Russian Toy health: what owners should know

Most Russian Toys are healthy, but they are prone to typical toy-breed problems: broken legs from falls or jumps, patellar luxation, retained baby teeth with early dental disease, and low blood sugar in very small puppies. Some lines are also affected by Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, a hip condition in which the head of the thighbone breaks down. Responsible breeders check kneecaps and avoid breeding from extremely small dogs.

Keep your dog at a healthy weight, provide ramps or steps for furniture, and never let young children carry it around. See a vet immediately if your dog is limping or holding up a leg after a fall, or if a puppy becomes weak, trembling or unresponsive. Bad breath or red gums also warrant a check.