Black Russian Terrier
Black Russian Terrier
Calm, courageous, confident, self-assured, large, and with a tousled coat. Black Russian terriers are quick learners but can sometimes be stubborn and lazy. Call into existence by the Russian army as an army dog in freezing climates, and the Black Russian Terrier temperament is brave and lively.
Origin
The black Russian terrier was originated in the cold climates of Russia in the late 1940s and early 1950s as a military dog. They are also referred to as Chornyi, Terrier Noir Russe, Russian Bear Schnauzer, Black Terrier, and Stalin’s dog. The breeders of black Russian terrier started with a Giant Schnauzer. They crossed him with other breeds, including the Moscow Retriever, Caucasian Ovcharka, Newfoundland, Giant Schnauzers, Standard Schnauzers, and Rottweiler, now on the edge of extinction. It resulted in a giant black dog with an overprotective temperament. The Black Russian Terrier received recognition from the FCI in 1984 but gained AKC recognition in 2004.
Size
The black Russian terrier is a giant terrier with 27 to 30 inches. Both males and females can weigh up to 80 to 130 pounds. The pups of black Russian terriers can weigh up to 24 to 36 pounds when they are four months old. By the time they are six months old, they will weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. They will be entirely grown by the time they are 12 months old. However, the male Russian terrier appears more significant than most female terriers. As for their colors, you’ll always find them in black color.
Coat
The coat of the black Russian terrier should always be dark black with the double-layered coat that requires weekly brushing. Any white or another color within the skin is a debarment. They need grooming, particularly around the face and eyes, at least every 1 or 2 months, if not earlier. The coat generally feels hard to touch and is very close-knit. They have a wiry or curly coat that varies from 1.5 to 4 inches. However, they don’t shed much, but it does develop tangles if it isn’t regularly brushed.
Temperament
The black Russian terrier is a loving, family-oriented, energetic, affectionate, curious and over-protective breed. The black Russian terrier love to play with kids and constantly seeks the attention of their family, so if you are not available to the dog for long periods, they might not be the perfect pet for you. The black Russian terrier makes an effective guard dog as they are suspicious of strangers and instinctively protect their family. They can also get along with other dogs only if they have made themselves entirely dominant over both dogs.
Care
The black Russian terrier is a highly active breed that requires regular exercise. Nails should be trimmed once a month, and ears should be checked and cleaned every week. One should never touch their face and eyebrows; however, the body will need trimming 3-4 times a year.
Health
They are generally healthy but have some health conditions that can be a concern, such as urinary tract stones, hip and elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. However, it is essential to take your pet for a checkup and make sure to ask for a health clearance certificate before you get this giant guard dog home.
