All Dog Breeds >>Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is large, intelligent, robust, powerful, protective, and territorial. He loves his family deeply but is aloof and distrustful toward strangers. He is a good watchdog, and doesn't usually bark unless there's a reason. He is born with an instinct to guard and protect, and he will protect your family, yard, house, and vehicle. Just his appearance alone might thwart intruders. He is confident and courageous. He will instantly become defensive in dangerous situations, but relaxes as soon as the danger passes. Because of his size, strength, and dominant nature, early obedience training is really important. He is alert and responsive and adapts well to training. This dog needs lots of human companionship, and will want to be part of the family. He will want to be with you at all times, following you from room to room and sharing your life. They love to go for rides, so you might need to get a bigger vehicle. Some BRTs want to be touching their owners at all times, just so they know they are still there. They will want to sleep with you and they love to give big, wet, sloppy kisses, especially when you are in a deep sleep. Not that you'll get much sleep because they also snore like chainsaws. They will develop behavioral problems if they get lonely. They need daily exercise and love to hike, swim and jog. They excel in obedience and agility competition.
They are excellent jumpers. They are wonderful with children and like to lick leftovers off their faces. BRTs are very gentle and quite tolerant of ear and tail pulls. Just be sure you don't let your toddlers try to ride them like a horse. Their beards get quite wet, especially if they've just had a drink. They can spray water on your walls and ceilings. And they always love to snuggle, whether or not their beards are wet. They can do well with other pets, but two unaltered males in the same household will want to dominate each other. The Black Russian Terrier is a determined, fearless, and deeply devoted dog. With proper socialization and training, he can be an excellent companion.
Character
The Black Russian Terrier is very courageous and observant. They are suspicious of strangers and possess strong protective instincts. From an early age, this breed should be trained lovingly and firmly in order to steer them in the proper direction. Black Russian Terrier puppies are sensitive, playful, and they are quick to learn and adapt. Because of their curiosity, they are apt to investigate and get into anything that appears interesting. They are enthusiastic and love playing and spending time with their families. They are excellent with children. They have an even-tempered, good-natured demeanor, and they seek intense contact with people and animals. They generally don't get into fights with other dogs, but male Black Russian Terriers shouldn't share a household with other large, dominant dogs. This breed can easily live with other pets and small animals. They are comparatively easy to housebreak and they rarely bark. Consistent family contact, good training, and proper socialization will ensure that the best qualities of this breed are brought out for all to enjoy.
Weight
80 – 143 pounds
General Health
The Black Russian Terrier is prone to hip dysplasia. Ears of this breed should be properly cared for and regularly checked to prevent the onset of otitis. This breed typically lives for 10 to 11 years. They average 6 to 12 puppies per litter.
History
Throughout the 1940s, the army-controlled kennel called "Red Star" began breeding a dog for its own needs. In order to develop a breed that suited all of their criteria, Red Star utilized a program that was created by Soviet breeder specialists. The initial goal was to produce a hardy, strong, massive dog that possessed a good work ethic and spirited personality. This dog would also have to be able to handle drastic fluctuations in climate. Select Airedale breeds, Giant Schnauzers, Rottweilers, and Russian Water Dogs were involved in the Black Russian Terrier's creation. A total of twenty different dog breeds were selectively bred to develop the breed. After several years, Russian breeders from a parliamentary organization purchased dogs from the Red Star kennel. These breeders started to standardize the appearance of the breed, while still maintaining the initial traits and personality of the breed. The Black Russian Terrier was officially recognized in May 1984 by the FCI. The breed is highly important to the Red Army.
Maintenance
The Black Russian Terrier has a weatherproof double coat that needs trimming 2 to 3 times per year. Professional grooming should be administered as necessary. If the dog's coat is soft, stripping may be required. Black Russian Terriers should be brushed on a weekly basis and stray hairs around the ear ducts and under the paws should be removed. This breed sheds very little if it is brushed frequently.
Ideal Environment
The Black Russian Terrier can live happily in a small household or apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors, and they are likely to follow their owner(s) around from place to place. This breed shouldn't be kept in a kennel because of their constant need for human affection and attention. The Black Russian Terrier loves to go for walks and romp in open spaces.
Black Russian Terrier Training
The Black Russian Terrier is intelligent and quite easy to train. He learns new commands quickly at an above average rate.