Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed Profile
The Black Russian Terrier is a large dog that was bred
for police and military work in Russia. She is a great
watch dog and guard dog. She really needs to be housed
with her human family but would also appreciate plenty
of exercise. She needs an experienced handler, especially
for males. They love other dogs but might do very poorly
with other dominant type dogs. They also love children
but may not take to your childrens friends. Just as
a reminder, never leave any puppy or dog alone with
any child for any length of time.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older)
of the male Black Russian Terrier is between 25 and
29 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder)
and female is approximately 25 to 28 inches to the withers.
Both sexes run around 80 to 140 pounds with the males
being heavier.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems
associated with that specific breed and the Black Russian
Terrier is no exception. Canine hip and elbow dysplasia
(genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead
to arthritis pain and lameness), and Ear Otitis (infection
of the outer ear canal due to debris, dampness and excess
wax causing an infection). This disease list is an informative
guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant
threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete
list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the
first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as
an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for
shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and
on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for
check ups and shots. Please remember, avoid feeding
your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Black Russian Terrier has a tousled, waterproof
double coat. Her under coat is soft while her outer
coat is coarse. She needs at least one half hour of
brushing a week plus professional grooming every six
weeks or so and trimming up to three times a year. Cut
excess hair from underneath the paws and remove hair
from ear ducts to avoid ear problems. She will barely
shed. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy
coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health
and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with
toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing
removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which
can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease.
Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth,
bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and
clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow
slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally
a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore
and competent instructions to accomplish this can be
found on the net.
Life Span
The Black Russian Terrier can live between 12 and 14
years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent
living conditions.
History
After World War II, the Black Russian Terrier was developed
by the military in Russia for police and military work.
The Russian military allowed some puppies to be owned
by civilians in 1957, thus starting the commercialization
of the breed. They are rare outside of Russia. Export
controls were lifted after the end of the cold war and
American breeders began working with them. The American
Kennel Association recognized this breed in July, 2004.
Some Registries
* BRTCA Black Russian Terrier Club of America
* NKC National Kennel Club
* CKC Continental Kennel Club
* APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
* AKC American Kennel Club
* FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
* ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
* ACR American Canine Registry
Litter Size
6 to 10 Black Russian Terrier puppies
Category
Terrier
Terms To Describe
Brave, stubborn, intelligent, observant, robust, large,
powerful, courage, strength, aloof, confident, calm,
loyal
SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
* Makes a good watch dog.
* Makes a good guard dog.
* Good temperament.
* High endurance.
* Bred to protect and guard.
* They seem to get along with cats and small pets.
* Tolerates cold well.
* Strong desire to please.
* Fairly rare outside Russia.
SPECIAL BAD POINTS
* Tends to be a one person dog.
* Can be aggressive toward other large dogs.
* Males are for experienced handlers only.
* Can become destructive if bored.
Other Names Known By
Tjorniy Terrier, BRT, Blackie, Black Terrier, Tchiorny
Terrier, Chornyi, Russian Bear Schnauzer, Russian Black
Terrier, BRT
About the Author
For more facts and info on the Black
Russian Terrier or a full list of dog breeds take
a look at this Dog Training website.
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