Ten Dog Breeds Most Popular with Russians

Ten Dog Breeds Most Popular with Russians

“In the 1990s, large fighting dogs were very popular because people wanted to protect their homes and families from criminals. Rottweilers, Bullmastiffs, Neapolitan Mastiffs and Caucasian Shepherds are in great demand,” said Vladimir Urazhevsky, President of the Russian Union of Dog Organizations.

However, the situation has changed and today Russians prefer small or medium-sized dogs that live long, are easy to care for, intelligent and easy-going, as well as those that can take part in sports activities and interact well with children.

There are no official statistics on the popularity of dog breeds in Russia, and each of the three organizations responsible for dog registration there has its own opinion about what breeds are most popular.

1. German Spitz

More than 70 thousand dogs of this breed were registered by the RKF in 2017. These small, fox-like dogs can charm anyone and are a favorite for all family members. It is not surprising that this breed heads the list. However, this dog’s personality is not always pleasant.

2. Yorkshire Terriers

This type was registered more than 43 thousand times. They prefer to move around their owners rather than on their own. In addition, producing shoes, dresses and decorations for this type of dog is a very profitable business.

3. Chihuahuas

It is the smallest dog in the world, with more than 41 thousand registered in Russia. Judging from its appearance and size, it is no different from a giant rat. Good health, high intelligence, communicativeness and flexibility are the characteristics of this breed. It’s no secret that the reason they have little popularity in Russia is that they are easier to store in small apartments.

4. German Shepherd

With 24 thousand registered in 2017, the reason for its popularity is its function as an officer dog in the police, armed forces, rescue operations and others in Russia. The type of behavior is balanced and flexible to various types of training to changing employers. It is one of the most intelligent dog breeds, behind the Border Collie and Poodle, according to Dr. Stanley Coren.

5. Labrador Retrievers

There were 22 thousand registered Labrador Retrievers in 2017. This breed of dog is owned by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Now you know, right, why is he popular?

6. Siberian Husky

These sled dogs originate from the Russian Far East. As many as 20 thousand are registered there, and it is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. He is also used as a companion. The popularity of the Siberian Husky increased after the popular TV series Game of Thrones launched in 2011. It looks very similar to the Direwolf, the symbol of the Stark family.

7. Central Asian Shepherd Dog

More than 17 thousand individuals were registered in 2017, this breed is also known as Alabai. Its name explains that it originates from Central Asia, where it was used as a shepherd and officer’s dog. The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest breeds, serving as man’s best friend for over 4 thousand years.

8. Jack Russell Terriers

This hunting dog originates from Great Britain. During the hunt, he cooperates with other dogs by digging holes and eliminating foxes. More than 14 thousand head were registered by the RKF last year, but SKOR puts it in first place in the popularity list (but does not provide exact figures) and don’t forget to visit our site for other interesting information by visit us