Russian Toy Terrier - All About the Breed, History, Origins, Types

Great Britain is the homeland of Toy Terriers. Everything about the breed became known in the 18th century when the small black-and-tan terrier became popular as a city dog. Originally, the breed was developed to assist in fox hunting and also to participate in the rat fights that were popular at the time.

History of the Toy Terrier Breed

The history of the Toy Terrier breed begins, as mentioned above, in the eighteenth century. The ancestors of the breed are considered to be the English black-and-tan terrier and the Manchester terrier.

Small and cute animals, known for their hardiness, were kept to combat small rodents. However, these four-legged friends quickly won the hearts of the English court and charmed the high society. The fashion for this breed played its role.

Where the Toy Terrier Breed Came From

The first dog shows began to categorize black-and-tan terriers by weight, and from 1920 they were divided into two categories, one of which was the miniature black-and-tan terrier. By 1962, this breed officially took the name – English Toy Terrier.

This breed was brought to us from England. In any case, the first official mentions of these dogs in Russia appeared in the early nineteenth century.

There is a legend that Peter I owned such a dog. The only support for this version is that the cost of these cute creatures was so high that only someone of royal blood could afford such luxury.

Where the Russian Toy Terrier Breed Came From

Before the revolution of seventeen, the salon dogs imported from England were hugely popular among the wealthy class. After the revolution and the war, the population of Toy Terriers significantly decreased, and the few remaining individuals scattered across the country. In the mid-twentieth century, Soviet cynologists, driven by enthusiasm, took on the task of restoring the breed. The task at that time was almost impossible, considering the fragmented breeding material that was gathered literally piece by piece. Specialists restored the breed, so to speak, blindly, as they had no opportunity to use the breed standards accepted abroad. In the sixties, cynologists almost completely restored the disappearing breed.

In 1960, 76 Russian Miniature Terriers were presented at a dog show. Some of them were long-haired. Moscow cynologists took on this branch of the breed, so don’t be surprised if you hear the name – Moscow Toy Terrier.

Since 1965, the standard for the breed – Russian Terrier – was approved in the Soviet Union. It was only in 2006 that the International Canine Federation decided to recognize the breed "Russian Toy" and assigned a number for its standard. The unified name included two varieties: "Moscow Long-haired" and "Russian Smooth-haired."

Types of Toy Terriers

The varieties of Toy Terriers according to the classification of the International Canine Federation (IKF) include several types:

• English. Considered a small variety of the Manchester Terrier, although the English Kennel Club classifies this dog as a representative of the toy breeds.

• Australian Silky Terrier. Another official name is Silky Terrier.

• Yorkshire Terrier.

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In the group of decorative dogs according to the same classification is included:

• Russian Toy. An independent breed belonging to decorative dogs.

There are smooth-haired and short-haired representatives of the breed.

There is also an unrecognized breed at this time by the IKF:

• American Toy Fox Terrier.
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Let’s focus on the most notable representatives of these breeds.

English Toy Terrier

The miniature Englishman can captivate you from the first moment of acquaintance with his energetic temperament and resilient character. This decorative dog needs affection and physical contact and loves to spend time with children. With an ideal build, excellent hearing, and an adorable face, but at the same time suspicious and openly unfriendly towards strangers – all this together allows us to call this indoor pet the most devoted companion.

If you are interested in the English Toy Terrier breed, you can find detailed descriptions, standards, and photos by following the link.

Russian Toy Terrier

The character of the Russian Terrier surprises with contradictions – the dog is compliant, but has a fiery temperament. The pet will eagerly engage in activities and training with you. He will happily play and learn alongside your children. However, this breed requires strict control from your side and the suppression of any signs of aggression. It doesn’t matter that the terrier may attack a dog ten times larger than himself; his heart is brave. Do not expose your pet to excessive risk; teach him to expend excess energy through active walks.

This dog can be chosen by both couples and single individuals or newlyweds. Raising and controlling the dog is not a difficult process, and in return, you will acquire a true loyal protector and friend, albeit a small one. Complete information about the Russian Toy Terrier – description, standards, photos can be found by following the link.

Colors of Toy Terriers

The standards for the colors of Toy Terriers are supplemented each year with reports of new unusual colors of puppies. For the color palette to receive official approval from the canine federation, time is needed, and new colors of "colored" terriers are so interesting. The standards are sparse and few, while life brings its corrections. Breeders are interested in continuing the selection of the breed – to our delight.

English – black with bright tan.

Russian:

• Black and tan.
• Brown and tan.
• Blue and tan.
• Lilac and tan.
• Fawn.
• Red with a black overlay.
• Red with a brown overlay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the homeland of the Russian Toy Terrier breed?

The Russian Toy Terrier originates from Great Britain, where its ancestors are the English black-and-tan terrier and the Manchester terrier.

Why was the Toy Terrier breed originally developed?

The breed was originally developed to combat small rodents and participate in fox hunting.

When did the Russian Toy Terrier receive official recognition?

The breed was recognized by the International Canine Federation in 2006.

What is the history of the breed's restoration in Russia?

After the revolution, the population of Toy Terriers significantly decreased, and in the mid-twentieth century, Soviet cynologists began restoring the breed using fragmented breeding material.

What is the Moscow Toy Terrier?

The Moscow Toy Terrier is a branch of Russian Toy Terriers that was developed by Moscow cynologists and includes long-haired variations.