When you see a Black Russian Terrier for the first time, you’ll think that he’s covered in a blanket which is his big fur.
These elegant black beauties are confident and clever guard dogs who aren’t pure terriers.
They are people-oriented dogs that will go where the action is present. Keep reading to learn more about this magnificent breed.
About The Breed
The Black Russian Terrier dogs were initially bred to be guard dogs. They develop their protective instincts once they grow a year old.
This gorgeous black beauty is a combination of power, agility, size, and intelligence. These dogs love their humans and want to be on their side all the time, making them perfect pets for families.
These dogs will crave your love and attention, so make sure you give them.
They are working-class dogs that are quite easy to train and respond well to consistent training. They give respect to their owners and expect the same in return.
Their smartness can scare you sometimes. If you can’t tolerate a pet being smarter than you, then the Black Russian Terrier is not the one for you.
These dogs have a history of working with the police and the military. Contrary to their size, these dogs don’t mature early. You’ll see them perform actively more outside than inside.
Often people get kennels for their pets, but the Black Russian Terrier is not one of those pets that’ll live in a kennel.
These dogs are people-oriented and want their humans by their side. When they see someone strange in their house, they’ll first make sure of the stranger’s behavior and then accept them.
However, once they sense any danger, there’s nothing that can stop them from protecting their family.
Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed History
The Soviet Army Scientists were behind the breeding of the Black Russian Terrier to get an excellent working dog.
These dogs adapt to the shivering winters of Russia as their breeding is done to patrol with the soldiers on the border.
The scientists didn’t want a whole new breed; they just needed a dog who could fulfill their military requirements.
Their breeding took place in the Red Star Kennel. This was established under the Red Army and had full government resources for help.
Purebred dog breeding was put to a stop during the Russian Revolution, economic problems, and World War II. Geneticists and breeders didn’t have enough homebred stock for breeding work.
However, they did great work. They needed a dog with stamina who could chase and catch intruders, run long fence lines, and survive the harsh weather.
The crossing of Rottweilers, Giant Schnauzers, and Airedales was done, but 17 breeds were crossed, including the Great Dane and some huge Russian breeds like the Ovcharka.
Also goes by the pet name Blackies, these dogs worked at prisons, rail crossings, and military venues, and they were good at their job.
Military venues like the gulags started closing during the 1950s as there were more than enough dogs, and the Army started selling these puppies to the general public.
The first breed standard for these dogs was created by the Soviet Army in 1958.
Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Black Russian Terrier |
| Other Name | Black Pearls of Russia |
| Dog Breed Type | Working dogs |
| Origin | Russia |
| Parent Breeds | Rottweilers, Airedales, Giant Schnauzers |
| Height | 26-28 inches |
| Weight | 80-140 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 10-11 years |
| Coat Type | Tousled double coat |
| Common Colors | Black, Tan, Salt and pepper |
| Grooming Needs | Medium |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Temperament | Stable, Energetic, Confident, Lively, Brave, Hardy |
| Apartment Living | Suitable for apartment living |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes |
| Health Concerns | Dwarfism, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | Low to medium |
| Trainability | High |
| Energy Level | High |
| Activity | Active |
| Litter Size | 6-12 puppies |
What To Know
• They’re large, black, and possess a distinctive, wavy coat.
• BRTs are loyal, and protective, and need proper socialization and training.
• Regular exercise is essential to maintain their physical and mental health.
• Their double coat requires frequent brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting.
Characteristics
Adaptability
The Black Russian Terrier (BRT) is a dog with remarkable adaptability. Originally bred for military service, They are highly flexible and adaptable to a variety of roles and environments.
They’re equally comfortable in a city-based apartment or a farm in the countryside. Their protective nature makes them ideal family members, and their intelligence and training capabilities make them a top performer in many different tasks, from the obedience level to agility.
BRTs can adapt well to different lifestyles, which makes them dependable and flexible canine companions.
Adaptability
Adaptive to Apartment Living
Suitable for New Owners
Sensitivity Scale
Comfortable Being Alone
Comfortable with Cold Weather
Comfortable with Hot Weather
Friendliness
The Black Russian Terrier is a large fluffy dog that’s just as welcoming as a giant Teddy bear! The furry companions are a joy to be around and make great playmates.
They are gentle and are well-known for their devotion. They are the most wonderful companions you could find, always ready to cuddle and share a hug.
If you’re looking for a loving and affectionate dog and you’re looking for a dog that’s friendly and loving, the Black Russian Terrier is your perfect companion!
All About Friendliness
Lovable with Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Frank with strangers
Personality
The Black Russian Terrier dogs are confident, brave, and serene. They radiate tranquility and confidence thanks to their stable nervous systems.
As the military did their breeding, you can expect them to have an alert, self-confident, and loyal personality.
If these dogs didn’t have emotional stability, no one knows how dangerous they could become.
These dogs are highly intelligent, and that’s why it becomes so effortless to train them. Firm and consistent training is the best form of training for these dogs.
The earlier you start their training, the easier it becomes to get them on their best behavior. The Black Russian Terrier is fond of children and will even protect their friends.
The Black Russian Terrier wants to be a part of the family, so make sure you make them feel like it. Backyard life doesn’t suit these dogs.
You should give blackies attention and care all the time if you want them as your pet.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
Black Russian Terrier is an enormous, fluffy bear that loves children! They’re kind, patient, and always ready for time to play.
They’re a joy to play with. BRT will be your child’s best friend However, it’s crucial to teach your children to treat them gently and respectfully. With the right training and supervision, they can become great family pets.
Amicable to Other Pets
Black Russian Terriers aren’t only friendly with humans, they’re also very sociable with pets of other breeds.
If you have cats rabbits, or any other dog and cats, your BRT can easily make friends.
