The Black Russian Terrier: An Excellent Guard Dog
The Russian Black Terrier was developed by the Soviet government in the 1930s with the aim of protecting military camps in wartime, as well as patrolling prisons.
This breed was then born in Russia in a secret government settlement known as the Red Star Kennel, in the years leading up to the Second World War. Let’s find out in this article the Russian Black Terrier.
History of the Russian Black Terrier
The Soviet government needed a brave, intelligent and sturdy dog capable of controlling the country’s vast borders, protecting soldiers and preventing prisoners of war from escaping the Siberian gulags Stalin wanted.
Breeders then combined 17 breeds (including Rottweilers, Newfoundland and Airedale Terrier) to arrive at the Russian Black Terrier or BRT. The result was a dog with all the requisites: strength, courage and loyalty.
After the Second World War, the Russian Black Terrier entered the civilized world as a guard dog. The breed was officially recognized by the Soviet Ministry of Agriculture in 1981 and in 2004 by the American Kennel Club.
Current claims
Although it is a breed with a dangerous past, today it is totally dedicated to the family and the protection of children. It is a quiet disposition dog. When not on “duty”, he is playful and affectionate.
In addition, this dog is also alert and courageous, always alert to any dangers. Given his innate distrust of strangers, his socialization becomes fundamental.
The Russian Black Terrier must learn from an early age that most people and other dogs are not a threat, otherwise they may be difficult to handle.
It is also an intelligent dog with a great need for physical and mental activity to feel satisfied. If he doesn’t keep busy, he can develop negative habits.
Characteristics of the Russian Black Terrier
The Russian Black Terrier has a double-layered and very sturdy black coat. The outer layer is wavy and varies in length between 5 and 15 centimeters, while the inner one is soft and thick.
This breed has an excess of hair on the head and muzzle, a thick mustache and beard, and hair that, if left untrimmed, falls over the eyes. Its coat tends to thin out sinuously highlighting its silhouette.
Attentions
The black Russian Terrier is considered part of the family to all intents and purposes and needs to live surrounded by his affection. Your “hand” towards the race must be firm and decisive, so as not to give it the conviction that it is the master of the house. This dog also loses little hair and is therefore not difficult to manage in the home.
Outdoors, he needs space to exercise and train on a daily basis, without worrying about other dogs or the presence of strangers. It is important that the yard is safe and that your Terrier does not remain alone for too long, as he could escape and therefore pose a danger to himself and others.
This dog needs at least an hour of daily exercise to stay healthy. Canine sport and agility training are essential practices for this breed; this helps her to feel important and courageous for her family.
The Russian Black Terrier is able to endure and hold attention for a long time, and can therefore withstand intense training sessions. If well trained, it is an excellent walking companion, as it can easily endure half-day or full-day long walks.
Feeding of the Russian Black Terrier
In general, this breed requires 3 to 5 bowls of excellent quality dry food every day. However, the ration may vary depending on the amount of physical activity performed or the age of your specimen. Talk to your vet to find out the optimal diet and amount of food your Black Russian Terrier needs.
Time in solitude
The Russian black terrier does not like to spend time alone. In fact, he needs to work rather than do nothing.
If you are considering purchasing this dog, first make sure there is always a family member willing to spend time with him. By being alone he can develop destructive and dangerous behaviors, such as excessive barking, biting or chewing what he finds in his path.
Common health problem
The Russian Black Terrier has some breed-specific health issues:
- Dysplasia in the hip or elbow.
- Sudden retinal atrophy syndrome.
- Dwarfism.
- Stones of the urinary tract.
You can reduce any health problems by using the services of a trainer, who can dedicate himself to the prevention of common diseases and ailments.
