In Russia, people used to love giant spiteful dogs. However, in the present time, many Russians are into owning cute little canines. Back in the 1990s, big fighting dogs were famous in Russia, and people use them to protect their houses and families from criminals. Some of these big dog breeds include Caucasian Shepherds, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Rottweilers, and Bullmastiffs. But the situation has changed, as people there today prefer small or medium-sized dogs that live long, easy to care for, intelligent, and easy-going. They are now choosing dog breeds that can engage in sporting activities and as well as interact well with kids.
There’s actually no official statistics for the popularity of dog breeds in Russia. But the Russian Kynological Federation and the Russian Canine Organizations Union have provided some data on the popularity of dog breeds in the country in 2017. If you are curious about what these breeds are, then read on as we are going to give you a list of the most popular dog breeds in Russia.
1. French Bulldog
French bulldogs appeared in Russia in the early 20th century. It is a popular breed within high society. In fact, poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and singer Feodor Chaliapin both owned French bulldogs. After the Second World War, the French bulldog breed almost disappeared because it was associated with the imperial era intelligentsia. But its popularity came back to Russia after a few years. In 2017, there are about 11,000 French bulldogs registered in the country.
2. Pug
Pugs are those wrinkly, short-muzzled mug, and curled tail dogs. It is a small decorative breed that originated in ancient China. Pugs were popular among aristocracies, and they lived in extravagant houses. Later on, the breed was brought to France and Europe, where it also became a favorite among nobilities. Russians also like to feel aristocratic. That’s why the breed was also introduced to Russia. In 2017, there are over 12,000 Pugs that were registered in the country.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a hunting dog breed that came from Great Britain. When hunting, they tandem with other dogs by digging into holes and furrowing foxes. In 2017, there were more than 14,000 Jack Russell Terrier dogs that were registered in Russia.
4. Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The Central Asian Shepherd dog is also known as Alabai. This breed came from Central Asia, where it was used as a shepherd and a service dog. It is one of the oldest breeds and has been serving as a man’s best friend for over 4,000 years. In 2017, there were more than 17,000 Central Asian Shepherd dogs that were registered in Russia.
5. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a sled dog that originated from the Russian Far East. It is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and is popularly used as a companion. The popularity of this breed increased after the TV series, Game of Thrones, was launched in 2011. It’s because the Husky looks a lot like Direwolf, which is the symbol of the Stark family in the show. In 2017, there were more than 20,000 Siberian Husky registered in Russia.
6. Labrador Retriever
The reason behind the popularity of the Labrador Retriever in Russia is because it is owned by Russian President Vladimir Putin. In 2017, there were over 22,000 Labrador Retrievers that were registered in the country.
7. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd dog breed is very popular in Russia because it is being used as a service dog in the Russian police, rescue operations, armed forces, and more. It is due to its balanced and mobile type behavior. This breed is flexible to different types of training, and as well as the change of masters. In fact, it is one of the most intelligent dogs in the world. In 2017, there was more than 24,000 German Shepherd registered in Russia.
8. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the world. It has good health, communicative skills, flexible nature, and high intellect. They are also easier to keep in smaller homes and apartments. That’s why they became one of the most popular dog breeds in Russia. In 2017, there are more than 41,000 registered Chihuahuas in the country.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a toy dog breed. It enjoys moving around in the bags of their owners. Selling cute and adorable dresses, shoes, and accessories for this dog breed also has become a highly profitable business these days. The Yorkshire Terrier is a very popular dog breed in Russia, with more than 43,000 registered in 2017.
10. German Spitz
The German Spitz is a charming and foxy-like dog that can attract anyone with its cuteness. However, this dog breed can sometimes have temperament issues. But it is still the most popular dog breed in Russia, and more than 70,000 were registered in 2017.
These are the most popular dog breeds in Russia. All of these are indeed very good dog breeds to take care of. Which of these dog breeds would you like to have as a pet soon?