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.

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