Jennifer Dellos | Crossway Russian Toys

Interview with Jennifer Dellos, Breeder of Crossway Russian Toys

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What are the hallmarks of your breed and why are they important for maintaining breed type?
3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year?
4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder?
5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?
6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Jennifer Dellos

1. Six years back, I discovered this incredible breed, the Russian Toy, while searching for a companion lapdog that has a vibrant personality, is easy to care for, and gets along well with other dogs. Although I continue to be actively engaged with Akitas and Whippets, the Russian Toy has truly won my heart, prompting me to engage more with the breed and take on a significant role in our parent club as the President of the Russian Toy Club of America.

I have been involved with dogs since 2007, when I started a program focused on pet dog training and behavior. I developed and sustained a successful business until we relocated to Texas in 2011. It was during this time that I acquired my first AKC Conformation dog, an Akita.

I had my first litter in 2017, and that experience truly strengthened my commitment to breed preservation. I find animal husbandry incredibly fulfilling—everything from researching stud dogs to whelping and nurturing the litter, to choosing the ideal home for each puppy.

My kennel name is Crossway Russian Toys (also Crossway Akitas and Crossway Whippets), and I am currently living in northwest Mississippi, near Memphis, Tennessee.

2. Hallmarks? Square and leggy: While Russian Toys are characterized by their square shape, the leg length is also crucial, ideally being just over half the height at the withers, yet having a depth of chest that reaches the elbows. While some people prefer a specific ratio, such as 60/40 or 55/45, I recommend trusting your instincts. Does the dog you see appear to have enough leg length?

Overall, they are refined and elegant, with sexual dimorphism only slightly defined. Ears are large, high-set, and erect—with or without fringe, depending on coat type. Conversely, many people view their fringe as a defining feature, which isn’t accurate since there is a smooth-coated variety in this breed.

Without these unique nuances, a Russian Toy might resemble a stray dog of uncertain origin, and it is our duty as breeders to preserve the integrity of these delicate differences.

3. Yes. This little dog, known for its athleticism and playful nature, charms everyone with its remarkable ability to learn and its deep love for its owners.

4. I have always been passionate about the science of breeding, particularly valuing a natural approach to animal husbandry. Being a hands-on person, I took the initiative to learn how to draw blood and perform my own tests, such as progesterone and brucellosis. Furthermore, I have recently started using genetic testing to guide my breeding choices to better “stack the deck” in our favor.

In breeder communications, the era of searching for breeder websites on Google is a thing of the past. Today, the focus is on what is showcased on TikTok and Instagram. Although some individuals might still find breeders through the parent club’s website or a Google search, most require us to reach out to them. As a result, I am shifting my efforts to establish a presence in the right digital spaces.

5. I wouldn’t describe it as a change in perception, but rather as an ongoing shift that renders the purebred dog less significant. Very few people acknowledge or grasp the immense worth of a puppy that comes from years of careful breeding practices, raised in a nurturing and stable environment by a breeder who invests a great deal of time to ensure that the puppy has a strong foundation for their new family to build upon, creating a companion that brings joy to everyday life.

6. The “us against them” mindset is on the rise—and it won’t cease until both sides recognize the other’s viewpoint, whether it’s accurate or not, and take responsibility for their role in it. Although I genuinely think that everyone is here for the dogs, this is frequently not shown in our choices or behaviors. This idea holds true in every facet of our sport, whether it’s in the rings, within our clubs, or among the breeding community. Instead of pointing out the mistakes of others, if we focus on our own actions and reactions we can shift our attention towards finding solutions instead of dwelling on problems.

7. I was excited when the AKC (American Kennel Club) implemented friendlier policies for Junior Showmanship, like removing the requirement to be an owner to exhibit a dog. Moreover, an increasing number of clubs are providing free or discounted entry fees for Juniors.

I’m optimistic about the path the AKC is following to boost engagement and participation by introducing entry-level sports for families, such as Fast CAT and Barn Hunt.

Furthermore, the focus on canine health and welfare is gaining traction within the breeder community to enhance genetic diversity and reduce the prevalence of genetic diseases.