Breed essentials

Russian Toy breed standard: practical overview

A reader-friendly summary of core traits described by the AKC and FCI. For judging, breeding or registration decisions, always consult the current official standard directly.

TraitOverview
Overall typeSmall, elegant, lively, long-legged, fine-boned and lean-muscled.
HeightAKC: 8–11 inches at the withers.
WeightAKC: up to 6½ pounds.
CoatTwo varieties: smooth-haired and longhaired.
TemperamentActive, cheerful and intelligent; may be somewhat reserved with strangers but should not be cowardly or aggressive.

Body and outline

The AKC describes a square build, meaning body length and height are approximately equal. The overall impression should remain elegant rather than heavy.

Two coat varieties

The smooth-haired variety has short, close-lying hair. The longhaired variety carries longer coat and characteristic feathering, especially around the ears and limbs. The official standards describe details more precisely, including accepted colors and faults.

Sources