Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier (BRT), commonly known as Russian terrier or just Blackie is quickly gaining in popularity in Europe and North America. This large Russian dog definitely represents one of the top Russian breeds.  Its majestic black beauty and well-muscled, large-boned frame (click for video) inevitably attracts high attention at any national or world dog show. At the same time this kind of dog is one of the best choices in a search for a perfect working dog (Photo Credit: _Nezemnaya_/Flickr)

Actually, the Russian terrier should be called a Soviet dog rather than a Russian dog.  This new kind of dog was created after the Second World War by breeding kennels of the Soviet Army for police and military purposes. The military wanted to have a large and trainable guarding dog that could withstand Siberian frosts and didn’t require any special treatment and grooming. As the base stock they used the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, Rottweiler and the Russian Newfoundland.

Civilians were allowed to own some of the puppies in late 1950s when the commercialization of the new breed started. After the collapse of the Soviet Union more and more Blackies were brought to the West by Russian migrants. The international breed standard was established only in 1996 by the World Canine Federation, followed by Kennel Clubs of Great Britain, Canada and the US.

Another name for this black Russian dog is Russian Pearl, given to it in the West not only for its appearance but for its rare working abilities. This breed unites the energy and mobility of Schnauzer, cleverness and upbeat nature of Airedale, strength and courage of Rottweiler, and firmness of Newfoundland. The Russian terrier is extremely efficient and reliable, and makes an excellent watch and guard dog, alongside with other Russian guard dogs (Caucasian dog, Central Asian dog, Russian Sheepdog, Moscow Dog and Russian German Shepherd). It is wary of strangers and extremely attached to and protective of both family and property. It is loyal to other home pets but can be aggressive towards other dominant type dogs.

Russian Terriers are generally healthy and can live as long as 10-14 years.  Some of them are prone to hip or elbow dysplasia, as well as ear otitis.

Owning the Russian Pearl may become a challenge.  This black Russian dog is naturally dominant and needs an experienced master, especially for males.  It always tends to be a one person dog, and though it loves children it’s not recommended to leave Blackie with them alone.  Early socialization and obedience training is very desirable. On the other hand, a well-trained Russian terrier is absolutely controllable in any situation.

Measures:

Height: 25 to 28 inches (males about 27, females about 26)

Weight: 80 to 150 pounds (males and females)

Breed Names:

Russian Terrier, Black Terrier, Russian Black Terrier, Black Russian Terrier, Russian Pearl, Tchiorny Terrier, Chernysh, Russian Bear Schnauzer, Blackie, BRT

Breed Standard is here

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