Russian Toy
Up to 3 kg for both males and females
20-28 cm at the shoulder
12-14 years
Russia
About the Russian Toy
The Russian Toy is one of the world's smallest breeds, characterized by its elegant, high-legged stature and fine-boned structure. Originally developed from English Toy Terriers in the 18th and 19th centuries, the breed was a favorite of the Russian aristocracy before nearly disappearing during the Russian Revolution. It was revitalized in the 1950s, leading to the development of the distinct long-haired variety. Despite their diminutive size, these dogs possess a 'big dog' personality. They are active, courageous, and highly observant, often acting as surprisingly effective alert dogs. Their physical appearance is defined by a small head, large expressive eyes, and prominent, high-set ears that give them an alert and curious expression. They are strictly companion animals and thrive on human interaction.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Russian Toy is a portrait of refined elegance, moving with a light, easy, and purposeful trot that belies its small size. The breed standard demands a square body proportion and a lean, tucked-up underline. The ears are a defining feature—large, thin, and high-set. What truly elevates this breed is its 'aristocratic' presence; they carry themselves with a charming mixture of dainty grace and terrier-like confidence. The long-haired variety is particularly striking when the 'fringe' on the ears is full and lush, creating a silhouette unlike any other toy breed.
In Australia
The Russian Toy was officially recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council (Dogs Australia) in 2009 and is classified within the Toy Group (Group 1) in Australia.
Bred For
Companion dog and lap dog, though they retain the vermin-hunting instincts of their English Toy Terrier ancestors.
Temperament
High-spirited, intelligent, and cheerful. They are exceptionally loyal to their owners, possessing a balanced nature that is neither cowardly nor aggressive.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , retained deciduous (baby) teeth, , and hypoglycemia. Their fine bone structure also makes them more prone to fractures from falls.
Exercise Needs
Moderate; they require daily walks and mental stimulation through play, but their small size means they can satisfy much of their activity needs indoors.
Grooming Needs
Variable; the Smooth-coated variety requires weekly brushing, while the Long-coated variety needs daily brushing to prevent matting, especially around the ear fringes.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living or small homes. They do not require a large yard but benefit from a safe, enclosed outdoor space for supervised play.
Good with Kids
Better suited to homes with older, respectful children who understand how to handle a fragile toy breed. They can be easily injured by rough handling from toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and pets, though they may be bossy with larger dogs and should be supervised to ensure they aren't accidentally stepped on.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them very trainable. However, they can be sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement rather than harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Two varieties: Smooth (short and shiny) or Long (fringed ears and feathered limbs).. Black and tan, brown and tan, blue and tan, lilac and tan, red with black, red with brown, red with blue, red with lilac, red, fawn, or cream.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Russian Toys are more likely to experience patellar luxation and dental overcrowding due to their small jaw size, which may require professional veterinary cleaning or even extractions. Their fine-boned limbs are predisposed to fractures if they jump from high furniture, so pet stairs are often a wise investment. Like many toy breeds, they can be susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly as puppies, and may require frequent small meals. They are known to be quite vocal and can become frequent barkers if not taught 'quiet' commands early. Separation anxiety is a known trait; they are more likely to thrive in homes where they aren't left alone for long periods. Finally, their thin coats make them sensitive to cold, so they often require coats or sweaters in Australian winters. While these traits require management, their devotion and spirited companionship make them incredibly rewarding pets.
Feeding Guide for Your Russian Toy
Healthy Weight
2.0-3.0 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
50-90 grams
Fresh or raw feeding should not be presented as preventing or treating a medical condition. Discuss diagnosis and dietary management with your veterinarian. Based on an average adult weight of 2.5kg, a daily intake of 2-3% body weight is recommended. This equates to approximately 50-75 grams of high-quality fresh food per day, ideally split into two meals to maintain blood sugar levels.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet rich in lean proteins and healthy fats. They thrive on fresh, minimally processed diets that support dental health and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
A balanced raw diet for a Russian Toy should focus on lean, high-quality proteins such as Majestik's kangaroo or beef options. Small amounts of pureed leafy greens or berries can provide essential antioxidants. Because they are prone to dental issues, providing very small, soft raw meaty bones or using a dedicated dental supplement can be beneficial.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Russian Toy Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Russian Toy? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-4 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.