Dog Breeds > Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier

Having a giant dog inside your house is a rewarding experience. Not only you are going to have a nice and ferocious pet but you are also going to have a devoted and playful companion. The Black Russian Terrier is huge dog that would definitely gather the attention of your friends and loved ones.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Black Russian Terrier was developed in 1940’s by the “Red Star”, a Russian Army controlled kennel organization. There are approximately 20 breeds involved in the creation of this enormous dog. Some of the breeds used are the Rottweilers, Giant Schnauser and the Russian Water dog. This breed got the qualities of the German shepherd sans the aggressive demeanor.

Physical Appearance

The Black Russian Terrier measures and weighs about 25 – 29 inches and 80 -143 pounds respectively. When standing, it could embrace or tackle a full-grown man. The block-sized head is strong with thick skull. The muzzle is square-shaped and decorated with thick and long black mustache. The large black nose has wide nostrils. The ears are triangular in shape and are hanging down on both sides of the head.

The enormous feet have bear-like shape have black nails and rough pads. The legs are strong and muscular. The body is proportional to the height giving the dog its gigantic size. The coat consists of thick, wavy and long hair. The color of the coat should always be black. Make sure that you do not trim down the beard.   

Grooming

The coat of a Black Russian Terrier is weatherproof because of its hard, wavy and thick characteristics. The hair is about 1 – 1.5 inches long. It is important that the owner/trainer/handler do regular trimming of the hair especially on the eyebrows so that the Black Russian Terrier have a good vision. The thick coat needs daily brushing so that top condition would be maintained. Bathe if only necessary.

Mood

The Black Russian Terrier is an alert and protective type of dog. It would instantly bark at any stranger or suspicious character to protect what’s inside of its territory. Young Black Russian Terriers, despite of its size are very affectionate and playful and their behavior should not be mistaken to aggression. This breed is also curious, playful, active and sensitive. Owners/trainers/handlers should not use harsh and rough tones to the Black Russian Terrier when communicating because it may snap or bite.

This breed has a balance and firm leadership. As a matter of fact, it can be trusted to live with other dogs or animals. This breed takes a very long time to bloom or mature. Many people underestimate the Black Russian Terrier and presume that the dog is already mature because of its great size.

With Children

This breed is sweet, affectionate and playful around children. Parents should always supervise their children whenever they are playing with the Black Russian Terrier. This breed has strong and very powerful movements and it cannot tell whether your children are getting hurt or still enjoying.

Training & Exercise

Size is relative to energy and the Black Russian Terrier can prove it. This giant dog has a lot of energy stored in its body and only long exercises can satisfy it. 2 – 3 hours of long or brisk daily walk is the suggested exercise for this breed. It will not do well inside the house and would only channel its energy on unproductive and destructive behavior. However, it would do nice outside or in a fenced and secured yard to run or stroll around.

The Black Russian Terrier is an intelligent breed. This dog enjoys every training session with their master. Be careful not upset the Black Russian Terrier by using harsh or rough tone because it may become independent during training sessions. Always ready a food reward whenever the dog completes a certain task.

Health & Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of a Black Russian Terrier is around 10 – 14 years. This breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia because of the weight it places on its elbow and hips. Make sure that you clean the dog’s ears to prevent ear infections. To prevent skin infections, regularly check for ticks and burrs because these pests can easily thrive on the dog’s thick coat.

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