Dog Breeds - Black Russian Terrier

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is inclined to display towards family members or individuals they are familiar with varies. Certain breeds may be distant and reserved towards everyone other than their owner, whereas other breeds treat everyone they know as if they were their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature can vary. It is crucial to always supervise dogs around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed. However, some breeds are known for being more naturally inclined towards being tolerant and patient with children making them generally more family-friendly.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and manage dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a greater natural predisposition for getting along well with other dogs, whether it be in a home or public setting.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary significantly. Breeds that shed extensively will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. They may also be more likely to trigger allergies related to pet dander. Additionally, such breeds often necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the surroundings clean and tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed in terms of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary widely. It is important to consider your available time, patience and budget for such care when choosing a breed. Regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly. If you prioritize cleanliness and are a neat freak, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the ideal choice for you. Some breeds tend to produce ropes of slobber or leave big wet spots on clothes and other surfaces. It's important to consider this aspect when selecting a breed, especially if you prefer to maintain a tidy environment.
COAT TYPE +
Double, Curly, Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Medium, Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The demeanor of different breeds towards strangers can differ significantly. Some breeds tend to be reserved or apprehensive around unfamiliar people regardless of where they are, while others are always happy to make the acquaintance of a new human.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of playfulness exhibited by a breed is likely to persist beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds display a lasting eagerness to engage in interactive games such as tug-of-war or fetch even in their adult years. These breeds tend to maintain their enthusiasm for playtime and enjoy actively participating in interactive activities with their owners. On the other hand, some breeds may prefer a more relaxed approach, being content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch alongside their owners.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a specific dog breed to notify you about the presence of unfamiliar individuals is known. These particular breeds have a higher probability of responding to perceived dangers be it a postal worker or a squirrel seen through the window. Moreover, these breeds have a tendency to become more receptive towards unknown individuals who enter their living space and are accepted by the family members.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change encompasses various aspects of day-to-day life, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. Some breeds are naturally more resilient and adaptable thriving in different environments and remaining unaffected by changes in their surroundings. These breeds tend to adjust easily to new living conditions, tolerate noise levels well, and are less sensitive to weather fluctuations. Furthermore, they exhibit flexibility when it comes to changes in daily routines and are generally unfazed by variations in their day-to-day lives. However, it's important to note that individual temperament and proper training also play significant roles in a dog's adaptability.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The simplicity of training your furry friend and their willingness to acquire new skills significantly hinges on their breed. While some breeds eagerly strive to make their owners proud others prioritize freedom opting to do as they please, whenever and wherever it suits them best.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of different dog breeds vary significantly. High-energy breeds thrive on engaging in physical activities, constantly seeking their next adventure. They eagerly indulge in running, jumping, and playing, actively throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds can be likened to couch potatoes as they find contentment in lounging around and enjoying their leisurely naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which this particular breed communicates through sounds, such as barks or howls, varies. While certain breeds tend to bark at anyone passing by or even a bird appearing outside the window, others only vocalize in specific circumstances. It is worth noting that even barkless breeds can still express themselves through alternative sound forms.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation necessary for a breed to remain happy and healthy varies greatly. Purpose-bred dogs, designed for specific tasks, often require adequate mental exercise involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive challenges. Without sufficient brain activity, these dogs may resort to creating their own stimulating projects, which might not align with the owner's preferences or desires. Therefore, it is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental stimulation to prevent undesirable behaviors and promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is inclined to display towards family members or individuals they are familiar with varies. Certain breeds may be distant and reserved towards everyone other than their owner, whereas other breeds treat everyone they know as if they were their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The degree of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature can vary. It is crucial to always supervise dogs around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed. However, some breeds are known for being more naturally inclined towards being tolerant and patient with children making them generally more family-friendly.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and manage dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a greater natural predisposition for getting along well with other dogs, whether it be in a home or public setting.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary significantly. Breeds that shed extensively will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. They may also be more likely to trigger allergies related to pet dander. Additionally, such breeds often necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the surroundings clean and tidy.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a breed in terms of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary widely. It is important to consider your available time, patience and budget for such care when choosing a breed. Regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly. If you prioritize cleanliness and are a neat freak, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the ideal choice for you. Some breeds tend to produce ropes of slobber or leave big wet spots on clothes and other surfaces. It's important to consider this aspect when selecting a breed, especially if you prefer to maintain a tidy environment.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double, Curly, Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium, Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The demeanor of different breeds towards strangers can differ significantly. Some breeds tend to be reserved or apprehensive around unfamiliar people regardless of where they are, while others are always happy to make the acquaintance of a new human.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of playfulness exhibited by a breed is likely to persist beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds display a lasting eagerness to engage in interactive games such as tug-of-war or fetch even in their adult years. These breeds tend to maintain their enthusiasm for playtime and enjoy actively participating in interactive activities with their owners. On the other hand, some breeds may prefer a more relaxed approach, being content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch alongside their owners.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The inclination of a specific dog breed to notify you about the presence of unfamiliar individuals is known. These particular breeds have a higher probability of responding to perceived dangers be it a postal worker or a squirrel seen through the window. Moreover, these breeds have a tendency to become more receptive towards unknown individuals who enter their living space and are accepted by the family members.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change encompasses various aspects of day-to-day life, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. Some breeds are naturally more resilient and adaptable thriving in different environments and remaining unaffected by changes in their surroundings. These breeds tend to adjust easily to new living conditions, tolerate noise levels well, and are less sensitive to weather fluctuations. Furthermore, they exhibit flexibility when it comes to changes in daily routines and are generally unfazed by variations in their day-to-day lives. However, it's important to note that individual temperament and proper training also play significant roles in a dog's adaptability.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The simplicity of training your furry friend and their willingness to acquire new skills significantly hinges on their breed. While some breeds eagerly strive to make their owners proud others prioritize freedom opting to do as they please, whenever and wherever it suits them best.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of different dog breeds vary significantly. High-energy breeds thrive on engaging in physical activities, constantly seeking their next adventure. They eagerly indulge in running, jumping, and playing, actively throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds can be likened to couch potatoes as they find contentment in lounging around and enjoying their leisurely naps.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation necessary for a breed to remain happy and healthy varies greatly. Purpose-bred dogs, designed for specific tasks, often require adequate mental exercise involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive challenges. Without sufficient brain activity, these dogs may resort to creating their own stimulating projects, which might not align with the owner's preferences or desires. Therefore, it is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental stimulation to prevent undesirable behaviors and promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Salt & Pepper	167
Black & Tan	018
Sable	164
Blue	037

