
- Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
- Exercise Needs: 45 minutes to 1 hour per day
- Apartment Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Perfect for apartment living)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along well with children, but be careful of rough interactions due to its small size)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Generally sociable with other animals, but socialization is key)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be reserved with strangers but remains affectionate with its family)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Well-suited for apartment living due to its small size and moderate exercise needs)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Simple maintenance but requires regular care)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance in terms of care and feeding)
- Frequency of care:
- Grooming: Regular brushing is necessary to remove tangles and dead hair, especially for the long-haired variety.
- Hygiene: Occasional baths, as well as regular ear and dental care, are recommended to maintain its health and well-being.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-2000 €
🏡 Important note
The Russkiy Toy is an excellent choice for those living in apartments or smaller spaces. Its small size and low exercise needs make it an easy-going dog. Although it is very attached to its owner and loves being the center of attention, it needs socialization and regular interactions to thrive. Its lively and playful temperament makes it perfect for families, but be cautious of its physical fragility, which requires gentle handling, especially with young children.
