The Black Terrier is a Russian breed, although it has foreigners in its genesis. This giant gives the impression of a black monolith without emotion or aggression.
However, first impressions are deceiving. It’s just that this breed doesn’t have the “talking” ears of a German Shepherd and open eyes sad Saint Bernard.
But The black terrier has a character that can only be learned through friendship and service.
The black terrier was bred at the military dog breeding school near Moscow on the basis of the Krasnaya Zvezda breeding kennel.
The order for it came from I.V. Stalin shortly after the end of the Great Patriotic War - in the harsh climate of the country it was not always possible to use European breeds. The goal of the nursery was to:
- get large, bold, strong, manageable a dog with a pronounced protective instinct;
- dog suitable for carrying various types services, adapted to different climatic conditions.
Soviet Russia needed its own dog, ready for hard service, and it appeared.
In order to develop a breed that is fully adapted to harsh and varied conditions, Long interbreeding had to be carried out. The black terrier was obtained from numerous crossings of dogs of such breeds as,.
As a result of painstaking work, by 1981 it was decided that the black terrier breed had been created and it was time to establish it as a standard. The standard was finally adopted in 1983, and in 2010 its new edition appeared.
Description of the breed
FCI Standard No. 327 dated October 13, 2010
Group 2 "Pinchers and Schnauzers - Great Danes and Swiss Mountain Cattle Dogs."
Section 1 “Pinchers and Schnauzers”.
Standard height at withers:
- males - 72-76 cm, but not less than 70 cm and not more than 78 cm.
- females - 68-72 cm, but not less than 66 cm and not more than 74 cm.
More high growth allowed provided the proportions are maintained and the correct breed type.
Weight: males - 50-60 kg, females - 45-50 kg.
The standard imposes the following requirements for the exterior:
- The body is massive, proportionally built.
- The chest is wide and deep, the ribs are convex. The withers are well defined. The back is straight, muscular, the loin is short, slightly convex, the croup is long and wide.
- The head is elongated, widened in the area of the brain part of the skull. A mustache and beard are required. The nose is large and dark, the gums are dark.
- The neck is massive, long, and muscular.
- The ears are drooping, but carried high. The standard ear shape is a triangle.
- The eyes are oval and widely set. The eyelids are dry and tight fitting.
- Has 42 teeth. The bite is scissor-shaped, the incisors are located on the same line.
- The tail is docked at the level of the third vertebra.
- The legs are straight and parallel. The shoulder blades are long and set at right angles. The shoulders are parallel and vertical.
- The paws are rounded, the claws are dark.
- The coat is coarse with a soft undercoat. There is decorative hair that forms the beard and mustache.
- The only color allowed is black with a little graying.
Dogs of this breed are good runners, making long jumps.
The usual gait is trot and gallop. When running, the paws are placed straight, the joints extend freely. 
Character, abilities, skills
The breed was bred specifically for guard duty. The task of the black terrier is to protect the territory and objects located on it from the penetration of a stranger. Such dogs “keep the circle”, that is, they do not allow people beyond a certain line.
These properties make it possible to use black terriers as bodyguards. A properly trained dog will guard its owners and their children with restraint, but strictly.
At a young age, these dogs have a cheerful and lively disposition. In the same time They are famous for their fearlessness, independence and confidence.
At a more mature age, black terriers become sedate, which does not affect their working qualities.
Until old age they will be faithful watchmen and bodyguards.
Puppies of all large breeds they grow up late. The black terrier is no exception. Puppies should be obedience trained until they are one year old. After a year, you can begin guard training. With proper training, a good service dog will be ready by the age of two.
Only this smart and even intelligent dog cannot be kept on a chain. However, such captivity is harmful to any dog. Chain dogs- these are always natures with a damaged psyche.
The black terrier is well adapted to living in a city apartment. Despite the fact that this dog is big and shaggy, There is little dirt and inconvenience from it.
The fact is that With proper care of your dog's coat, you can minimize the dirtiness of your apartment. To do this, you will have to constantly comb out the thick undercoat.
It is necessary to bathe a dog only if it lives in the same house as a person. This should be done as needed, but not more than once a month.
Frequent bathing demoralizes the dog, because it loses its natural scent.
Large breed dogs rarely eat as adults. Usually once a day is enough. The most healthy eating consists of a combination of porridges from various cereals with meat and sea fish.
The most a big problem in this case is that Dogs should be periodically fed raw and even slightly rotten meat. After all, by their nature they are not so much predators as scavengers. In this case, there is
It is much easier to feed dogs sea fish that has not undergone heat treatment. The fact is that helminths that live in marine fish do not settle in the bodies of land mammals. For this reason Feel free to feed your pet fish that has been deboned. Fresh herring is especially suitable for this.
Can only be given as an addition to other foods. Even the best and most balanced dry food will not replace natural food.
The best dish for them would be buckwheat with pieces raw meat or fish. In addition, puppies need dairy products, but only in the form of cottage cheese, kefir or yogurt.
Black terriers are hardy dogs. With proper care, they can live up to 15 years. Moreover, they develop senile diseases after ten years. Approximately up to seven years they retain all their working qualities and can protect people and territory.
Pros and cons, price
The advantage of black terriers is combination of excellent working qualities a dedicated guard with patience and tact.
The disadvantages include the need for constant coat care. In addition, with any care you will find dog hair in any corner of your apartment.
You can buy a black terrier puppy for a price in the range from 25 to 50 thousand rubles. The cost depends on:
- region;
- puppy age;
- pedigree;
- breeder's pricing policy, etc.
The Black Russian Terrier is a wonderful breed, but it is not suitable for all purposes. These black giants cannot be just dogs. They need to work, but work can be replaced by long walks.
Additionally, check out a short video about the Black Russian Terrier breed:
This dog contains contradictory qualities - courage, power, rage, resourcefulness, love of life and restraint. The Black Terrier breed is chosen by those who need true friend, protector or companion, while the owner receives an easily trained, energetic puppy that does not require specific complex care. Before purchasing a pet, it is important to learn about breed standards and training features.
