Group: Working/Terrier
Weight: 80 � 143 pounds
Height: 25 � 29 inches
Life Expectancy: Around 10 � 11 years
Size of Litters: Average 6 � 12 puppies
History The origin of the Black Russian Terrier is quite unique. The government of the Soviet Union in the 1940�s developed this breed as a working dog for military, police and guard dog purposes. It was bred and raised exclusively at the state-owned Red Star Kennel in the USSR until 1957. Foundation stock included the Rottweiler, Newfoundland, Giant Schnauzer, Moscow Water Dog and Airedale Terrier. The Red Army�s goal was to develop a general-purpose guard dog that could withstand the harsh Russian climate. Once the Black Russian Terrier moved into the hands of civilian breeders in the late 1950�s, it began to resemble the breed as we know it today. Black Russian Terriers are considered rare dogs outside their native Russia. The AKC first recognized the breed in 2004.
Characteristics
The Black Russian Terrier is a large, imposing dog with a signature black coat. Its head is block-shaped, with a distinct beard, moustache and eyebrows. The coat is coarse, medium in length and a few gray hairs may be interspersed with the black. This dog�s tail is held high above the back and is usually cropped.
Temperament
With its rich history as a military dog, the Black Russian Terrier is confident, brave and loyal. It does have a tendency to be dominant and can become aggressive without proper training and socialization, so this dog does best under an experienced handler or guardian. Like many other breeds developed as guard dogs, the Black Russian Terrier is wary around strangers. Extensive socialization as a young pup is important in order to avoid unwanted aggression. This breed tends to form a deep, extremely loyal attachment to its family. It also usually gets along quite well with children.
Care
The Black Russian Terrier�s trademark wiry terrier coat does not shed, but does definitely require professional grooming. Haircuts should be scheduled at least 2 or 3 times per year. Like other terriers, the excess hair in the ear canal should be removed regularly in order to prevent infection. The hair on the bottom of the paws, between toe pads, should be trimmed often so the dog does not slip and injure itself. This dog should be brushed at least once a week in order to avoid matting, which can become painful if mats form too close to the skin. For more detailed info, take a look at the Black Russian Terrier Grooming page.
Training
With its roots firmly in the working dog camp, the Black Russian Terrier is happiest when given a job to do. It responds very well to consistent, firm training. Training is absolutely crucial for any Black Russian Terrier. This breed is simply too massive to get away without being trained. Training should begin as early as possible so that the handler�s dominance and position of authority can be firmly established. Make sure and give your Black Russian Terrier ample opportunity for exercise as it could become hyperactive and destructive when bored. This breed often enjoys participating in canine sports such as competitive obedience, Schutzhund training and agility.