Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terrier
History:

Country/Date of Origin: Russia/20th century Developed in Russia just after World War II, the Black Russian Terrier was created to fill a need for a large fearless utility dog for military and police work. Base stock was the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, Rottweiler and the Russian Newfoundland or Russian Diver (a cross of Newfoundland with different breeds). The result was a hardy dog that looks like a stocky version of the Giant Schnauzer but with a more actively protective personality. The breed originated in the military kennel, "Red Star" near Moscow. But for a long time now, St. Petersburg has been the source for quality Blackies. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, export restrictions relaxed and the Black Russian Terrier-- commonly known as the BRT-- is finding new friends around the world.

FCI Group: 2 (Working)

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Tjorniy Terrier, BRT

AKC Group: Terrier

Breed Club:

Rescue Club:

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Body Type:

  • A large, well muscled dog that resembles a stocky Giant Schnauzer
  • Height: 25-30 inches (at shoulder)
  • Recommended height for show dogs is 27-29 inches and weight is 80-130 pounds. Dog must be robust, rather massive and have good bone structure
  • Ears are natural, medium size hanging down from the cartilage and with the front edge lying close to the cheek, like the Rottweiler's
  • Tail is docked to 4-5 vertebrae (to be 4-6 inches in the mature dog)

Personality:

  • Tends to be one-person dog
  • Intensely loyal
  • Protective of both family and property
  • Suspicious towards strangers

Coat:

  • The double coat is thick and wiry giving the dog a shaggy tousled look
  • Only color accepted is black, with a few gray hairs allowed on the back
  • Any markings, gray or any other color is a disqualification fault
  • Grooming is moderate

Health Concerns:

  • Hip dysplasia
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Becoming very popular in Europe; there are over 300 BRTs registered with the Black Russian Terriers Club of America
  • Email requests about the BRT Club
  • Males can be dog-aggressive with large breeds because of the tendency to dominate
  • They get along with cats and other small pets
  • Early socialization and Obedience training is very important
  • For a person without experience with Working Dogs, a female is a better choice
  • Blackies are very sensitive with owners and must be handled firmly but not roughly