The Black Russian Terrier, or tchiorny terrier, is big, handsome, and a great guard and defense dog. Despite its name, it does not belong to the terrier group, but to the pinscher and schnauzer type dogs. They are some very active dogs and depending on how, a bit aggressive, since originally they were defense dogs. They need to do a lot of exercise and live in places outdoors and with large surfaces to have a lot of physical activity.
In this article on our site we are going to show you the origins, physical characteristics, character, care, education and he alth of the Black Russian Terriers, in case you're thinking of adopting one of these.
Origin of the Black Russian Terrier
In the 1940s, the Soviet military decided to create a breed of dogs very versatile work, capable of responding well in different conditions and ready to defend their own in any circumstance. For this, they selected the most suitable breeds of dogs from those existing in the countries that were under Soviet occupation.
The breeds that stood out the most in the creation of the Black Russian Terrier were the Giant Schnauzer, the Airedale Terrier and the Rottweiler. By 1957, the dogs resulting from these crosses were presented to the public and the first black terriers were delivered to civilian settlers.
In 1968, the first breed standard was given to the International Cynological Federation, but that organization only officially recognized the Black Russian Terrier in 1984. In 2001, the breed was also recognized by the Kennel Club American. Today it is a little-known breed, but it enjoys a circle of fans and admirers, especially among people who are adept at sports with protection dogs.
Physical Characteristics of the Black Russian Terrier
The males reach a height at the withers of 66 to 72 centimeters, similar to that of a Dobermann. The females reach a height at the withers of 64 to 70 centimeters. This would make tchiorny terriers the tallest terriers, but they don't really belong in that group. They are named after terriers because of the airedale's involvement in creating the breed, but they are schnauzer-type working dogs. The ideal weight is not indicated in the FCI breed standard, but the Black Russian Terrier usually weighs between 36 and 65 kilograms. These dogs, larger than the average dog, are robust and rustic Long-legged, the muscular body is slightly higher at the withers than it is long, in a long/tall ratio of 100/106.
The black terrier's head is long, moderately broad, and has a flattened forehead. The mustache and beard give the muzzle a square appearance. The eyes are small, oval, dark and set obliquely. The ears are small and triangular, set high and hanging from their base.
This dog's tail is thick and set high. Unfortunately, the FCI standard requires that the tail be amputated at the third or fourth vertebra. This represents permanent damage to the dog that is not justified solely for "aesthetic" reasons or to follow a breed standard that is clearly in the past.
The coat of the Black Russian Terrier is rough, hard, dense and close-fitting. It can be black or black with gray hairs.
Black Russian Terrier Character
These dogs are energetic, wary of strangers and aggressive They are excellent defense dogs, both for their powerful structure and for their character assertive and brave. It is very important to socialize these dogs at an early age, because they tend to be distrustful and aggressive with strangers. With their family, and especially with known children, they tend to be excellent pets and very friendly. They can get along with dogs they know, but tend to be domineering or sullen around unfamiliar dogs. They can also learn to live with other pets.
Black Russian Terriers can cause problems for inexperienced owners. Although they can become excellent pets, we must consider that they are working dogs, with a predisposition to react aggressively to real or fictitious threats. Therefore, they do not adapt well to life in large, densely populated cities, unless their owner is knowledgeable about protection dogs.
Black Russian Terrier Care
The Black Russian Terrier does not lose much hair when his coat is well cared for. For this, it is necessary to brush regularly the hair two or three times a week, and it is recommended to take the dog to the dog groomer approximately every two months. It is also recommended to bathe the dog regularly, but not more than once a month.
These dogs need lots of exercise and lots of company. Although they are working dogs, they are not kennel dogs and they suffer a lot when they are left alone for a long time. In addition to three daily walks, they need to do some more intense exercise. Canine sports, such as obedience trials or agility can be useful to channel the energy of these dogs. Care must be taken, however, not to injure the joints, as these dogs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Black Russian Terrier Education
The Black Russian Terrier is a dog that descends from generations of "working" dogs, so it is not surprising that they have a certain facility for training and education in general.
The puppy will need to learn basic habits, such as peeing in the street, bite control and even socialize properly to prevent behavior problems in their adult stage, such as fear or aggressiveness. Already in his stage youngwe will initiate him in basic training, teaching him fundamental orders for his safety, such as sit, lie down, come here or stay still.
Later on we will be able to introduce the dog to other activities, such as canine skills, Agility, advanced education… All the time we dedicate to our dog, including the use of intelligence toys, will help us to improve our bond with him, as well as to promote better behavior and well-being.
Black Russian Terrier He alth
Among the most common diseases in this breed are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Of course, other canine diseases can also occur, but these are the most typical in the breed.
