The Black Russian Terrier can be summed up in three words: bold, confident and affectionate. These courageous canines are considered to be one of the top choices among families that want a loving house pet that can also protect them with excellent guard dog abilities. In fact, Black Russian Terrier dogs need constant human interaction to keep them happy. They also make wonderful playmates with children.

A Brief History Of The Black Russian Terrier

A late member of the dog society, Black Russian Terriers originated from the Soviet Union during the 1950s. Just a decade earlier, the Russians were in a serious need to obtain working dogs to have trained for use in the military. They imported dozens of breeds from various countries to create the desired working dog.

The first generation of Black Russian Terriers were bred from Roy, an impressive Giant Schnauzer, who was bred with females from several breeds. The most successful came from crosses with the Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier, and the Moscow Water Dog. Each one was all black in color and the best of the bunch were bred amongst themselves.

By the year 1957, the second and third generations of puppies were sent to various family breeding programs. The goal now of the breeders was to keep improving the dog’s versatility as a working dog, but to also improve conformation. Black Russian Terriers were used to find wounded soldiers, pull sledges, detect explosives, and many more tasks for the military. They served in both Bosnia and Afghanistan missions.

Although a breed standard was drawn up in 1968, it wasn’t until 1984 that the international FCI recognized the breed. As more and more Black Russian Terrier breeders started to relocated to various parts of the world, the dog’s popularity took off. In 2001, the dog was recognized by the AKC as a member of the Miscellaneous class then moved to the Working Group in 2004.

Upkeep Requirements For The Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers need as much social interaction with its family members as it does physical exercise. The breed has an inherent need to work, as it’s history shows us, so daily activities are a must. To help facilitate the dog’s need for action, ongoing obedience training or agility training is recommended.
Highly affectionate and calm around the house, this breed can be trusted around small children and does not bark much. In fact, the Black Russian Terrier is one of the quietest dogs we know of today. They can live outside but it’s best to allow them to sleep indoors at night. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing twice per week and a major trim about every six to seven months.

Health Concerns

Black Russian Terrier dogs have an average life span of ten to eleven years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is CHD, with elbow dysplasia as a minor issue. Rarely seen is dwarfism and PRA. Veterinarians suggest that the breed get specifically tested for eye, hip and elbow problems.