History of the Russian Toy
The modern Russian Toy developed in Russia from small companion terriers and was shaped into a distinct breed with smooth-haired and longhaired varieties.
From companion terriers to a distinct Russian breed
According to the FCI breed standard, English Toy Terriers were popular in Russia in the early 20th century. Breeding numbers later fell sharply, and Russian breeders began rebuilding the population in the mid-20th century from dogs available locally. Over time, the type developed along a path distinct from the English Toy Terrier.
The longhaired variety
The FCI standard records an important development in 1958, when a puppy with noticeable ear and limb feathering was born from two smooth-haired dogs. Breeders preserved that trait, and the longhaired variety became established alongside the smooth-haired variety.
Modern recognition
The FCI recognizes the Russian Toy in Group 9, Companion and Toy Dogs, with both smooth-haired and longhaired varieties. The American Kennel Club granted full recognition to the Russian Toy in 2022 and places it in the Toy Group.