Black Russian Terrier - Stalin's famous dog
This is a well-known breed, bred by domestic breeders, and is the pride of Russian dog handlers. There is an opinion that the order to create this universal dog was given by Stalin himself. Shaggy giants amaze with their grace, sharp mind, impeccable grace, unwavering devotion to the owner and spectacular appearance. The Russian Terrier dog is one of the most popular types of guard breeds.
Requirements for breeding a new breed
The history of the emergence of black beauties goes back to the distant twenties of the last century, while the breed was bred to serve man. The main requirement for pets was the ability to serve in various climatic zones. In addition, the Black Russian Terrier had to be hardy and have a powerful build. Other requirements for RCT are:
- high limbs for fast running;
- strong jaws;
- thick, hard coat with undercoat, thanks to which the animal can be exposed to severe frost;
- wide paw pads for easy movement in the snow without falling into snowdrifts;
- protective instinct, controlled ferocity;
- learning ability, tendency to follow orders and obedience.
Origin story
In 1924, by order of the Revolutionary Military Council, the Red Star nursery was created. where military and sports dogs were trained. The organization had training grounds and laboratories at its base. The kennel prepared dogs for guard duty, communications, sanitary needs, and reconnaissance. Afterwards, the dogs began to learn subversive and sabotage tasks. Four-legged fighters helped a lot during the Second World War, helping soldiers defend the country from the Nazis. After the end of hostilities, a battalion of dogs walked along Red Square along with the soldiers.
Having learned the lessons of the war, the USSR government in 1949 gave the kennel a state order to breed dogs specifically for the needs of the army. In addition to being ferocious, the breed had to be intelligent, easy to train, able to cope well with physical activity, and have long paws and be able to perform guard duty. The main reason The need for the selection of black terriers was that the guard dogs, which were used by the army at that time, were not adapted to work in low temperatures. German shepherds could stay in frost below 20 degrees for no longer than 6 hours.
Since the breeding of the black terrier occurred at the end of the reign of Joseph Vissarionovich, the name of the breed “Stalin’s dog” is rather popular. Lieutenant Colonel Kalinin, the head of the nursery and the pride of Soviet cynology, worked on the project. As a result of his activities, the Black Russian Terrier or RCT was born. At the same time, different breeds were used during selection, since the species being prepared had to have many traits - controlled aggressiveness, calm character, sharp mind.
In addition, the dog had to have strong muscles and be of impressive size. The exterior of the animal, however, did not have of great importance. Scientists decided to combine the genes of such breeds as:
- Giant Schnauzer (bravery, intelligence, large size);
- Rottweiler (aggressiveness, strong joints, strong bones, good guard skills);
- Airedale Terrier (self-confidence, large sizes, fearlessness).
The first generations of black cats had certain disadvantages - short hair, weak teeth, their testicles did not descend into the scrotum. Over time, the flaws were eliminated and in 1957 the first representatives of the RCT were presented to the world (at the All-Union Exhibition of Hunting and Working Dogs). In the same year, the breed began to be sold to private individuals. Breeders still continue to improve and supplement pets, resulting in two types of breed - long-haired and short-haired blackies.
Description of the breed
Blackies are large, tall dogs with powerful bones and strong muscles. Their body is tightly covered with skin that does not form folds or sagging. RCTs are distinguished by their natural malice and distrust of strangers, while the dogs are perfectly trainable and can live in any environment. climatic conditions, working as watchmen, acting as a companion, etc. The breed is characterized by mobility, a balanced character, and a developed defensive reaction.
Appearance
Bred for service work, the RCT is an athletic, large, reliable dog. The constitution of the breed is strong, the height of males varies between 66-72 cm, weight is 50-60 kg, females - 64-70 cm with a weight of 45-50 kg. The bones of the animal are large and strong, the head is proportional to the body, and the length is equal to the neck. Dogs with Newfoundland ancestry have short hair, while the body of the rest is covered with long, dense hair.
Breed standard
RCT is one of the few breeds whose gene pool includes a large number of the best qualities of other dogs. More than 15 breeds were involved in the creation of blackies, whose characteristics best satisfied the needs of breeders. According to the standard, RCT should look like this:
- General form. Massive bones, developed muscles, proportional build, average height - 71 cm at the withers.
- Head. The cheekbones are rounded, the skull has an elongated shape, tapering towards the muzzle. The dog's brow ridges are hidden, the forehead is flat, and the transition from it to the muzzle is barely noticeable. The black terrier has a mustache and beard made of wool; its nose is large, expressive, and dark in color. Pigmented deposits are visible on the gums.
- Ears. They hang from the cartilages, but are set high. The classic version is a triangle, the edges of which are adjacent to the cheekbones. The hanging part of the ears has no folds or indentations.
- Teeth. The incisors are arranged in one line, the bite is scissor-shaped. The dog has 42 teeth in total.
- Eyes. Oval in shape, widely set, dry eyelids, tightly fitting to the eyeballs.
- Neck. Same length as the head. It is massive.
- Frame. Deep, wide chest line with prominent ribs. The lower part of the body is located at the level with the elbows. The withers are well developed and stand out sharply. The dog's loin is relatively short, convex in shape, the croup is medium-long and wide.
- Paws. Black terriers have long, straight, rounded limbs. The claws are dark. The shoulder blades are set at the correct angle. The shoulders are of medium length, set parallel and vertical. The hips are wide, the legs vary in length, and the hock joint is clearly defined.
- Tail. Traditionally, it is stopped at the level of the 3rd vertebra. The tail of the RCT has a thick base and is set high.
Coat and color
The dog's coat has a break of approximately 6 cm, the texture of the coat is rough. Decorative hair (mustache and beard) is pronounced in RCT. To ensure good thermal insulation, the animal has a soft undercoat. The breed has an exclusively black coat, but small patches of gray are acceptable. Sometimes puppies' black fur turns brown or gray at 2-3 months, which can be due to various factors, including hormonal changes or genetic inheritance.
Dog character
The Black Russian Terrier has a reputation for being a highly trainable, loyal, fearless dog. A special feature of the breed is its rapid adaptation to both severe frost and hot climates, thanks to which a pet can be adopted in any region of Russia. Little blackies are loyal to their owners, understand commands well, but have a dominant character. The owner of the animal must have a firm hand so that the dog considers him the main one in the family.
