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Black Russian Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Black Russian Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Working Dogs
Popularity Rank116
Reviews4
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Black Russian Terrier dog profile picture
OriginRussia flagRussia
Other Names
What other names does the Black Russian Terrier have?
Black TerrierMustaterrieriRussian Bear SchnauzerSchwarzer Russicher TerrierStalin's DogTchiorny TerrierTerrier Noir RussemChornyi
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Black Russian Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is a Black Russian Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Black Russian Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Black Russian Terrier?

Giant
Weight
How much does the Black Russian Terrier weigh? How much should a Black Russian Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Black Russian Terrier? How much does a full-grown Black Russian Terrier weight?
80-143 pounds (36-65 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Black Russian Terrier?
111.5 pounds (50.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Black Russian Terrier? Black Russian Terrier height:
Male: 25-29 inches (64-74 cm), Female: 25-28 inches (64-72 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Black Russian Terrier?
Male: 27 inches (69 cm), Female: 26.5 inches (68 cm)

Black Russian Terrier Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Black Russian Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Black Russian Terrier in the United States? How much money is a Black Russian Terrier?

Where to buy a Black Russian Terrier with a good pedigree?

$1800-$2500
If you choose to purchase the Black Russian Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Black Russian Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Black Russian Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Black Russian Terrier? How many Black Russian Terrier are there in the world?
Frequent: The Black Russian Terrier is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Black Russian Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Black Russian Terrier? Is the Black Russian Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Black Russian Terrier obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Black Russian Terrier ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Black Russian Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Black Russian Terrier?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Black Russian Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Black Russian Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Black Russian Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Black Russian Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Black Russian Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Black Russian Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Black Russian Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulIndependentEnergeticConfidentAffectionateLivelyGentleSocialCheerfulBraveStableDefensive
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Black Russian Terrier sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Black Russian Terrier dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Black Russian Terrier a good family dog?
Average to High: Black Russian Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Black Terrier need? Black Russian Terrier social needs:
Black Russian Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Black Russian Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Black Russian Terrier roam?
Black Russian Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Black Russian Terrier have high prey drive?
Black Russian Terrier dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Black Russian Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Black Russian Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Black Russian Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Black Terrier bark?
Average: The Black Russian Terrier barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Black Russian Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Black Russian Terrier in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Black Russian Terrier indoors.

Black Russian Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Black Russian Terrier dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Black Russian Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Black Russian Terrier alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Black Russian Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Black Russian Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Black Russian Terrier? How much bite force does a Black Russian Terrier have? How strong is a Black Russian Terrier bite?

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Black Russian Terrier bite force: The Strongest. The Black Russian Terrier bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Black Russian Terrier measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Black Russian Terrier dogs is impressive, and their Black Russian Terrier bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Black Russian Terrier PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of a Black Russian Terrier bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train a Black Russian Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Biting Potential
Do Black Russian Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Black Terrier? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Black Russian Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Black Russian Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Black Russian Terrier do?
Black Russian Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Black Russian Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Black Russian Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Black Russian Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Black Russian Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Black Russian Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Black Russian Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Black Russian Terrier:
Hip Dysplasia AllergiesProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Elbow DysplasiaUrinary Stones
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Black Russian Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Black Russian Terrier see the vet?
Frequent
The Black Russian Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Black Russian Terrier dogs live? How old can a Black Russian Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Black Russian Terrier? How many years can the oldest Black Russian Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Black Russian Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of a Black Russian Terrier?

10-14 years
The average lifespan of Black Russian Terrier: 12 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Black Russian Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Black Russian Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Black Russian Terrier?
Black Russian Terrier dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Black Russian Terrier need? How much exercise do Black Russian Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Black Russian Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Black Russian Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Black Russian Terrier breed need?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Black Russian Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Black Russian Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Black Russian Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Black Russian Terrier? How much food should I feed my Black Russian Terrier?
3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Black Russian Terrier risk for obesity:
Average: The Black Russian Terrier has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Black Russian Terrier weight regularly.

Black Russian Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Black Russian Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
RoughCurlyWaterproof
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Black Russian Terrier coats?
BlackGray
Grooming
How to groom the Black Russian Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Black Russian Terrier to the groomer?
Average: The Black Russian Terrier requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Black Russian Terrier, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Black Russian Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Black Terrier? Do Black Russian Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Black Russian Terrier dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Black Russian Terrier dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Black Russian Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Black Russian Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Black Russian Terrier every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Black Russian Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
No
Black Russian Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Black Russian Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Black Russian Terrier drool?
The Black Russian Terrier is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Black Russian Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Black Russian Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Black Russian Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Black Russian Terrier temperament with other people:
Black Russian Terrier dogs are not stranger friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Black Russian Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Black Russian Terrier temperament with children:
Black Russian Terrier dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Black Russian Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Black Russian Terrier breed live with a cat?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Black Russian Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Black Russian Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Black Russian Terrier dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Black Russian Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Black Russian Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Black Russian Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Black Russian Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Black Russian Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Black Russian Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Black Russian Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Black Terrier temperament with senior people? Are Black Russian Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Black Russian Terriers are commonly okay with elderly people.

Black Russian Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Black Russian Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Black Russian Terrier be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Black Russian Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Black Russian Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Black Russian Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a boat dog?

Not really

Black Russian Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Black Russian Terrier be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Black Russian Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Black Russian Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Black Russian Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Black Russian Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Black Russian Terrier breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Black Russian Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Black Russian Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Black Russian Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Black Russian Terrier have? How many puppies can a Black Russian Terrier give birth to?
6-12 puppies

Black Russian Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Black Russian Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2004 as a Working breed.
FCI Group
Is Black Russian Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Pinscher and Schnauzer type section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Black Russian Terrier breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel Club

Black Russian Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Black Russian Terrier dogs are easy to train.
  • Shedding Level: Black Russian Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Watchdog Ability: Black Russian Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Black Russian Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Issues: Black Russian Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Black Russian Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Mouthiness: Black Russian Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Office Friendly: Black Russian Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Black Russian Terrier History

The Russian Black Terrier breed was born in Russia in the second half of the 1940s. The Russian Black Terrier was created by the following dog breeds crossing: Rottweiler, Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, and Newfoundland. The Giant Schnauzer can be defined as the main ancestor of the breed. The beginnings of breeding were supervised by a Moscow military dog school and the dogs were home to the kennel "Red Star". The breeders aimed at developing a large, brave, powerful and manageable work dog with a strong guarding and protective instinct. The Russian Black Terrier can be used for many purposes and adapts well to an average to cold weather.

Rate The Black Russian Terrier Breed

Black Russian Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Lina

    Jun 23, 2023, 4:23:47 AM:

    The smartest dogs ever. Highly intelligent, smart, loyal. Not for the 1st time owner. Easy to train. Good for agility obedience and Riley. They are working dogs, so basically good for everything which requires work for them

  • 1

    Jan 18, 2023, 5:38:58 PM:

    Recommended

  • Brian

    Jan 1, 2022, 3:18:13 AM:

    I’ve had BRT’s since 2010. I’ve never been so impressed by a dog.

  • Sharon

    Feb 5, 2021, 5:12:06 PM:

    I used to have 2 a boy and a girl. The dogs are incredible. Loyal to family, extremely smart and easy to train. good with children. didn't get sick at all. love cold weather. they both lived 15 years