Though the fabulous Russian Toy was recognized as a breed by the AKC in 2022, the general public still rarely encounters them—there were reportedly only 775 Russian Toys in the U.S. as of that year. According to owners, it’s not uncommon for even dog show spectators to mistake the smooth coated Russian Toy for a Chihuahua when admiring these dogs from afar. Both breeds are small and lively, and when held in their owner’s arms, some differences can be subtle. Nevertheless, if you see a tiny dog at the end of a leash and your first thought is “Chihuahua,” keep these distinctions in mind.

Russian Toys have long legs. Their bones are also finer and more delicate than a Chihuahua’s, and this makes many people consider Russian Toys to be a lean, elegant, and refined breed. Think: Russian prima ballerina.

Chihuahuas have shorter legs that contribute to their charming, compact appearance. While the Chihuahua featured in the movie Legally Blonde was named “Bruiser,” he was anything but a hulking figure. In fact, imagining a Russian ballerina standing next to him highlights their delightful contrast and showcasing the unique beauty of both breeds.

Because Russian Toys are as tall as they are long, they are square.  Chihuahuas are rectangular, slightly longer than they are tall.

Another difference is in their heads. The Russian Toy has a narrower ‘noggin’ with a longer, more delicate muzzle while the Chihuahua has the famously well rounded “apple dome” skull with a shorter and wider nose.

Differences become very apparent when coat is involved, and that’s a topic for another day.  For now, we invite owners of either breed to share more subtle differences that we missed.

Image: Russian Toy by Yury Nikalayeu | Dreamstime; Chihuahua by Dennis Jacobsen | Dreamstime