Modern black terriers are more loyal than their ancestors, bred during the war and post-war years. Despite the pet’s mistrust and its strong, powerful physique, they do not pose any threat to the owners, which is confirmed by thousands of reviews from breeders of this breed. RCT is a hard worker, so he is characterized by a rich positive characteristic, including such features as:
- activity;
- responsibility;
- dexterity;
- fast reaction;
- high efficiency;
- controllability;
- endurance.
Black terriers are true friends for the members of the family in which they live. They are able to sensitively sense changes in a person’s mood, possessing developed intelligence. If you are not in a good mood, the pet will not get in the way. Good mood the terrier will happily share with you, offering to play. The dog treats family members with deep respect and awe. Despite the calm, reasonable, balanced nature of the pet, he is distinguished by his cheerfulness.
In case of danger, the animal will quickly and clearly react to the threat, independently assessing the situation. The dog reacts to guests based on the behavior of the owner. the primary reaction, however, is mistrust and wariness. The black terrier is one of the silent breeds, so it extremely rarely gives a voice without a reason. In addition, high intellectual abilities not only influence how well a dog is trained, but also allows it to remain indifferent to bribery from strangers.
Peculiarities of behavior of the Russian Terrier
Since the dog has a stubborn, dominant character, he needs a strict owner who will not allow him to break the rules. By nature, blacks tend to be wary and suspicious of everything new. If your pet is socialized from early childhood, the dog will be tolerant of other dogs or other animals, but you should not expect a warm welcome from the terrier.
The kindness of the RCT is revealed to the maximum in relation to small children: the pet is ready to give the kids all its attention, play carefully with them and even act as a caring nanny. Despite his relatively stern disposition, the dog forgives children for any pranks and is ready to be a toy for fidgets for some time. The disadvantage of the breed is aggression, so a leash and muzzle must be used while walking. The dog is willful and requires attention, so the option of chain keeping is excluded. The advantages of black terriers are:
- balanced character;
- the dog practically does not shed;
- excellent guard qualities;
- good memory, excellent learning ability, desire to please the owner;
- ability to work, high energy charge;
- strong immunity, excellent health;
- unpretentiousness in content;
- rapid adaptation to climate;
- easy handling;
- loyal attitude towards children and other animals.
Education and training
The black terrier, more than other breeds, needs proper training. By nature, this distrustful and somewhat rude dog can grow aggressive if the owner fails to develop it positive traits. To avoid this, you need to build a trusting, warm relationship with your pet, while making it clear who is in charge in the house. When training an RCT, you need firmness, consistency and fairness. You cannot treat a dog roughly, since it already strives very much to please a person.
Raising a pet requires the owner to demonstrate leadership qualities and constant supervision of the four-legged animal. When buying a puppy, soberly assess your own capabilities in training it, otherwise the guard potential of the black puppy may in the future become a problem even for family members. When training your pet, you should use short commands and an even tone of voice, and rudeness and excessive affection are excluded.
The peculiarity of black terriers is their sharp mind and good memory, thanks to which they quickly remember commands and actions. Representatives of this breed are excellent at agility and obedience, so they are recommended to take courses in these disciplines. This training will help a dog with a dominant character understand his place in the family. You need to understand that although your four-legged friend is obedient, due to his developed volitional potential, he may sometimes refuse to carry out a command: first the dog assesses the situation, and then acts.
To maintain health, your dog needs at least one long walk a day. Black terriers love to lie on the sofa with their family, but they also need active, more interesting pastime. Jogging, walking and cycling are very well accepted by the pet, but it is important that the owner is nearby, otherwise the dog will not be interested. It is recommended to walk with a leash: despite the dog’s loyal attitude towards the people around him, many people he meets are worried at the sight of such a large animal without a leash.
How to care for your blackie
Thanks to the almost ideal character of terriers (if they are raised correctly), the dog behaves well with other animals and small children, and reliably protects the family and the house in which it lives. In addition, this breed is unpretentious in living conditions and care. Black terriers are easily adaptable, so they can live both in a private house and in an apartment. Caring for a pet does not require any specific skills and consists of the following:
- Wool. Black terriers need to be washed and brushed regularly, but you will have to face the pet's dissatisfaction, since they don't really like water procedures. Accustom your animal to bathing once every 2 weeks from childhood, then he will tolerate it more calmly. In addition, pets need regular haircuts; hair should be shortened when the blackie is six months old.
- Eyes ears. These organs need regular inspection and cleansing with a swab moistened with water.
- Teeth. To prevent the formation of tartar, your dog's diet should include solid food. Brush your teeth special paste blackies need 1-2 times a week.
- Paws. Nail trimming occurs once every 2 months. After each walk, the paw pads should be inspected for stuck fragments and pebbles. The fur between the toes must be trimmed, as tangles may appear there and cause discomfort when walking.
Early socialization and adaptation
Experienced breeders recommend introducing the puppy to the outside world as early as possible, otherwise the animal may react inappropriately to strangers and animals. The first commands for the little one should be “near”, “to me” and “sit”. Thanks to the dog’s knowledge of such actions, walks will be as calm as possible, and surrounding people and dogs will be safe.
Grooming
Some owners of black Russian terriers complain that their pets' coat becomes too coarse and fades. To maintain the beautiful appearance of your dog’s coat, you need to follow certain rules:
- do not leave the animal for a long time in the open sun (under the influence of UV rays, the fur will lose its rich color and may acquire a brown tint);
- do not use a hairdryer after bathing, because under the influence of high temperatures, gray hairs appear on the fur coat, and the fur itself becomes overdried and brittle;
- monitor the humidity of the room in which the little blackie lives (over-dried air causes brittleness of the pet’s hair);
- must be used for swimming warm water because it's too heat will cause dulling of the coat;
- You need to comb the animal with a medium-hard brush and only after the fur has completely dried, otherwise the ends of the hair may become split;
- Be sure to provide your dog with a balanced diet.
