Black Russian Terrier

During World War II, Russians developed a new breed of dog to fit their military needs. They bred dogs from occupied countries, which were mainly black German breeds such as the Airedale Terrier, Rottweiler, and Moscow Water Dog. These dogs worked alongside soldiers, performing tasks such as transporting supplies, pulling sleds, searching and rescuing, and detecting explosives. Black Russian Terrier dog breeders left Russia with the dogs and made their way to other countries, spreading the breed across the world.

The Black Russian Terrier needs an owner who understands the mind of a working dog and has experience with very large breeds. The BRT dog is focused on its owner, so owners will need to make time and effort to cater to the dog’s need to please them. They are affectionate and loyal, which is demonstrated through their protectiveness. They need positive, consistent, and firm training to succeed and need to be socialized well to prevent them from becoming domineering.

Long walks, runs, swims, bike rides, hikes—you name it, the Black Russian Terrier wants to do it if their owner is doing it. They need plenty of exercise to keep them exhausted; otherwise, they can become lonely, bored, and destructive. They can participate in dog sports such as rallying, protection competitions, agility courses, and obedience.

The Black Russian Terrier dog can get up to 130 pounds and needs enough space indoors and outside to accommodate them. Fenced-in yards on lots of land are ideal. Inside, they will want to be in on the family action, sharing living spaces with their humans. They don’t do well in isolation, such as in a removed kennel.

A tousled, thick, and jet-black coat defines the Black Russian Terrier. It needs frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting, and the hair around the beard and mustache will need to be trimmed regularly. If they are professionally groomed, you’ll need to find a groomer who specializes in or has experience grooming such a large dog.

Black Russian Terrier owners need to commit to training this large and powerful dog through reward-based methods. They can become domineering if not trained properly. Early and ongoing socialization is also important. They will learn quickly if treated fairly and with respect.

The Black Russian Terrier dog loves to be with his or her family more than anything. However, they are extremely large dogs that have some space, exercise, and training requirements that make them suitable for only certain family situations, such as those with no children or older children. They love human contact and are affectionate dogs.

The cost of a Black Russian Terrier from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.