However early training and socialization can ensure that they are comfortable with their furry friends. Don’t be shocked when your BRT becomes the peacekeeper for your pet’s family!
Barking Tendencies
While Black Russian Terriers aren’t renowned for their excessive barking they can alert you to strangers or strange sounds.
This is their method of saying, “Hey, something’s going on!” With a little practice and positive reinforcement, you’ll be able to reduce their barking behaviors.
Learning when it’s time for them to stop is essential to maintain peace within your home.
Possibilities of Staying Alone
These dogs are extremely loving, and they are incredibly affectionate with their families.
However, they can also handle some time on their own if you have to get to work or make around.
With the right training, they will be able to feel at ease with being at home for a couple of hours.
Make sure that they’re provided with toys and a comfy place to unwind. Be sure to tell them that they’ll be thrilled to meet you when you return!
Pros And Cons Of The Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed
Pros
- Friendly and protective family companion.
- Low-shedding coat, suitable for allergy sufferers.
- Excellent watchdog and guard dog.
Cons
- Requires consistent grooming due to their coat.
- Needs early socialization to prevent aggressive tendencies.
- May be too strong-willed for novice owners.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
There’s no noticeable difference in the attitude of male and female dogs of this breed.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Black Russian Terrier is a large, furry, and strong dog with a powerful and confident presence.
Their black, thick coat is both gorgeous and secure, while their dark eyes are affectionate and expressive.
The breed is known for its strong build, with a bouncy tail that can be seen wagging happily.
Their sturdy paws provide them with stability and make them excellent playmates. They are affectionate and loving and make great pets for families that love lively, affectionate dogs.
Coat Color
The most common color of the Black Russian Terrier is black, of course. You might see variations of black color in different dogs.
These dogs have moderate grooming needs as they have a double coat. Brush their coat weekly to avoid matting. Use a stripping comb, an undercoat rake, and a slicker brush for this.
Shedding
The Black Russian Terrier doesn’t shed that much though you might notice little lumps of hair unless you brush them from time to time.
Size
The Black Russian Terrier is a huge and powerful breed. You will get scared if you see a full-grown Black Russian Terrier for the first time.
These dogs grow tall, between 26-29 inches. They don’t even need to bark, and their size is enough to scare anyone away. Now, you can go on your night walks with your pet.
Health
Generally, the Black Russian Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are some health issues associated with them you need to know about.
- Allergies
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hip Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Health And Grooming Requirements
Shedding Quantity
Drooling Capability
Effortless to Groom
Overall Health
Capable of Gaining Weight
Size
Maintenance And Care
Never keep your blackie alone in the backyard while you chill inside the house. They will keep waiting for you to play with them or until you let them in.
These dogs are hungry for human contact, and if you can’t provide them with this, you probably shouldn’t get them as your pet.
They are the happiest when they get to spend time with their humans. When you have to do some work, give them toys like the Buster Cubes to keep your pet busy.
These dogs adapt well to apartment living as long as they get enough mental and physical stimulation.
You can get a crate for your dog so they can sleep separately, not keep them locked in there all day. Maintain your pet’s dental and nail hygiene to keep them well-groomed and healthy.
Grooming
The process of grooming your Black Russian Terrier is like having a spa day for them! Brush their black, thick fur frequently to keep it looking shiny and free of tangles.
Make sure to wash their hairy ears, and cut their nails as well. Bath time is essential but not too often.
Once every month is generally enough. Encourage your children to be patient and gentle because it’s a bonding moment.
Your pet will enjoy the attention and will look stunning by regularly grooming!
Food And Nutrition
The dietary requirements of the Black Russian Terrier are unique, just like every dog breed. Their feeding needs depend on a lot of factors like age, size, and health, among many others.
As these dogs grow, their dietary needs change. That’s why before feeding your dog anything you like or see on the internet, you should consult your vet first.
They will do a proper analysis of your dog’s unique needs and then make a diet plan accordingly.
Exercise And Activity Level
If you’ve convinced yourself to get the Black Russian Terrier as your pet, then prepare yourself to devote at least half an hour of your time to your pet’s daily exercise.
These dogs need mental stimulation along with physical stimulation. Letting your dog play alone in the backyard doesn’t count as exercise.
Physical Requirements
Energy range
Intensity
Exercise Requirements
Capable for Playfulness
Trainability
The Black Russian Terrier is an intelligent and trainable dog! Similar to how children learn in the classroom, these canines are always eager to learn new tricks.
With perseverance and positive reinforcement, they will master commands such as sit or stay, as well as fetch.
Keep training fun by providing treats and time to play to make them more well-behaved and a happy pet.
These large fluffy dogs are always eager to please and are great pets for families looking for an able and trustworthy furry companion.
Trainability
Effortless to Train
Smartness
Capable for Mouthiness
Tendency to Attack Prey
Urge to Howl or Bark
Wanderlust Ability
Children and other pets
The Black Russian Terriers are friendly dogs that bond well with other pets and children. They will protect everyone in their group. Early socialization helps to maintain this behavior positively.
Conclusion
Creating the Black Russian Terrier was a challenge back then, and as many as 17 breeds were used for this purpose.
The Black Russian Terrier is a fantastic breed of dog recognized for its loyalty and strength. In the end, they make excellent family pets and are great guardians.
They require exercise, love, and proper care to be healthy and happy. If you’re looking for a loyal and secure pet look into the possibility of a Black Russian Terrier!
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FAQs On Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed…
Where do the Black Russian Terrier dog breeds come from?
Black Russian Terriers originate from the former Soviet Union. Bred in the mid-20th century, they were created for military and police work.
What is the best diet routine for a Black Russian Terrier?
This energetic breed should be given a nutritional diet.
How much exercise is required for a Black Russian Terrier?
At least half an hour daily
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.