Understanding the Health of Your Russian Toy

Quick answer

The Russian Toy is a small, active companion that requires specific attention to its dental health, skeletal integrity, and physical development. While they are generally robust, owners should be vigilant regarding their teeth, joints, and bone strength. Regular monitoring and proactive veterinary care are the best ways to ensure your dog lives a comfortable life.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal groove. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. At home, you might notice your dog skipping a step, holding a leg up for a few seconds, or displaying an unusual gait while walking or running. Sometimes, the dog may stretch the leg backward to pop the kneecap back into place.

Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination to feel the stability of the kneecap within the groove. If the knee feels loose or moves out of place during the exam, the vet may suggest imaging to assess the severity. The urgency of this condition depends on the level of pain and the degree to which it interferes with your dog's ability to walk. A common mistake is assuming a limp is just a minor strain and waiting too long to have it assessed, which can lead to unnecessary discomfort.

Retained Deciduous Teeth

In some Russian Toys, the baby teeth do not fall out as the permanent teeth emerge. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice this at home when you see a double row of teeth, where the permanent tooth is pushing through while the baby tooth remains firmly in the gum.

Your vet will check for this during routine puppy examinations. If the baby teeth are still present when they should have been shed, the vet will likely recommend extraction to prevent the permanent teeth from growing in at the wrong angle or causing crowding. The main risk is that retained teeth create tight spaces where food and bacteria become trapped, leading to rapid decay. Do not wait for the baby teeth to fall out on their own if the permanent teeth are already visible, as this can cause long-term dental misalignment.

Tartar Buildup

Due to their small mouths, Russian Toys are prone to significant tartar buildup. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice bad breath, red or swollen gums, or a yellowish-brown crust forming along the gum line. If left untreated, this leads to gum disease and potential tooth loss.

Your vet will assess the stage of tartar accumulation during your annual wellness visit. They may recommend a professional cleaning under anesthesia to remove hardened plaque that brushing cannot reach. The most common owner mistake is ignoring bad breath, which is often the first sign of significant dental disease. Maintaining a lean body condition and providing appropriate dental chews can help, but professional intervention is often necessary to keep the mouth healthy.

Bone Fractures

Because of their delicate frame, Russian Toys are susceptible to bone fractures. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog suddenly refusing to put weight on a limb, crying out in pain, or showing visible swelling after a fall or jump.

Your vet will use physical palpation and X-rays to determine if a bone is broken. Because these dogs are small, even minor accidents can result in significant injuries. The urgency is high; any sudden inability to walk requires an immediate visit to the clinic. A common mistake is allowing the dog to jump from high furniture or play too roughly with larger animals, which increases the risk of injury. Always supervise your dog in environments where they might fall or be stepped on.