Features of grooming
The need to groom Stalin's dog depends on its class (pet or show), as well as the quality of its coat. Some individuals have coarser guard hair, while others have it combined with a soft undercoat. There are other blackies whose undercoat is soft, long, and dominates the outer coat. Grooming for pets with the first type of coat involves annual shaving of the hair from the body and hips; other representatives of the breed require more careful care and frequent combing. Grooming black dogs is done as follows:
- the wool is pre-cleaned and combed well;
- the mustache and beard are trimmed on the dog’s head, smooth transitions from short- to long-cropped hair are formed;
- The body and limbs are cut strictly in accordance with the standard.
Diet
Despite the fact that the RCT is a predator by nature, the animal’s diet should not consist exclusively of meat, just as it is impossible to feed the dog only porridge with meat broth. If you prefer ready-made food natural nutrition for your four-legged friend, a balanced diet for him will include:
- lean meat, raw or cooked;
- porridge;
- bread (maximum 2 times a week);
- sea fish;
- seasonal vegetables and fruits;
- dairy products.
Mixing dry food with home cooking is highly discouraged, so it is important to decide right away what kind of food your pet will have. This prohibition is due to the fact that different stomach receptors are used to digest feed and natural food, as a result of which the dog may suffer from indigestion. Prohibited products are:
- chocolate;
- any snacks, fast food;
- smoked meats;
- spices, marinades.
Black Terrier puppies
RChT breeding nurseries are located in St. Petersburg, Moscow, Krasnodar, and Yekaterinburg. Black cats are also popular in Slovakia and Germany, from where puppies are brought to Russia. The exterior and characteristics of imported representatives of black terriers are no better than those of domestic individuals, and they are more expensive, so such an acquisition cannot be called successful.
Pedigree is the main factor in determining the price, but in some cases, puppies from elite parents do not have outstanding qualities. Before purchasing a puppy, it is important to ask how seriously the work is done in the nursery, which representatives of the breed are crossed there, how many exhibitions they attend and what places the dogs occupy. The training of animals in the nursery plays a significant role. It is cheaper to buy an RCT puppy from your own hands, but club dogs are vaccinated, have better health and have a wonderful character proven by several generations.
How to choose
The first thing you need to decide is the sex of the animal. A male dog will require more attention and perseverance from you in raising him, so he will only be suitable for a person with a strong-willed, strong character. If you are not 100% confident in your own abilities, it is better to choose a bitch who has a more obedient, flexible and loyal character. Healthy puppy has a shiny coat, is inquisitive, active, has a good appetite. The baby should feel confident when in contact with other puppies and people.
Rock defects
Any deviation from breed standards is considered a defect. Thus, common flaws in RCT include the following signs:
- deviation from the average weight or height of the animal;
- timidity, lack of self-confidence;
- tail tilted at the back;
- not black nose color;
- the presence of light spots on the fur (presence of small inclusions gray hair is not considered a flaw);
- light eye palettes.
Rules for raising a Russian Terrier puppy
Raising a little blackie should begin immediately after it appears in your home, otherwise it will be difficult to wean the four-legged bad habits, which he will manage to acquire during your inactivity. The basic rules that owners of an RCT puppy need to follow include:
- You need to feed the baby often, without overeating, otherwise the animal may become fat, which will negatively affect the health of the joints and lead to curvature hind legs;
- The bowl should be placed on some elevation so that it is located at the level of the puppy’s shoulders;
- parquet, laminate and linoleum provoke abnormal development of the animal’s limbs, so there should be a carpet or carpet in the room where the puppy lives;
- kids often behave too actively, they like funny Games, so it is important to ensure that they do not fall from the sofa/stairs, as this will lead to sprains;
- You should not stroke babies on the head, as this may affect the incorrect formation of the ears;
- You need to bathe or comb your puppy immediately after purchase: the sooner you start the process of accustoming to such procedures, the easier it will be for the animal to tolerate them in adulthood.
Black Russian Terrier price
The average cost of an RCT puppy is about $500, and you will receive healthy pet, with whom it will not be possible to participate in competitions and exhibitions due to the lack of a suitable pedigree. A show-class dog has a higher price - more than $750. On the Internet you can find advertisements for more profitable sales of black puppies, and this does not necessarily indicate the presence of flaws or mixing of blood.
Usually, low price indicates improper feeding of babies and lack of vaccinations, so when purchasing RCT, you should give preference to trusted breeders. You can buy a puppy in the following nurseries:
- “Adam Race Style” (Moscow, Yekaterinburg);
- “Treasure of Rus'” (Kyiv);
- "Pleiada Buyany" (Vladivostok);
- "Black Russia" (Novosibirsk).
Black Terrier - photo
Video
The Black Russian Terrier (FCI Standard 327) is a large, harmoniously built working dog with a memorable, expressive exterior. The breed, bred in the USSR, received the highest praise due to its working qualities, high intelligence and charm.
Height at withers: males 68-74 cm, females 66-72 cm. It is allowed to exceed the values by 3 cm above the norm.
Weight: males 45-68 kg, females 36-59 kg.
Color: black, slight gray hair allowed.
- Coat: Quite coarse and thick as standard. Light curls are allowed in the back, sides and chest. On the face and head there are straight strands of decorative hair, forming a mustache and beard. The undercoat is soft and dense.
- Head: massive, slightly elongated (slightly more than 40% of the height of the withers), tapering towards the nose.
- Brow ridges: pronounced, smooth cheekbones.
- Love: wide and flat, the transition to the muzzle is noticeable, but not sharp.
- Muzzle: slightly heavy, in profile – close to a square (the mustache and beard give this shape).
- Lips: tightly closed (without drooping jowls), nose – large, rounded.
- Ears: set high, adjacent to the cheekbones (shaped “envelope-triangle”), without folds or creases.
- Eyes: dark in color, set wide apart.
- Eyelids: dry, dense, without folds.
- Teeth: large, white, tightly adjacent to each other. The bite is scissor-shaped, the incisors are located on the same line.
