Russian Salon Dog History

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Establishment in the United States

The Russian Salon Dog Club of America (RSDCA) was founded in 2023 by Julie Burdette, a lifelong toy breed enthusiast, exhibitor, and breeder of both Biewer Terriers and Russian Salon Dogs. Julie’s dedication has been instrumental in bringing the breed forward in the United States with the goal of eventual recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The RSDCA serves as the parent breed club for the Russian Salon Dog in the United States, welcoming members both nationally and internationally who share a passion for preserving and advancing this young breed.

The breed was first introduced to the United States through the late Karen Hansen, a respected Biewer Terrier breeder from Colorado. Since then, Russian Salon Dogs have steadily grown in popularity as more dedicated breeding programs have been established.

Milestones in Recognition

2013: Official recognition by the Russian Cynological Federation (RKF) in Russia

2016: Presentation at the World Cynological Championship in Moscow

2023: Recognition by the International All Breed Canine Association (IABCA), allowing the breed to compete in conformation events and earn titles

2024: Acceptance into Phase 2 of the Bloodlines Listing Service with the United Kennel Club (UKC), with advancement toward full UKC recognition anticipated

These milestones mark the Russian Salon Dog’s progression from a national treasure in Russia to an emerging international breed.

Origins in Russia

The Russian Salon Dog was first developed in 1996 by Yulia Lakatosh in Russia. Through careful selection of several small companion breeds, Lakatosh aimed to create a dog that was:

Small and elegant in structure

Gentle and adaptable in temperament

Distinctive in appearance, with erect ears, a rounded head, and a flowing long coat

After nearly two decades of refinement, the breed gained official recognition in its country of origin and began making its way onto the world stage.

Breed Characteristics

The Russian Salon Dog, often affectionately called RUSALKA (from RUsskaya SALonnaya sobaKA, meaning “Russian Salon Dog,” and also referencing the word mermaid in Russian), has quickly earned admiration as both a show dog and a beloved companion.

Key traits include:

Cheerful, gentle temperament – making them well-suited for family life and companionship

Compact size and balanced build – characteristic of the toy group

Coat versatility – the long coat may be kept natural for exhibition or trimmed short for easier maintenance, with both styles accepted under the standard

Coat Varieties & Color

The breed is unique in offering a wide range of coat colors. To preserve clarity and consistency in exhibitions, Russian Salon Dogs are separated into two color groups:

Red group (phaeomelanin-based colors such as reds, golds, and creams)

All other variations (eumelanin-based colors including black, blue, chocolate, and diluted shades)

These groups are judged separately at shows, with each eligible for awards.

This distinction is not only important in the exhibition ring but also in breeding programs, where careful management of color genetics ensures the preservation of type, predictability, and alignment with the breed’s developing standard.

A beacon of intelligence and passion, Yulia Lakatosh left an indelible mark on the world of canine enthusiasts. Her unwavering dedication to the preservation and improvement of the Russian Salon Dog breed is a testament to her love for these remarkable animals.

As a visionary breeder and a renowned dog show judge, she possessed an uncanny ability to discern the finest qualities in a dog. Her expert eye and keen understanding of the breed standard guided countless breeders and exhibitors toward success.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Yulia was a woman of extraordinary compassion and kindness. Her love for dogs extended far beyond the show ring, as she was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Though her life was tragically cut short by cancer, her legacy will live on through the countless dogs she brought into the world and the countless lives she touched. Let us honor her memory by continuing to celebrate the beauty, intelligence, and loyalty of the Russian Salon Dog breed.