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Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier was developed in the former USSR by the state for use as a military/working dogs. The breeding stock was largely imported from the occupied countries, especially East Germany. Dog breeds used in the development include the Airedale Terrier, Caucasian Ovcharka, Newfoundland, Giant and Standard Schnauzers and the now extinct Moscow Water Dog. This breed was primarily bred for working abilities, rather the appearance and it has been recently that the conformation of the breed has been refined. In 2004, the Black Russian Terrier was officially recognized as a breed by the AKC.

Black Russian Terrier Temperament

The BRT is a high energy dog that needs a confident owner, so they are not recommended as a pet for the first time dog owner. They get along well with older children, but are not recommended for smaller children due to their size. These dogs are very intelligent and easily trained, they do very well in such dog sports as obedience and Schutzhund. BRT's are very high energy and need a lot of exercise so as not to become destructive when bored. They make excellent watchdogs due to their working background. BRT's are a low shedding breed so they are a good choice for people with allergies to dogs. BRT's tend to be good with other household pets, but can show aggression to same sex dogs and other small animals.

Black Russian Terrier Appearance

BRT's are a very large dog and usually weigh between 80 to 145 pounds and stand 26 to 30 inches at the withers. Their coats are dense, wiry and must always be black.

Black Russian Terrier Grooming

BRT's are a low shedding breed, so they need trips to a professional groomer every few months to get their coat shaved down. Other than that, a good brushing once a week will keep this dog looking good.

Black Russian Terrier Life Expectancy and Health Problems

BRT's are a generally a robust breed that has few health concerns. The most common are elbow and hip displaysia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy. They are a long lived breed for their size and have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years.

Black Russian Terrier Pros and Cons

This simplified list may help you decide if a Black Russian Terrier may be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Do You Want

• a very big dog?
• a dog that is bred to specifically a working dog?
• a good watchdog?
• a high energy dog?
• a hypoallergenic dog?
• a rare breed dog?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog that requires a lot of exercise?
• a very large, powerful dog?
• a dog that can become destructive when bored?
• a dog that needs a confident owner
• a dog that can be aggressive towards other dogs?
• a dog that was bred specifically to be a working dog

Useful Black Russian Terrier Links

Black Russian Terrier Club UK

Black Russian Terrier Club of America