- Neck: Medium length, muscular and strong. The transition from the body line to the neck is smooth, at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Body: slightly elongated or square format. The belly is tucked, the chest is wide, oval, the withers rise above the line of the sacrum by 2 cm.
- Back: smooth, strong, muscular, without arching in the middle.
- Loin: short, slightly convex.
- Tail: docked in puppies, set high.
- Forelegs: powerful, medium length, parallel. The line of the shoulder blades runs at an angle of 45 degrees, the forearms are set vertically, strictly parallel to each other, the elbows are directed back.
- Pasterns: massive, large, short.
- Hind legs: parallel, set slightly wider than the forelimbs. The hock joints are well defined. Femurs and the lower legs are long, located obliquely, the metatarsus are vertical, compactly collected.
History of the breed
The history of the breed began in the 30s of the last century. , and, who at that time served in the army and troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, were not sufficiently adapted to the harsh climate and daily stress.
The dog handlers were faced with the task of breeding a guard dog with a sensitive sense of smell, obedience, and the ability for general training, search and protective guard service.
The work plan was drawn up at the Krasnaya Zvezda nursery, under the leadership of General G. Medvedev.
The official name was invented at the first stage of work (black terrier), but among themselves scientists called the breed "Stalin's dog".
17 breeds were selected for crossing, among them the main role was given to German Shepherd, Giant Schnauzer, and . At the first stage (1951-1952), schnauzers and Airedales were crossed, but the standard qualities of the breed were not inherited. The puppies turned out to be of different colors and did not meet the given characteristics. For the second stage, the strongest and most beautiful dogs, which were crossed with each other. Subsequently, we began to improve the performance and exterior.
At the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition in 1955, a new breed was recognized. At the Moscow exhibition of working and hunting dogs, held in 1957, 43 black terriers were presented.
In 1975, the “darlings” were brought to an international exhibition in Budapest. Unexpectedly, the breed created a sensation. The judges appreciated the beauty of the physique and the seasoned character of the terrier. It took another six years before official recognition by the FCI, and in 1993 the official standards and description of the exterior were published.
Features that all dog handlers note are balance of character and correct security reaction. Available service units and army units received a dog that was distrustful and strong, disciplined and restrained. Fearlessness was inherited from Airedale Terriers, the ability to swim - from, and to protect the territory and the owner - from Giant Schnauzers and Caucasian Shepherds.
Character and temperament
The Black Terrier is a loyal, friendly dog. family members. Mistrust and justified aggression towards to strangers- traits common to all representatives of this breed.
- Like all terriers, the blackie loves to play with objects (ball, stick), preferring to communicate with the owner.
- He is aggressive towards other dogs.
- While running, it develops high speed.
- I am ready to walk at any time, for a long time, without getting tired.
- Appetite is excellent, unpretentious in food.
The Black Terrier is an animal of exceptional strength. Not suitable for apartment living, especially in the central part of the city, where there are no conditions for free walking.
Ideal conditions for keeping - aviary or an extension in a private house, where you can let the dog out into the yard, and it is possible to take walks outside the fenced property. Walk the terriers at least twice a day for an hour. Puppies should be walked 5-6 times a day.
To protect furniture and personal belongings, you need to purchase toys that arouse interest and take long walks. Don't be afraid - the puppy will not get overtired, because terriers rely on their own strength. If you see that your pet has sat down in the middle of the road and does not come on command, it means he is tired or has injured his paw.
Dog tolerates frost well, but does not feel well in hot weather. It is not recommended to have blackies in the southern lowland regions. Short trimming, allowed in the summer season, does not save blackies from the heat. The dog refuses to walk, becomes lethargic, and in severe cases, kidney failure develops.
The diet is the same as that of all service dogs (feed 2 times a day), but calculated based on body weight - that is, slightly more than that of shepherds and Dobermans. Feeding with premium dry food is allowed. You can take it as a basis.
Bathing, combing and cutting – quite complex procedures. Dogs are bathed before shows and before each trimming, and brushed every day. You need to be prepared for the fact that dogs behave nervously during grooming, and gradually get used to it.
Choosing a nickname
Nicknames for males: Thunder, Rocky, Caesar, Greg, Zhora, Cupid, Batu.
Nicknames for bitches: Naida, Vita, Hera, Zeya, Kama, Zosya, Mira.
Raising and training a dog
Pay due attention to education. It's better if you exercise with your pet themselves, under the guidance of an instructor. Next to its beloved owner, the terrier feels protected, which gives the dog confidence.
Home friend needs early training, instilling obedience. Even men cannot hold a black terrier on a leash, the jerks and movements of adult dogs are so powerful.
Be sure to train your dog to wear a muzzle - this will save you from problems during meetings with people who are afraid of dogs (there are many of them!).
Swimming is a great warm-up for service dog. Don't miss the opportunity to bathe your terrier in open water.
Health and life expectancy
Life expectancy at good care – 12-14 years old.
The Black Terrier is a dog with good health, but for the correct formation of the skeleton and muscle mass must be ensured diet with a predominance of meat products.
With an unbalanced diet, it appears skin allergy , negative reactions from the liver and pancreas.
According to statistics, black terriers are more likely than other breeds to suffer from dysplasia hip or elbow joint. If a joint defect is detected, consult a doctor immediately. The radical method of treatment is operative surgery. The operation is expensive, but it makes it possible to restore the dog to health.
Jogging on the ground prevents the development of such a common defect as bringing the hocks together.
Genetic malfunctions that manifest themselves in autoimmune diseases , are associated with frequent inbreeding. Carefully study the degree of relationship between individuals in the pedigree to avoid buying a puppy with poor health.
How much does it cost and where to buy
Black Terrier kennels are located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Krasnodar. The breed is popular in Germany and Slovakia - today representatives of Russian terriers of foreign origin are brought to Russia. The exterior and performance qualities of foreigners are no better than those of domestic blackies, although the cost is higher.
Average puppy price: 70 thousand rubles
Pedigree is the main factor in determining cost, although it often happens that puppies from elite parents do not have such outstanding qualities. Before you buy a puppy, find out how seriously the work in the nursery is carried out, which representatives of the breed are allowed to crossbreed, how many exhibitions they attend and what places the dogs occupy.
