Black Russian Terrier

By LifeLearn

"Army Dog Turned Family Friend"

Photo of Black Russian Terrier

History

The Black Russian Terrier's roots date back to the 1930s, when the Soviet Union's military kennel began to develop an indigenous breed for use as military and police dogs. Eventually, 17 breeds including the Rottweiler, Giant Schnauzer, Newfoundland and Airedale Terrier were used to develop a large dog who could endure the harsh USSR winters and perform a wide variety of tasks. For more than 20 years, the kennel worked to perfect the breed. Once the kennel was able to produce a consistent type in the mid-1950's, puppies were sold to private breeders. In the 1980s, the breed began appearing in the United States. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed as a member of the Working Group in 2004. In 2006, the Black Russian Terrier ranked 134th among the 154 breeds registered to the American Kennel Club.

Temperament

The Black Russian Terrier is a courageous and confident dog who tends to be aloof with strangers but utterly devoted to his people. He'll express that devotion in the form of protectiveness; this breed was, after all, developed for military, law-enforcement and guarding purposes. To reach his full potential, he needs consistent guidance and direction from his equally confident owner.

Appearance

The Black Russian Terrier is quite large, ranging from 26 to 28 inches in height at the shoulder. His coat should be black, although a few gray hairs are considered OK by breed purists. The coat should be hard, dense and no more than 4 inches long. A beard and bushy eyebrows frame the face. The ears drop rather than stand upright.

Training

As is the case with many large, guarding breeds, the Black Russian Terrier requires early training and socialization to ensure that his protective tendencies don't get out of hand. Training should be firm, consistent and positive. Those who want to go beyond the basics with their dogs will find that this breed is intelligent, good at problem-solving, and sufficiently versatile to excel in conformation, agility, obedience, tracking, herding, carting, search-and-rescue and military sports such as Schutzhund.

Grooming & Care

This breed's striking good looks require some maintenance on the part of the owner. Brushing and combing need to be performed regularly – at least once a week – and trimming by a professional groomer should occur every six to eight weeks. Weekly pedicures, ear cleanings – which can help ward off infections in those drop ears – and periodic baths will help keep this dog looking and feeling his best.

Health Concerns

Like all purebred dogs, Black Russian Terriers have their share of health issues. The most common are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Dogs intended for breeding should receive OFA and CERF clearances before being bred. Prospective buyers should ask to see these clearances before buying a dog or puppy.

Famous Black Russian Terrier

Before being recognized by the AKC, names like Ole Kassandra Layk and Germiona Bars were cleaning up in Russia and Europe.

Ideal Owner
Activity Level Moderate
Schedule Part-time or willing to hire a dog walker
Personal Style Affectionate, Confident
Training Style Consistent, Firm, Positive
Home Fenced yard or access to one
Children Older kids
Experience Definitely preferred
Quick Facts
Size Large
Grooming Consider a professional groomer
Exercise High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play
Training Can be stubborn, Early socialization is very important
Temperament Alert, Energetic, Protective
Challenges Can be aggressive if not well socialized
Height 26 to 29 inches
Weight 80 to 145 pounds
Life 10 to 12 years
Home Alone Fine as a trained adult
With Kids Fine if raised with them
With Strangers Protective
Availability Rare and may have a waiting list
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