Working group · Russia
Black Russian Terrier
Also called Chornyi Terrier, BRT, Blackie, Stalin's Dog.
What makes them remarkable
Despite the name, this was a Soviet military project combining several breeds to create a large working dog.
- Confident
- Calm
- Brave
- Intelligent
- Protective
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 36 to 59 kg80 to 130 lb
- Lives
- 10 to 12 years
- Energy
- Moderate
- Trains
- High
- Barks
- Low
Training
Training a Black Russian Terrier
Working breeds. Calm structure beats force every time. These dogs shut down under pressure and thrive on predictability.
Highly Trainable
Start here
Bred for military work and eager to please. One of the most trainable large guardian breeds.
Needs a Job
Working dog through and through. Thrives with obedience, protection sports, or other activities.
Strong Bond with Handler
Forms extremely tight bond with owner. Consistent training from one primary handler works best.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Black Russian Terrier and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred to guard, pull and rescue. Big, strong, and serious about their people and their patch.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsModerate
- StrangersLow
- CatsModerate
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 1+ hour daily. Active breed needing regular walks and mental challenges.
- Grooming
- High maintenance. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Regular brushing to prevent matting.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Double coat, Coarse outer coat, Soft undercoatBlack, Black with Grey Hair
- In a flat
- Needs more space than a flat gives.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Hip Dysplasia
Moderate
Common in large breeds; screening essential
Elbow Dysplasia
Moderate
Joint malformation causing lameness
Hyperuricosuria
Moderate
Elevated uric acid levels causing bladder stones; genetic test available
Where they come from
History
Developed by the Soviet military after WWII from 17+ breeds including Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, and Airedale. Created at the Red Star Kennel to work as military and police dogs in the extreme Russian climate.
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