Russian Black Terrier

Other names : RBT, Blackies

The Russian Black Terrier is not a true terrier. In fact it is a mix of several breeds of terrier (including the Schnauzer and Airedale). It was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1940s and 50s and was put to work as a guard dog and sentry. Today the Russian Black is still a faithful utility dog, but its popularity as a companion is on the up.

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Life expectancy	The Russian Black Terrier has a life expectancy of between 10 and 12 years
Temperament	High prey drive
Size	Large
Adult size	Female Between 26 and 29 in Male Between 28 and 31 in
Adult weight	Female Between 77 and 99 lb Male Between 77 and 99 lb
Coat colour	Black
Type of coat	Long
Eye colour	Brown
Purchase price	The Russian Black Terrier costs between £1330 and £1560

Good to know

Russian Black Terriers always used to have their tails docked. The practice of tail docking is illegal in the UK but not in some other countries. Be vigilant of such signs of maltreatment if you are buying a Russian Black from overseas.

More details about the Russian Black Terrier

Russian Black Terrier: Origins and history

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.

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Physical characteristics of the Russian Black Terrier

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.

FCI classification of the Russian Black Terrier

Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
Section 1 : Pinscher and Schnauzer type

Russian Black Terrier: Characteristics

More or less affectionate

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

Moderately playful

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

More or less calm

This is a calm and self-assured dog.

Moderate intelligence

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

High prey drive

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

Fearful of strangers

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

Very independent

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

Russian Black Terrier: Behaviour

Tolerates being left alone

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

Not very easy to train

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.

Moderately vocal

This is not a dog that barks excessively.

Has a moderate tendency to run away

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.

Can be destructive

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.

Moderately food motivated

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.

Very good watchdog

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.

Training a Russian Black Terrier

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.

Russian Black Terrier: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

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.

Needs a lot of exercise

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

Difficult to travel with

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

Breed compatibility Russian Black Terrier

Not very compatible with cats

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

Not very compatible with other dogs

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

Not compatible with children

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

Not compatible with senior owners

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.

Not recommended for a first-time owner

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.

Russian Black Terrier: Purchase price

A KC Registered Russian Black Terrier will cost between £1330 to £1560. You’re also looking at between £100 and £160 per month to care for this dog.

Russian Black Terrier: Shedding

Average

Shedding is moderate.

Russian Black Terrier: Grooming

Brush the coat of the Russian Black at least once a week to prevent the coat from becoming tangled and messy. A long-pinned slicker brush appears to work well on this type of coat.