Discover 15 Unique Russian Dog Breeds
Russia, the largest country in the world, has produced numerous dog breeds. These breeds range from the fluffy, snow-loving Samoyed and vocal Siberian Husky to the small Russian Toy, reflecting the country’s diverse landscapes.
Learn more about these 15 Russian dog breeds.
01 of 15
Samoyed
When you picture a white, fluffy dog, it�s likely the classic Samoyed. These smiling dogs have upright ears, a double coat, and high energy. Originally bred to herd, hunt, protect, and pull sleds, Samoyeds need tasks to keep them occupied but are very loyal and affectionate companions.
Breed Overview
02 of 15
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies gained popularity in the early 1900s with their sled-pulling abilities and have been beloved ever since. Known for their energy, friendliness, and soft, double-coat, these vocal dogs shed heavily and need ample exercise, which makes them better suited to certain homes.
Breed Overview
03 of 15
Borzoi
The Borzoi, once known as the Russian Wolfhound, resembles a Greyhound with longer hair. Tall, slender, and fast, they were bred to chase prey. These dogs need plenty of safe space to run, as their instincts will urge them to pursue any critter they see.
Breed Overview
04 of 15
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Bred in southern Russia and the Caucasus to protect flocks, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog is naturally wary of strangers but extremely loyal to its owners. Their large size and double coat make them unsuitable for small homes or those without livestock needing protection.
Breed Overview
05 of 15
Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier, though not actually a terrier, is intelligent and calmer than typical terriers. Loyal but cautious with strangers, its development involved breeds like the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, and Newfoundland. It belongs to the working group, not the terrier group.
Breed Overview
06 of 15
Russian Toy
The Russian Toy, occasionally called the Russian Chihuahua, is a playful and affectionate small dog. They enjoy spending time with their owners, shed minimally, and require regular dental care but are generally healthy.
Breed Overview
07 of 15
Moscow Watchdog
Like a Saint Bernard, the Moscow watchdog is a big and furry breed. This protective dog was bred to tolerate Russian winters and guard livestock. While it isn’t officially recognized as a dog breed outside of Russia just yet, the Russian Kennel Club is working on expanding its recognition internationally. For now, they can primarily be found in Russia and Hungary.
Breed Overview
08 of 15
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
Similar in personality to the more commonly seen bichon frise, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a small and charming dog. They have straighter hair than a bichon and can come in a variety of colors. They are smart, great with families, known to live a long time, and even hypoallergenic.
Breed Overview
09 of 15
Central Asian Shepherd
While not yet eligible for registration with the American Kennel Club, the Central Asian shepherd has been around since ancient times. This working dog was bred to withstand harsh environments and protect herds and people from predators. They are not for everyone but are great dogs if they are utilized for what they were bred to do.
Breed Overview
10 of 15
Russian Spaniel
While not yet officially recognized as a breed by any major kennel club, the Russian spaniel is a popular breed in Russia. The breed standard was agreed upon in 1951, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that various other spaniel breeds were no longer utilized to create this gun dog. The breed is loved for its loyalty, stamina, energy, and other skills appreciated by hunters.
Breed Overview
11 of 15
South Russian Ovcharka
Bred from several breeds including sighthounds and herding dogs, the South Russian Ovcharka is a protective and shaggy dog. This breed is designed to withstand rough winters and keep flocks safe.
Breed Overview
12 of 15
Sulimov
Not often seen outside of Russia, the Sulimov dog was initially bred from jackals and huskies. This unique, hybrid breed is popular with law enforcement and can be found sniffing around Russian airports looking for explosives.
Breed Overview
13 of 15
Laika
Several different kinds of dogs are referred to as Laikas, but this dog breed was originally developed in Russia to pull sleds, herd, and hunt. Eventually, four Laika breeds were identified that vary somewhat in size and appearance: the Karelo-Finnish, East Siberian, West Siberian, and Russo-European Laikas.
Breed Overview
14 of 15
Chortai
Also known as the Hortaya Borzaya and similar in appearance to the greyhound and borzoi, the Chortai is a sleek, shorthaired, sighthound. This Russian breed is used for hunting and used to be referred to as the Russian Greyhound in the early 1800s.
Breed Overview
15 of 15
East European Shepherd
Like several other large, Russian dog breeds, the East European shepherd was developed to endure the harsh Russian winters. This dog looks similar to a German shepherd but was bred to be larger than their Western cousin.
