Black Russian Terriers
Black Russian Terriers, also known as Tchiorny Terrier, or Stalin's dog, are classified under the working dog group of the AKC, not the Terrier group. The reason is most likely due to the fact that several unrelated blood lines were involved in the BRT's development resulting in the "terrier" DNA at significantly less than a hundred percent,
Courtesy CarlyleshlWhile terriers are a popular group of dogs consisting of many specific breeds, some
people have never heard of Black Russian Terriers.
This type of terrier was first developed more than 70 years ago in Russia’s military
kennel known as Red Star.
There, breeders were able to produce a unique type of dog, one that had many of the
same characteristics of other terriers but on a larger scale physically. As a
result, a dog was developed to be a dedicated workhorse capable of handling the
harsh climate of Russia.
This breed is sometimes referred to as a Russian Black Terrier and was first developed
back in the 1940s, though it was not until the 1950s when imperfections
were bred out.
For years, this dog was used solely by the Russian military
but with public interest, breeding tactics changed to where the Black Russian Terrier of today is
not only a working dog with great agility but also a breed with a stately body,
gorgeous coat, and amazing personality.
Living With Black Russian Terriers
As seen in most terrier breeds, the Black Russian is brave and sometimes overly
protective of its owner and other family members, although also calm. Interestingly,
while still a puppy, this dog is actually more on the shy, sensitive side but with
age, a delightful personality emerges.
Because this terrier breed is naturally curious, special attention should be given to indoor
and outdoor spaces to keep the dog safe.
Often, Black Russian Terriers are quite clingy. Because of this, a lot more emphasis should be
geared toward socialization of the breed to prevent the animal from becoming anxious
and hyperactive.
Overall, Black Russians are extremely smart and due to their agility,
they are sometimes used in sporting events. With a good deal of playful energy and great
need for attention, obedience training is mandatory while young.
Courtesy: Laslovarga
Physical Stats And Coat Care
Just as the name implies, this particular breed of terrier is 100% black. However,
if a person were interested in showing or professionally breeding a Black Russian,
the American Kennel Club does allow for small gray markings.
As far as height, males reach 27 to 30 inches around 18 months of age while females are between 26 and
29 inches to the withers. Average weight is from 80 to 145 pounds with females
being on the lower end of the scale. When properly cared for, this breed lives to
approximately 11 years old.
One advantage of Black Russian Terriers over other groups and terrier breeds is that
the coat does not shed. However, this breed does need to be thoroughly brushed several times a
week and trimmed with clippers three or four times a year.
All dogs accumulate dead hair especially if they don't shed. Using a grooming tool such as the FurMinator is a good way to remove the dead hair that doesn't fall out on its own.
The coat is hard, wiry, and weatherproof with growth being longer around the neck, giving the appearance of a
lion’s mane. This type of terrier also has thick eyebrows and a distinctive beard.
Health Notes
While the Black Russian Terriers are overall a healthy breed, the primary health concern is dysplasia, which can affect the hips and/or elbows.
Reputable breeders have both parents evaluated as a way of detecting this and other bone diseases, but some do not. Other tests recommended by the breed club include:
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- DNA test for JLPP (Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy)
Something to keep in mind when meeting with breeders about obtaining a puppy.
Additionally, this breed of dog is prone to otitis, otherwise known as ear infections so regular
cleaning and removal of excess hair would be essential.
How Active Is This Breed?
As mentioned, this type of terrier has an above average amount of energy and needs to be taken on significant walks, runs, hikes or swimming or he will develop bad behaviors.
Playtime in the back yard, agility classes or other competitive canine sports would be just a good outlet for abilities and energy.
Socialization at a local dog park would also be an ideal way to provide some of both.
Ideal Living Space
Most people think this breed needs to be outside because of size but in truth the
Black Russian is quite calm when kept inside. In reality, this type of dog makes an
excellent choice for homeowners, as well as apartment dwellers although adequate
space to move around and play would be appropriate.
One important note, due to the
need for human interaction, keeping Black Russian Terriers outdoors full-time is not
recommended.
In fact, this dog should never be kenneled outdoors to prevent it becoming overly protective or possessive of the confined space, even against the beloved owner.
How Are Black Russian Terriers With Children?
Without doubt, these terriers are excellent around children of all ages
although supervision should be provided around younger ones simply because of the
dog’s large size.
With complete obedience training, this breed offers protection
to all family members, without being overly protective.
In addition, because this is an extremely intelligence dog, commands and tricks taught by children are learned quickly.
Seniors or Less Active
There is no reason senior people cannot own Black Russian Terriers provided they
have the experience to handle a strong and powerful dog. That being said, they can and
have been trained for therapy situations.
While this breed of dog is gentle, calm, and very loving, a considerable degree of exercise
would be needed.
Even though this dog is friendly toward other animals, in most cases, a confident handler is always recommended during walks.
Book Recommendation
Factual and concise information about this rare breed including history, characteristics, puppy selection, feeding, training, grooming, health care and behavior. Also has advice about preparing for a puppy, house training and potential puppy problems. Many color photos.
Photo by Carlyleshl: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lari_at_the_bridge.png
License: creativecommons.org CC BY-SA
Photo by Laslovarga: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:6Tchiorny_Terrier.JPG
License: creativecommons.org CC BY-SA
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