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Saddle Pattern	131

About The Breed

The Black Russian Terrier is an impressive breed, characterized by its large size, immense power, and robust build. With a heavy bone structure and a coarse all-black coat, they possess an imposing and majestic appearance. These dogs are renowned for their courage, confidence, and intelligence. Bred specifically for guarding and protective duties, they naturally maintain a certain aloofness towards strangers. Descriptors like 'imposing,' 'massive,' or 'majestic' aptly capture their presence, but they can also be simply described as 'big.' This brawny guard dog originating from the Siberian steppes can weigh up to 140 pounds and reach heights of 30 inches at the shoulder even taller when considering their sizable brick-shaped heads. Their tousled, all-black coat provides ample warmth allowing them to patrol even the coldest habitable regions on Earth. Remarkably, despite their size, they display nimble-footedness justifying the expression 'He moves well for a big guy.'

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BLACK RUSSIAN TERRIER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Black Russian Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Black Russian Terrier is known to be generally healthy and a reputable breeder will prioritize screening their breeding stock for various health conditions. These conditions can include allergies, urinary tract stones, hip and elbow dysplasia as well as progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is advisable to regularly check the ears of a Black Russian Terrier and ensure that their teeth are brushed on a consistent basis, as with any dog breed. These measures contribute to the overall well-being and health of the Black Russian Terrier. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP) - DNA Test Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Black Russian Terrier boasts a tousled double coat consisting of a thick, soft undercoat and a coarse, protective outer coat. It requires regular maintenance to prevent matting, which involves thorough brushing at least once or twice a week. The owner should also become skilled in scissoring around the face, paying attention to the beard and mustache to ensure the dog's optimal appearance. Alternatively, they can rely on the expertise of a professional groomer for these tasks. While a trim using clippers every few months can be performed by a groomer many owners choose to learn how to do it themselves. It is important to note that like all breeds regular nail trimming is recommended for the Black Russian Terrier's paw care.

