Russian Toy vs Old English Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Old English Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Old English Sheepdog: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Old English Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Russian Toy3/5
Old English Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Russian Toy3/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Russian Toy3/5
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Old English Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: PRA and cataracts
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
Pros & Cons Comparison
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature sensitive
Old English Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming requirements
Can be stubborn
Requires significant exercise
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
Old English Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat earned them the nickname 'Bobtail,' despite actually having a naturally long tail!
Heritage & Purpose
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
Old English Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in western England during the 1800s, these dogs expertly drove cattle and sheep to market across the countryside, earning their reputation as skilled herding companions.
Special Considerations
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.
Old English Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions essential to prevent matting. Needs consistent exercise routine and early socialization. Monitor for signs of overheating in warm weather.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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