The Black Russian Terrier is an alert, lively, wary of strangers large dog with an active defense reaction that has natural guarding insticts.  The BRT is brave and self-confident, but never aggressive. In Russia, no BRT assault on man was ever registered. Black Russian Terriers adjust easily to different climates. Tails are customarily docked. Their coat is weatherproof with dense undercoat. The ears, skull, cheeks, underside of tail, buttocks and rear of stifle are closely trimmed. The character and origins of this breed are much more similar to those of Giant Schnauzer. Excellent working qualities, highly balanced temperament and friendliness to children have contributed to the ever-increasing popularity of this breed. The Black Russian Terrier must be socialized to people and animals from puppyhood. This is a house dog and it does not do well in a kennel.
Photo courtesy of Tycron Black Russian Terriers - homepage.ntlworld.com/allenlemon
Black Russian Terrier Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Russia |
| FCI Classification: |
Pinscher and Schnauzer – Molossoid breeds - Swiss Mountain and
Cattle Dogs and other breeds. Without working trial. |
| AKC Classification: |
Working Group |
| Personality: | Very energetic, hardy, well-balanced, affectionate, loyal, with natural guarding instincts. |
| Size Category: | Large |
| Height: | 26-30 inches at shoulders (AKC standard),
25.0 – 28.1 inches at shoulders (FCI standard) |
| Colors: | Black or black with grey hairs. Brown or grey shadings, small white spot on chest are considered faults. |
| Other Names: | Black Terrier (Tchiorny Terrier - official FCI name), Russkiy Tchiorny Terrier |
| Average Litter Size: | 5 |
| Life Span: | 12-15 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
As this dog molts slightly, it is essential that it receives regular grooming. At the minimum, the BRT requires brushing three times a week with a slicker brush to keep the coat mat-free. Comb thoroughly with wide-toothed comb. Regular trimming is obligatory. Ears need to be checked regularly. Eyes need to be cleaned on a daily basis to prevent infections. The underside of the paws should be free from knots. |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: |
Gets on well with other animals. |
| Suitability for Children: | Friendly to children. |
| Exercise Needs: | High. He does need exercise, so a fenced yard or a long daily walk on a leash must be provided. |
| Train Ability: | The Black Russian Terrier is very easily trained and is excellent in obedience training. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | The Black Russian Terrier is a very hardy breed which adapts easily to different climates. The breed has a tendency for hip and elbow dysplasia, aortic stenosis, cystinuria and hypothyroidism. Responsible Black Russian Terrier breeders will screen their dogs for these and some other inherited diseases. |
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