Black Russian Terrier

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceNeeds space

  Wants plenty of room indoors and out.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Black Russian Terrier was created at the Red Star military kennels near Moscow in the 1940s and 1950s, combining the Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Airedale and around a dozen other breeds into a large, cold-hardy working dog for military and guard duty. It is classified by the AKC in the Working group, and despite the name it does not behave like a terrier at all: it is a calm, watchful guardian. This is a demanding dog and not a first dog. A BRT is highly intelligent, strongly bonded to its family and naturally suspicious of strangers, and without extensive early socialisation and firm, consistent, reward-based training, that protectiveness becomes a serious liability in a sixty-kilo animal. It is generally calm indoors but needs an hour or more of daily exercise plus real mental work, and it wants to be with its people rather than left in a yard. The long dense double coat is a genuine commitment: brushing several times a week, professional trimming every couple of months, and daily attention to the beard, which soaks up water and food. Buy from a breeder who screens hips and elbows, DNA-tests for progressive retinal atrophy and for juvenile laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy, which is specific to this breed and has a test. Feed measured meals to reduce bloat risk, keep the dog lean, and expect ten to twelve years.

• How much exercise does a Black Russian Terrier need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Black Russian Terrier need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Black Russian Terrier suited to apartment living?

  Needs space. Wants plenty of room indoors and out.

• Is a Black Russian Terrier a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Black Russian Terrier live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Black Russian Terrier?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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