Exercise

	The Black Russian Terrier requires a minimum of 30 to 40 minutes of daily exercise to maintain its well-being. This breed enthusiastically participates in various activities alongside its owner, including brisk walks, long runs, bike rides, swims, and engaging hikes. In a backyard setting playing with a ball or a flying disc can also provide entertainment and exercise. It is crucial to fulfill their exercise needs, as a Black Russian Terrier lacking sufficient physical activity may become unhappy and exhibit destructive behaviors. Additionally, it is important for them to spend quality time with their human family to prevent the development of aggressive tendencies. Many Black Russian Terriers excel in canine sports such as obedience, agility, rally, and Schutzhund (protection) competitions, showcasing their versatility and intelligence.

Training

	It is essential for potential owners to consider their ability and willingness to train and handle a powerful and strong-willed breed like the Black Russian Terrier. Socialization should commence during puppyhood and be maintained throughout the dog's life to help prevent aggressive behavior. Obedience training is also crucial and should be initiated as early as possible extending well into adulthood. Black Russian Terriers have dominant tendencies and may become pushy towards anyone they perceive as vulnerable. Training must be conducted with firmness and consistency, but it should always be reward-based rather than punishment-based. The intelligence of the Black Russian Terrier enables them to quickly learn, but it is important to treat them with kindness and respect, as this contributes to their responsiveness and overall positive training experience.

Nutrition

	The Black Russian Terrier typically thrives on a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with proper supervision and approval from a veterinarian. It is important to ensure that the diet is suitable for the dog's specific age group, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. Some Black Russian Terriers are prone to weight gain, so it is crucial to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight. While treats can be useful for training purposes, it is important to avoid excessive indulgence to prevent obesity. It is recommended to familiarize oneself with safe human foods for dogs and those that should be avoided. If there are any concerns regarding the dog's weight or diet, consulting with a vet is advisable. Finally, it is essential to provide clean, fresh water that is accessible to the Black Russian Terrier at all times.

Historiography

In the 1930s, the Red Star Kennel, located near Moscow in a secret location, was established by the Soviet government with the mission of creating a powerful and versatile working dog for the Russian army. The project faced numerous challenges, including the loss of purebred dogs during the Russian Revolution, World Wars, and economic hardships. These adversities severely impacted the quality breeding stock in Russia making it difficult to import dogs from Europe due to war and economic depression.

To rebuild their breeding program, the Red Star team incorporated a combination of 17 different breeds, including Giant Schnauzers, Airedale Terriers, and Rottweilers, with a touch of Newfoundland to improve temperament. Following World War II, they received quality breeding stock from Germany as spoils of war, which further enhanced their program. The outcome of their efforts was the Black Russian Terrier (BRT), a versatile and tireless fence dog capable of patrolling vast borders, strong enough to apprehend prisoners in Stalin's prisons and possessing a thick coat suitable for Siberian conditions.

Initially deployed at border crossings, remote prisons, and military installations, the number of BRTs needed decreased by the mid-1950s due to the closure of Stalin-era prison camps. Excess litters were then sold to hobby breeders and exhibitors, while retired officers reintroduced BRTs to civilian life, gaining popularity among the Russian people. They affectionately nicknamed these loyal guardians the "Black Pearl of Russia" or simply "Blackie."

In 1981, the Black Russian Terrier was officially recognized as a breed by the Soviet Ministry of Agriculture. It was later admitted to the AKC Stud Book in 2004. Today, BRTs are commonly found guarding suburban properties rather than political prisoners reflecting their successful transition into companion and family guardian roles.