Instructions for breeders of Black Russian Terriers
What is needed to raise a healthy, balanced, obedient dog that will bring joy in communication?
The Black Russian Terrier is a dog of decent size with a very serious, but at the same time very impressive appearance. Such a pet attracts admiring glances, but it is extremely difficult to understand what is on his mind, since his eyes are hidden behind his fur. For what purpose were these large, beautiful animals bred, and what is their role today?
The appearance of the Russian Black Terrier is unique, although it contains features of other popular breeds - Airedale Terriers, Schnauzers, Rottweilers, etc. And this is not just a similarity, since it is the blood of these breeds that flows in the veins of Stalin’s dog.
In the 40s of the 20th century, one of the Soviet nurseries “Red Star” received an assignment from the government to breed a service and guard dog breed that has a number of essential qualities. The dog had to have high intelligence, excellent physical characteristics, a decisive disposition and high performance in any climatic conditions. Based on the requirements, the breeders received a black terrier - an athlete with a strong, muscular body, alert and hardy. The main task of these dogs was to protect military, including secret, objects.
Today, representatives of this breed have significantly expanded their functions and gained popularity, even outside their homeland.
Description of the black terrier breed
The Black Terrier is a tall, large dog with strong bones and well-developed muscles. Their body is tightly covered with skin that does not form folds or sag. This dog has a natural viciousness and mistrust, can live in any climate and is highly trainable.
If we talk about the constitution, it is strong and tough. Looseness and underdeveloped muscles are disadvantages. Height males vary from 66 to 72 cm, females are not much behind - from 64 to 70 cm. However, males are distinguished by a more powerful physique and massiveness.
The dog has a balanced temperament, it is agile and has a well-developed defensive reaction. If the dog is timid or overly excitable, then this is considered a serious fault. According to the standard, pets look like this:
- Head in terriers it is wide, but moderately, with a flattened forehead and a pronounced transition from forehead to muzzle, but without sharpness. Thanks to the decorative hair, the muzzle has a square format. The ears are small in size, located quite high, hanging on cartilage. Eyes medium-sized, oval with a dark iris.
- The jaws are powerful, with a full row of teeth forming a scissor bite.
- The neck is powerful, rib cage deep, ribs slightly convex. The withers are clearly defined, back wide, merging into a short, strong, slightly convex loin. Tail thick, set high, docked, leaving 3-4 vertebrae.
- Dogs have straight forelimbs located parallel to each other. The hindquarters are also straight, with muscular, well-developed thighs, but set slightly wider than the front ones. Paws collected in a strong lump, they are round.
The black terrier moves freely, smoothly, easily - at a short trot or gallop. In 1994, a separate standard of the Russian Federation for service dog breeding was adopted, according to which the upper height limit for dogs of this breed was abolished. After all, previously large, harmoniously built, handsome terriers were not allowed for breeding because their growth was fixed by the standard from Mexico City.
Coat and colors
The coat of black terriers is hard, abundant, with a dense undercoat. The length of the outer coat is 5-10 cm, it is thick, has a “wave”, the undercoat is much shorter. Dogs of this breed have pronounced decorative hair that forms eyebrows, mustaches and beards. The neck and withers are covered with a “mane”.
There are two colors of the Black Russian Terrier - solid black and black with graying. In the latter case, there is a condition - gray wool should cover no more than 1/3 of the entire body.
It will be interesting:
Character of Stalin's dog
The character of dogs of this breed is associated with their purpose - service. They have protective and protective qualities in their blood. But if most often watchdogs show aggression and attack uninvited guests, then the black terrier has its own tactics. He is more of a partisan and is used to defending rather than attacking. The dog will not suddenly fly out towards you, he will watch carefully, and when the intruder of the territory begins to approach, he will attack.
The black terrier is designed to protect not only the territory, but also the person. He quickly becomes excited if a threat arises, but as soon as it disappears, the dog instantly calms down.
From the very moment the breed appeared, its representatives established close contact with the owner and were infinitely devoted to him. They are too attached to people, so it is not recommended to leave the black terrier alone for a long time. If left alone for a long time, the dog will become too attached to the territory that even the owner who enters its boundaries will be considered a threat. 
But with normal relationships and upbringing, the “darling” is an ideal watchman. He will only voice if there is a reason for it. Possessing high intelligence and excellent reliability, he is used to pleasing his owner, calm and balanced. But sometimes puppies of this breed show curiosity and their research activities can cause damage to property. In this case, it is worth considering that raising a black terrier requires a firm hand; the owner must outline the boundaries - what is possible and what is not. If this is not done, then the behavior of an adult, large pet will subsequently be almost impossible to change.
Stalin's dogs, at any age, remain active and playful. They love children infinitely and are always happy to spend time with them, playing and being indulged. Despite its impressive dimensions, the dog treats little ones carefully and tenderly, which is due to their seasoned and balanced temperament. The pet allows its little owner almost everything, and even tugging at the whiskers will not be a reason for dissatisfaction. Black terriers often choose a doorway in a nursery or near a crib as a place to sleep at night, carefully guarding the child.
Terriers need physical exercise, and future owners should take into account that they will have to walk a lot with their four-legged friend. The rest of the time, the dog doesn’t mind relaxing with his family, and if the owners allow, he can sit on the sofa.
During walks, the owner of the “blackie” should always be nearby and it is advisable to keep the dog on a leash in crowded places. Although terriers are not prone to sudden aggression or flight, their menacing appearance can frighten not only children, but even adults.
How to raise and train a pet?
Like all dogs of impressive size, black terriers require socialization and training. And professional dog handlers recommend starting this process as early as possible, without waiting for a small lump to turn into a formidable giant. Early socialization will help avoid possible difficulties in the future.
Given its innate aggression, it is necessary to teach the dog to react more adequately to newly arrived people. For these purposes, the puppy must learn a number of basic commands. In the process, the owner will need tact and patience; the dog must learn to follow commands the first time and without being distracted by external stimuli.
When enrolling in preparatory courses, you can choose them with a black terrier, since he is able to cope with various activities:
- guard duty;
- Russian ring;
- protective guard service.
