Also known as the Moscovian Miniature Terrier, this breed was developed speccally as a small companion dog in the Russian capital.
This is a newish breed that was first recognized by the former Soviet Kennel Club in the 1960s. Its precise origin is not known, but it was probably created from crosses between English Toy Terriers (known to have been favourites at the Russian court in earlier days), Long-haired Chihuahuas, Papillons and perhaps some small, local mongrels. The result is the ideal urban Russian apartment dog. Russian dog-lovers living in cities often have severe problems with space for their pets, and this breed has been tailor-made to be tolerant of restricted living conditions. It has also been bred to be friendly with other city dogs, to bark less than usual, and to be less aggressive than the more typical, outdoor Russian dogs. Weighing 5-6 lb (2-3 kg), with a height of only 8I I in (20-28 cm), this is a true ‘toy’ breed. It is described as an inquisitive, lively, playful dog that is obedient and quick to learn. There are two varieties, short-haired and long-haired, and three main colour forms black, red or tan. Traditionally the tail has been docked.
The recent histOry of the breed begins in 1950 when a group of Moscow canine enthusiasts led by E. Zrovoin decided to stabilize it as a pure-bred animal. They developed a breeding programme, gave it its modern name of Moscow by Terrier, and introduced it at a dog show in 1964, when 24 examples were on display. Their breed standard was formally recognized in 1966.
In recent years the breed has been in great demand and has been exported to Russia’s neighbouring countries, including Finland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Germany and Estonia.
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