Compact and Portable

Russian Toys are tiny, making them easy to transport and suitable for apartment living.

Affectionate and Loyal

They form strong bonds with their owners and are highly affectionate.

Energetic and Playful

Despite their size, they are lively and enjoy playtime, making them entertaining companions.

Low Grooming Needs (Smooth-Coated)

Smooth-coated Russian Toys require minimal grooming.

Fragile Build

Their small size makes them prone to injuries, especially in homes with young children or larger pets.

Sensitive to Cold

Russian Toys have little body fat and may need extra care in cooler climates.

Can Be Vocal

They may bark excessively if not properly trained or socialized.

High Energy for Their Size

They require regular play and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Russian Toys are energetic and require regular play and short walks to stay healthy. They enjoy interactive play, puzzle toys, and agility exercises suitable for their size.

Walks

Russian Toys benefit from one or two short walks per day, combined with indoor playtime. They are well-suited to urban environments and do not require extensive outdoor activity.

Training

Russian Toys are intelligent and eager to learn, but they can be sensitive and may require gentle, consistent training methods. Positive reinforcement works best, and early obedience training helps establish good behaviour. They can be prone to barking, so training to manage excessive barking is recommended.

Purchase Price

$2,000 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $300 - $500 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $300 - $600 AUD per year, given their small size and dietary needs.

Grooming

Grooming costs vary depending on coat type. Smooth-coated Russian Toys have minimal grooming needs, while long-haired ones may require professional grooming every few months, costing around $200 - $400 AUD per year.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $400 - $800 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $300 - $600 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing potential dental or joint issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $15,000 - $25,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Russian Toys typically stand 20-28 cm (8-11 inches) tall and weigh between 1-3 kg (2-6 lbs), making them one of the smallest dog breeds.

Coat

Russian Toys come in two coat types:

Smooth-Coated

Short, sleek, and low-maintenance.

Long-Haired

Longer coat with feathering on the ears, tail, and legs, requiring more grooming.

Colour Options

Russian Toys come in a variety of colours, including black and tan, brown and tan, blue and tan, and red in various shades, sometimes with black or brown overlay.

Temperament

Russian Toys are known for their lively, playful, and affectionate temperament. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They are social dogs that enjoy being around their families but can be reserved or shy around strangers. Their small size and energy make them ideal for active individuals or families.

Good with Children

Russian Toys can be good with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. However, their delicate build makes them less suitable for homes with very young children who may unintentionally harm them.

Socialization

Early socialization is important to ensure Russian Toys are confident and comfortable around new people, pets, and environments. Proper socialization helps prevent shyness or over-excitement.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Russian Toys prefer to live indoors and are highly adaptable to apartment living. They enjoy spending time with their families and require minimal outdoor space for exercise.

Apartment Living

Russian Toys are well-suited to apartment living due to their small size and low exercise needs. They do not require a yard but benefit from short outdoor walks and playtime.

Time Alone

Russian Toys do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that thrive on companionship and may develop separation anxiety if isolated for extended periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day.

Common Health Issues

Russian Toys are generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions, including, patellar luxation (knee dislocation), dental issues due to their small jaw, hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) and sensitivity to anaesthesia

Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and careful handling are essential for maintaining their health.

Guarding Ability

While not aggressive, Russian Toys are alert and may bark to warn their owners of strangers or unusual activity. Their vocal nature makes them effective "alarm dogs."

Affectionate Nature

Russian Toys are loving and enjoy spending time with their families. They often seek attention and cuddles, making them excellent lap dogs.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Russian Toys can be social with other dogs, but supervision is recommended in dog parks due to their small size and fragility. They are best suited for playdates with similarly sized dogs.

Climate Adaptability

Russian Toys are sensitive to cold weather due to their small size and thin coat. In cooler climates, they may need extra warmth, such as dog jackets or blankets. They adapt well to indoor living in Australia's warmer climates.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.