Is the Black Russian Terrier right for you?
- 1Black Russian Terriers are most known for their intelligence and strength.
- 2They prefer to be kept busy with activities or tasks and should not be left alone.
- 3Black Russian puppies respond to firm training and excel at obedience competitions.
HISTORY
The Black Russian Terrier was first bred by the Russian Military, who were trying to create the ideal working/warrior dog; a dog that would work continuously, even in the harsh conditions of Russia. Bred from the Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier, and more, the Black Russian Terrier was the product of especially selective breeding, yielding one of the best all around working dogs on the planet. They were first recognized by the AKC in 2004.
Quick Facts
Size
Extra Large
Lifespan
10 or 15 years
Hair Length
Long
Male Height
25-29 inches
Male Weight
80-143 pounds
Female Height
25-28 inches
Female Weight
80-143 pounds
Litter Size
6 and 12 puppies
Personality
The Black Russian Terrier is an exceptional working breed. They are calm, brave, loyal, hard working, and stoic. Their innate characteristics include guarding, protecting, and wanting to assist in any way possible. As puppies, they are very curious and will endlessly explore. They are great with families and children, craving human contact and being the very model of the gentle giant, unless called upon to protect. They get along well with other animals and small dogs, but may get into power struggles with other large dogs unless they are both unquestionably subservient to their owner. .
Color
The Black Russian Terrier is typically black, or black with some specks of gray. For show dogs, if there is gray, it should be evenly distributed, not patches of gray.
Health Concerns
Though a breed that has a long lifespan, the Black Russian Terrier is found to be susceptible to hereditary ailments like:
- hip dysplasia
- progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- elbow dysplasia
Appearance
Black Russian Terriers are large, sturdily built, powerful dogs. They have a boxy head that is covered in long, straight fur, like their Schnauzer relatives. They have small, triangular ears that hang down by the side of their head. Their fur is thick and wavy, longer on their head, frequently growing in like bangs that end up obscuring their eyes. They also have massive paws.