For a companion dog, you can limit yourself to a general training course, and then attend “city dog” training. In addition, with specialized training, the black terrier is capable of tracking. In this case, the pet will become an excellent assistant during the hunt.
Puppies and adults of the breed are very hardworking and can endure enormous physical exercise. And these qualities contribute to the fact that dogs of this breed are successful in sports competitions.
A general training course makes the dog more understandable and flexible, however, owners should not forget about their purpose. If a dog exhibits leadership qualities, is not too obedient and perceives the owner as a leader, it is necessary to seek professional help as soon as possible - it is very difficult to correct the behavior of an adult black terrier.
Good to know:
How to care for a black terrier?
The Black Russian Terrier is not that easy to care for, especially with its long, thick coat. The pet must be cleaned and combed every 3-4 days, to make the procedure easier, you can use a special conditioner. To eliminate the risk of developing otitis media, it is recommended to regularly trim the hairs from the ears. The same should be done with the hair that grows on the paw pads, since here it often gets tangled and tangled.
Representatives of this breed shed, but only slightly, so brushing also helps rid your pet of dead hairs. Your dog's teeth and eyes need care. Black terriers need regular bathing, and this should be done at least once a month. But you should not wash your dog more often, as this can cause dry skin. 
After the bath, you need to wait until your pet's fur is completely dry and start combing. In addition, black terriers require professional grooming. It allows dogs to look beautiful and well-groomed. You can walk with a Black Russian Terrier at any time of the year, regardless of weather conditions. They love to wallow in snowdrifts, and in the summer they are drawn to cool off in ponds.
If the dog is kept in an apartment, then you need to take it outside as often as possible, take long walks, visit special areas and places where the dog can run without a leash.
Features of feeding
A black terrier puppy is fed 4 times a day for up to six months, and then transferred to 2 feedings a day. As with other representatives of large breeds, it is important for puppies to receive adequate nutrition during intensive growth. The dog's diet should contain 50% protein food, 40% carbohydrates and 10% vegetable fats. The pet should receive dairy products regularly - every day in one feeding. In addition to meat, you can give your dog boiled offal, but only after 6 months.
The menu of an adult black terrier should include more protein, especially in warm climates. The meat part together with offal should be 2/3 daily norm, the remaining 1/3 is cereals and vegetables - raw or boiled. Kefir, yogurt, cottage cheese, and natural yogurt can be given to your dog throughout its life.
There is another option for feeding dogs of this breed -. Since terriers are not prone to allergies, it is quite easy for them to choose the right food. But it is important to select a quality product suitable for large breeds.
Photo of a black terrier
Video about black terrier
Cost of a black terrier puppy
Today, black terriers can be found throughout the country and in other countries, so finding a puppy will not be difficult. Prices for dogs of this breed vary:
- 8000-10000 rubles - such a cost should be alarming, since this is a dog without a pedigree, and no one will give a guarantee of the purity of the blood; and besides, there is a risk of acquiring a sick animal - and this either means long-term expensive treatment or the quick death of the baby.
- 10,000-15,000 rubles – this price category most often includes puppies that are a breeding stock. Documents are not issued for such dogs, although they may be purebred. But you can also buy a mestizo, especially if you buy from a private person.
- 15,000-18,000 is the cost of a puppy that has minor deviations from the standard. The dog may have a pedigree, but it will not be accepted for breeding or exhibition. But here there is already a guarantee that the dog will look like a real black terrier.
- 20,000-25,000 rubles - at this price you can buy a good puppy suitable for breeding.
- from 30,000 rubles - the starting price of show-class puppies, handsome dogs with whom you can participate in exhibitions; they are certainly enviable brides and grooms, since in addition to their own successes, they have titled parents.
The Black Russian Terrier is a huge, beautiful dog with a difficult character. First of all, this is a working dog with developed instincts; in any conditions it remains a formidable guard and vigilant watchman. Therefore, the pet needs special training, strict education and a strong hand from the owner. Only in this case can a four-legged friend become an excellent companion, protecting his family and participating in all matters.
Black Terrier Kennels
- Moscow region http://www.zolotoy-grad.ru/index.php
- St. Petersburg http://www.nordpride.ru
- Kyiv http://brtagent007.com
Which was bred by dog handlers from the times of the USSR. This was a great achievement at that time. The breed combines fourteen breeds, and from each it has taken the best qualities that have been preserved to our time. The dog was created by order of Stalin, which is why it is often called Stalin's Russian Terrier.
Joseph Vissarionovich demanded to breed a special breed that would have: great strength, tirelessness, increased performance, powerful and strong, and most importantly, serve in absolutely any weather conditions. They succeeded 100%.
Breed characteristics and character
The character included: courage, bravery, strength, observation and all the traits that the best guards have. They are very easy to train, they learn quickly and are loyal to their owner. Black Terrier puppies need early acquaintance with people, they need to be early age socialize and establish contact with the owner and family members.
The four-legged friend is very lively, confident in himself and his abilities, cheerful, does not have the slightest fear and wants to dominate. But, with a strong, strong-willed, confident and decisive owner, the dog gives the role of the main one to him. The owner must raise such a dog with equal severity and affection.
In addition, they are smart, very friendly, love children, constantly play with them, and will never harm them. They are wonderful as guards, you can confidently trust him with the safety of your child, he always stands up for him. Loyalty is also a character trait that is inherent in the terrier, but for this, a person must earn respect and love from the animal.
Breed Features:
- they practically do not shed;
- consist of good relations with other pets, but sometimes they can show their dominant character;
- It's not scary at all with him. This brave dog will protect you in any situation;
- the pet perfectly protects the house in which it lives;
- It is not recommended to put the dog on a chain;
- When walking, be sure to wear a muzzle and a leash;
- quickly and without problems adapts to new climatic conditions.
Breed standard
In the photo there is a Russian black terrier looks courageous. They have a well-built athletic body structure and a strong skeletal system. The height of the male is 76 centimeters, and the female is 72 cm, weight, respectively, 55-65 kg and 45-55 kg. But it is quite possible that they are often found and are much larger individuals.
