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 |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Large
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Adult size |
Female
Between 26 and 29 in
Male
Between 28 and 31 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 77 and 99 lb
Male
Between 77 and 99 lb
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Coat colour
Always seen in black; sometimes with a hint of grey |
Black
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Type of coat
They have long hair. The Russian Black has a rugged thick double coat comprising a coarse wavy top coat and soft, dense undercoat. |
Long
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Eye colour
Dark, almost black |
Brown
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Purchase price |
The Russian Black Terrier costs between £1330 and £1560 |
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.
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
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Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
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Section 1 : Pinscher and Schnauzer type
Russian Black Terrier: Characteristics
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.
Russian Black Terrier: Behaviour
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.
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
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.
Breed compatibility Russian Black Terrier
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.
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.
Russian Black Terrier: Health
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
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