Black Russian Terrier

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Black Russian Terriers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and dwarfism. Genetic testing can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

Black Russian Terriers are known for their courage, confidence, and intelligence. They are highly trainable, yet can be independent thinkers. They are protective and deeply loyal to their families, which makes them excellent guard dogs. However, they require extensive socialization from an early age due to their protective nature. This is a breed that thrives on mental and physical challenges. They're good with children and can be friendly towards strangers, provided they've been well-socialized.

However, owning a BRT requires commitment and responsibility, as these dogs need a lot of exercise, training, and socialization to be well-adjusted and happy. They also need regular grooming due to their thick, waterproof double coat.

Herding Dog Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Herding dogs are known for their high intelligence, trainability, and strong work ethic. These breeds originated in areas where managing livestock was an important part of daily life and had large pastoral lands. These breeds were specifically developed to help farmers and shepherds move, manage, and protect herds of livestock. Breeds within the herding dog lineage are agile and are known to have a natural herding instinct, where they like to keep their animals together. They are loyal and attentive to their handlers and are eager to please and are also highly aware of their environment. Many breeds within this linage have gone on to work as rescue and police dogs.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Border Collie, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, and German Shepherd.

Fun Facts

The Black Russian was developed through selective interbreeding by the Russian military of many breeds including Rottweilers, Giant Schnauzers, and Airedale Terriers.

References

https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_black_russian_terrier

Willis, M.B. (2012). The Black Russian Terrier. In The World Encyclopedia of Dogs (pp. 232-234). London: Octopus Books.

American Kennel Club. (2021). Black Russian Terrier Dog Breed Information. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/black-russian-terrier/

Coile, D.C. (2005). Black Russian Terriers. In Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds (pp. 78-79). Hauppauge, NY: Barron's Educational Series.

Federation Cynologique Internationale. (2023). FCI breeds nomenclature: Black Russian Terrier. Retrieved from http://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/BLACK-RUSSIAN-TERRIER-327.html

Hardman, L., & Walkowicz, C. (2003). Black Russian Terrier: A Comprehensive Owner's Guide (Kennel Club Books). Allenhurst, NJ: Kennel Club Books.