The head is quite proportional to the body, it is massive and large. Has a slightly elongated shape. The forehead is wide and flat. The muzzle is wide, tapering slightly towards the nose. The nose must be black and large.
The lips fit tightly to the jaws, the teeth are not visible, they are black in color and have pronounced pigmentation. The teeth are powerful, strong and even. According to the standard, there are 42 of them, with a scissor bite.
The eyes resemble an oval shape and are set deep. Always have dark color, surrounded by dark ages. The inner lower corner of the eye is located slightly lower than the upper outer corner.
This pet's ears are triangular in shape. They are medium in size, composed largely of cartilage, and hang forward. The neck is equal to the size of the head, strong and strong. Powerful and perfectly balanced muscular body. The athletic build of the wide chest extends into a powerful torso.
The back is strong and wide. Fine toned stomach and a short but strong loin. The tail is generally docked at birth. If the tail is not cut, it is shaped like a sickle.
Dense undercoat. The entire body is covered with very thick, long and coarse hair. These dogs have mustaches, beards and eyebrows. Legs are straight, strong, with strong joints and bones. The color of the animal, according to the standard, is only black. An admixture of gray is allowed, but in small quantities.
Care and maintenance
Black Russian Terrier dog quite large in size and requires a lot of personal space. In this regard, it will be much more convenient for her, and for the owner, if she is placed outside. You can equip a large and comfortable enclosure for your pet. Of course, such a great four-legged friend requires care.
The following procedures must be carried out:
- wool. It needs to be combed regularly with a medium-hard comb and its coat washed. Dogs don’t really like such events; they resist them. Therefore, it is necessary to accustom the puppy to hygiene from early childhood so that he gets used to it.
Pets need regular trimming. Haircuts begin at 6 months of age. For help, it is better to contact a specialist who will properly trim the terrier’s coat;
- The dog needs to be bathed once every 14 days. Afterwards, dry the dog well with a towel and let it dry on its own. It is not recommended to use a hair dryer; if exposed to a hot air stream, the wool will lose its luster, shine and become dull;
- There is no need to scratch a wet pet; use a comb only on dry fur;
- the terrier's eyes and ears need periodic inspection and cleaning with a damp cotton swab;
- You need to brush your pet's teeth. This is done several times a week using special toothpastes for dogs. You can also add solid foods to your food to prevent the formation of tartar;
- claws are cut once every two months. After every walk you need to inspect your friend's paws. There should be no cracks, scratches, or skidding. It is recommended to carefully cut out the wool between the pads with your finger. It can form lumps and cause discomfort when walking.
Nutrition
Judging by description of the Russian black terrier, it is already clear that he needs to eat well and fully. The dog is not particularly picky about food; he eats almost everything. But you need to know what you can and what you should not give to your pet.
There is an option like feeding dry food. This food contains all the vitamins and minerals, well-balanced fats-proteins-carbohydrates, and contains absolutely everything that is necessary for the full health of such a huge pet.
Many owners still prefer to feed their pets natural products. This, of course, is more expensive in terms of finances and takes much more time, but is the key to lasting health for the terrier, good condition of bones, teeth and coat.
A pet needs meat, but it should not be the main product. It is recommended to feed the dog lean lamb, beef, and veal every other day. You can also have turkey, rabbit and chicken. The meat is boiled and served raw.
The main product may be sea fish. It should have low fat content, be without bones and with fins and tail removed (the dog can injure its mucous membrane oral cavity and alimentary tract). Fish contains many useful substances - iodine, calcium, phosphorus, which are important for the health of the pet.
Raw and cooked seasonal vegetables are often added to meat. Basically, all individuals of this breed enjoy eating them. Experts strongly recommend adding a clove of garlic to prepared dishes from time to time. She will serve an excellent remedy for prevention against all types of helminths.
Also, the dog needs cottage cheese, kefir and milk. They love buckwheat, rice and oatmeal. It is forbidden to give the terrier sweets, smoked foods, sausages, chocolate, fast food products.
It is not recommended to combine feeding dry food and natural food. Eat big risk that the dog’s stomach cannot cope with digestion. It must be provided with cool, fresh water in large quantities.
Possible diseases
If you decide buy black russian terrier, then you should know what you will gain with excellent health. Their hardened immunity, in the process of their creation and development, is very rarely influenced by any viruses, and provided that they have appropriate care and normal nutrition, the risk of disease is equal to zero.
Also, during childhood, the puppy needs all vaccinations in order to grow up healthy and vigorous. There are only a few diseases that have ever affected this breed:
- elbow dysplasia or hip joint. Basically, this disease is inherited. It is very important that the owner notices in time the first signs of the development of the disease - lameness. In such cases, you urgently need to consult a doctor, and subsequently undergo surgery to rid your pet of the disease forever;
- otitis media The disease occurs when the ear canals are poorly cared for. Dirt and sulfur accumulate there and arise inflammatory process;
— atrophy of the retina in a progressive form. The dog begins to go blind. It is too hereditary disease. Also, its development is influenced by the pet’s highly developed and heightened sense of smell and hearing.
Price
Black Russian Terrier price depends on the following criteria - the health of the puppy, pedigree, merits and awards of the parents, feeding method, breeder and mating.
10,000-12,000 rubles. For that amount you will buy either a very sick puppy, or a terrier that has already been mixed with several breeds, and only looks like the breed.
12-17 thousand rubles - this is how much a breed defect costs. Puppies without necessary documents, and it is almost impossible to prove their pedigree. There is a high probability of buying a mixture of a terrier and a simple mongrel.
17-20 thousand rubles - average quality of terriers. The pedigree is present, but the dogs are not used for procreation and for exhibitions.
20-25 thousand rubles. This is the price for an exhibition specimen, which has all the character traits of a Russian terrier. A purebred, beautiful and loyal dog will only delight you.
From 25,000 thousand rubles. In famous and very good Black Russian Terrier kennels, you can buy elite puppies. With it you will definitely conquer all the peaks and reach heights in competitions and exhibitions. The price for such a puppy can be up to 65 thousand rubles.
