9 Russian Dog Breeds: A Glimpse into Canine Diversity

Last Updated on October 27, 2023 by Fumipets

---

There are many different types of dog breeds in Russia. But Russian dog breeds have many traits with other dog breeds, including intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, and obedience. They also have a sturdy construction that enables them to resist the severe climate in Russia.

Due to this, the majority of Russian dog breeds make wonderful companions and working dogs. Nevertheless, each breed has distinctive qualities that enable it to succeed at the task for which it was bred. To prevent regretting your choice, it is essential to know what to anticipate from a breed before adopting it.

In this post, we’ll talk about nine of Russia’s most popular dog breeds.

The Top 9 Russian Dog Breeds Are:

1. Siberian Husky

Currently, the Siberian Husky is undoubtedly the most well-known breed of dog in Russia. One of the oldest dog breeds in the world, this medium-sized canine has a history that stretches back over 4,000 years. This dog was developed by the Chukchi people to pull sleds. Siberian Huskies are still used in sled racing nowadays.

The Siberian Husky was designed to be as sociable as possible, which is why it is such a great family pet. In fact, it was not unusual for tribe members to leave the kids in the care of an older Siberian Husky while they attended to other matters.

Siberian Huskies have a 14-year lifespan.

2. Caucasian Shepherd

The biggest Russian dog breed is the Caucasian Shepherd, sometimes referred to as the bear dog. This dog has a maximum weight of 225 pounds. It is, as you can think, quite strong and should not be taken casually.

The Caucasian Shepherd is one of the oldest mastiff-like breeds, with a history that stretches back more than 2,500 years. It comes from the Caucasus Mountains, where it was used to defend homes, hunt bears, and kill wolves.

The Caucasian Shepherd became a well-liked police and security dog across Europe due to its unrestrained power and aggressiveness. This species was used during the communist period to guard inmates in Gulag camps and act as border patrol along the Berlin Wall.

Caucasian Shepherds are great security dogs, but since they may be aggressive and difficult to train, they are not recommended for first-time owners. However, this breed may be good for individuals or couples with the right socialization and training.

3. Russian Black Terrier

A moderately big dog, the Russian Black Terrier may weigh up to 130 pounds. This dog, also known as the Chornyi Terrier, was created during the height of the Cold War to be a working and military dog. It has two coats to help it endure the cold and severe weather.

This breed is powerful, vivacious, and active. When forced to defend its handler, it becomes ferocious.

4. Borzoi

The Russian word “Borzoi” means “quick.” It goes without saying that the Borzoi is among the world’s quickest dogs, with a top speed of 36 mph. This majestic-appearing sighthound was developed in the ninth century to hunt wolves.

But Borzois are fantastic companions because of their charming nature. Some owners have said that these dogs are “cat-like” in their laid-back demeanor. To be happy and healthy, people need to exercise often.

5. Russian Toy Terrier

The Russian Toy Terrier, often called the Russkiy Toy, is a little lap dog that was developed as a playful pet for Russian nobility. This breed’s ears are feathered, which adds to its cuteness.

The Russkiy Toy is endearing, devoted, and loving. This dog is really sassy, much like other toy dogs, and will act up unless you pay attention to it. Russkiy Toys also appear to be unaware of how little they are since they are willing to confront huge canines. Consequently, use caution while walking your Russian Toy Terrier.

6. Samoyed

Even though the stunning Samoyed seems to be a show dog, its Siberian creators over 3,000 years ago bred it to be an all-purpose canine. This dog was a natural at many jobs, including hunting, reindeer herding, and pulling sleds.

Samoyeds are “Smiling Sammies” because they are not only adorably cute but also wonderfully kind. They also have big, charming grins. You’ll also be happy to discover that even as adults, they maintain their charming innocence.

However, you should be aware that this long-haired cutie demands a lot of maintenance before you acquire a Samoyed. To be content and healthy, it also needs a lot of activity. The Samoyed also struggles in warmer weather.

7. Karelian Bear Dog

More than 2,000 years have passed since the Karelian Bear Dog first appeared. It has been used to create a number of well-known breeds, including the Siberian Husky and Russian Spitz.

This breed is as bold as they come since, as its name suggests, it was formerly employed to kill bears. Unfortunately, the tenacious character of the Karelian Bear Dog makes it unsuitable for households with kids and other pets.

8. Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Caucasian Shepherd and the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, often called Alabai, are related breeds. As a consequence, the disposition of the Alabai is extremely similar to that of the Caucasian Shepherd.

Because of this, even though the 180-pound Alabai is undoubtedly the greatest security dog on the globe, handling one needs training. Similar to the Caucasian Shepherd, the Alabai is not appropriate for households with kids and other animals.

9. South Russian Ovcharka

The South Russian Ovcharka is a breed that originated in the Ukrainian Steppes between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. It is sometimes referred to as the South Russian Sheepdog or the Ukrainian Shepherd Dog.

Because of its versatility and lack of requirements, this breed of dog is very well-liked in Russia. Additionally, it makes a great guard dog due to its strong protective instincts.

Conclusion

Some of the greatest cuddly human friends are Russian dog breeds. They are devoted, resilient, and caring people who excel at what they do. But many of these breeds struggle in warm environments.

---