Russian Black Terrier

Always seen in black; sometimes with a hint of grey

They have long hair.

The Russian Black has a rugged thick double coat comprising a coarse wavy top coat and soft, dense undercoat.

Dark, almost black

A large, athletic dog; muscular and stocky. The chest of the dog is low; the tail is thick and set high, carried outwards and up but not touching the back.

The Russian Black is an extremely affectionate and loyal dog; it quickly develops a close bond with its owner.

The Russian Black considers hard work its true calling but occasionally will spend time with the family and is patient with small children.

This is a calm and self-assured dog.

The Russian Black is incredibly intelligent but tends to get bored easily.

Although bred to protect and guard, the Russian Black is also a good hunter.

The Russian Black may appear aloof and reserved with strangers. Time is needed to allow the dog to assimilate new faces.

A thoroughly independent dog, the Russian Black was bred to work by itself.

It is an independent dog which allows him to stay alone and be absolutely fine with it.

This is not an easy dog to train, and its training must be varied, consistent and carried out in a confident manner. The Russian Black loves to work and to please its owner.

This is not a dog that barks excessively.

The Russian Black is a dog that does not require to be reminded about outdoor etiquette. An owner may discover that the dog naturally wants to stay by their side while on a walk.

Like any dog left alone for long periods of time or not given the attention and love it deserves, the Russian Black will develop antisocial behaviours.

Russian Blacks vary from dog to dog in their eating habits. Some are very particular eaters and can become sick easily by new foods or foods that are marginally out of date. However, others of the breed are capable of eating themselves into obesity.

The Russian Black was bred to be a sentry dog. It is exceptionally alert and will let its owner know when someone is approaching the house.

Not the easiest first dog to have and certainly one to avoid if you have small children. The adult Black weighs about the same as a 15-year-old boy. If you are an inexperienced dog owner you should opt for a dog that is more manageable.

This is not a good dog for a flat due to its size. The Russian Black requires a large, fenced garden in which it can explore and run around. This dog will thrive in a rural setting.

The Russian Black should ideally be walked for at least 90 minutes every day.

It is difficult to travel with a Russian Black Terrier. However, once trained, a Russian Black is exceptionally obedient.

Although the Russian Black is not known for its intense prey drive, it will consider cats fair game to be chased.

Early socialisation is necessary for this dog to develop good dog codes. Otherwise, it may tend to be aggressive.

This is not the best companion for children. He is trustworthy but does not particularly appreciate their presence.

Because it is a large dog that requires exercise and interaction, the Russian Black may not be the perfect choice of dog for some people of senior years.

Shedding is moderate.

10 to 12 years

This dog is not troubled by hard work, harsh weather or boisterous play.

The Russian Black will not tolerate hot weather. Its thick coat causes the dog to be particularly unhappy during the summer months.

The coat of the Russian Black keeps the dog warm even in the snow.

The Russian Black is as prone to weight gain as any other dog. Avoid giving this dog any food designed for human consumption.

• Elbow Dysplasia 
• Hip Dysplasia 
• Hyperuricosuria 
• Polyneuropathy 

The Russian Black is thought to have come about following mixes of Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, Rottweiler and Moscow Water Dog. It was developed in the 1940s by the Soviet Army and put to use as a sentry dog. Its traits (large, brave, strong and manageable) perfectly suited its use.