The Soviet Army, in an attempt to breed a fabulous working dog, created the Black Russian terrier. The dog was used to patrol the borders with its soldiers. Although the breeding program was strong during the Cold War, it fell out of favor during the Russian Revolution and World War II. During these times, government money was better spent on other pursuits. The breed was created by crossing rottweilers, giant schnauzers, and Airedales. There are other, large Russian breeds and great Danes in the Black Russian terriers’ ancestry as well. The first of the breed was brought to America in 1989. The first American kennel was established in Mississippi. It wasn’t until 2004 that the AKC officially recognized the breed, adding it to the working group.
The Black Russian Terrier is a muscular and strong dog, capable of pulling heavy loads. It has a powerful head and body and shows great agility. It has a double coat with a dense insulating undercoat and a coarse waterproof outer coat. This breed has low maintenance grooming needs but its coats should be regularly trimmed otherwise it hinders the dog’s movements.
Personality
This is a smart and intelligent dog that is very protective of its family. They are fearless, courageous protectors and are very social and friendly. They need moderate daily exercise in the form of walks or games. They can be stubborn and independent and can be aggressive towards dominant or strange dogs.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Schnauzer |
| Function: | Working |
| Origin: | Asia |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Working |
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Blackie |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Black Russian Terrier Build Information
The Black Russian Terrier is a muscular and strong dog, capable of pulling heavy loads. It has a powerful head and body and shows great agility. It has a double coat with a dense insulating undercoat and a coarse waterproof outer coat. This breed has low maintenance grooming needs but its coats should be regularly trimmed otherwise it hinders the dog’s movements.
| Size: | Large |
| Length (Male): | 27-33 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | > 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
This is a smart and intelligent dog that is very protective of its family. They are fearless, courageous protectors and are very social and friendly. They need moderate daily exercise in the form of walks or games. They can be stubborn and independent and can be aggressive towards dominant or strange dogs.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Dominating |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
While professional grooming is not required, many owners choose to have their dogs clipped at least twice each year. This is done to prevent matting of the coat. Because this breed is prone to matting, a vigorous brushing is required at least weekly. Brushing should also take place before your dog is bathed. The long beard of this breed soaks up water, food and mud. Many owners find that a daily beard brushing and wipe down is enough to prevent odors and debris from accumulating. Check your dog’s ears each week for odor and redness, trim its nails as necessary and, if you desire to do so, brush its teeth daily.
| Colors: | Black |
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | High Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Curly |
Black Russian Terrier Common Health Conditions
These dogs are relatively healthy by nature. They are prone to certain health conditions. These include allergies, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. To lessen the chance of your dog having these issues, purchase a puppy from a responsible breeder that has health testing conducted prior to breeding two adults. Look for hip and eye certification at a minimum.
Black Russian Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Black Russian terriers need a job to do. These dogs need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise each day. The breed does not bark frequently, nor does it shed regularly. This dog is in love with humans and thrives on companionship. Socialize this breed as a puppy to be sure it is accepting of strangers. A bored Black Russian terrier can become destructive. The dog is an excellent guard dog by nature. The Black Russian terrier is commonly referred to as the “Blackie”.
| Training: | Easy |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | Yes |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | Yes |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | Yes |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | Yes |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
