Black Terrier

Breed Description

One of the largest dog breeds developed in the territory of the USSR, the Black Terrier is considered a model of resilience and is capable of living in the harshest conditions. There is a belief that the breed was created at the direct order of I.V. Stalin, though no documented proof has been released yet.

Having first appeared shortly after the end of World War II, Black Terriers were introduced as a guard dog breed. At the same time, their uniqueness was highlighted, as besides their primary purpose, these giant dogs proved to be remarkable family pets with entirely peaceful and non-aggressive temperaments.

The use of Black Terriers was quickly discovered: law enforcement agencies showed interest, adopting them as excellent service dogs. They were employed not only for guarding prisons but also major secret facilities.

Such outstanding breeds as the Rottweiler, Riesen Schnauzer, and about 15 other breeds contributed to the formation of the Black Terrier. The selection process was so meticulous that around ten years lapsed between the birth of the first puppy and its final presentation to the public.

In the mid-1950s, Moscow audiences witnessed the Black Terrier for the first time. Three years later, in 1958, the first breed standard was adopted. From that point on, it became possible to buy a puppy from a kennel, leading dog breeders across our vast country to establish kennels in many cities of the USSR.

Meanwhile, the international cynological association only recognized our standard and acknowledged the Black Terrier as an independent breed in 1984. Today, the large black dog is more in demand than ever, with the cost of a purebred puppy potentially exceeding 50,000 rubles. However, not every dog owner is advised to adopt one as a pet. This is due to the fact that the Black Terrier, often referred to as the Russian Black Terrier, is a very serious dog with a steely character. Moreover, its considerable size may be challenging for an unprepared owner to manage. It is worth noting that the Black Terrier significantly surpasses similar foreign breeds in its working characteristics.

Appearance

The Black Terrier is considered a unique breed developed in the USSR. Combining the blood of 17 different breeds, its large and rugged appearance closely resembles that of a shaggy Rottweiler. The Black Terrier has bushy eyebrows, an impressive beard, and adult males can stand over 70 cm tall, weighing more than 50 kilograms. Females are slightly shorter: their height is around 70 cm with a weight in the range of 45 to 50 kg. They are very active and faithfully serve their owners for 12 to 14 years. Notably, these dimensions can exceed the average, with increases of several centimeters in height and approximately 3 to 5 kg in weight.

It has been noted that individuals resembling German Schnauzers are not allowed for further breeding. The coat of the Black Terrier differs tactilely from that of the Rottweiler, further highlighting the uniqueness of this Soviet dog. One cannot overlook the distinctive character of these beauties. Powerful yet not aggressive, very athletic and agile, they embody not just confidence but also loyalty and care. Perhaps as stern as they appear, they can radiate kindness towards their loved ones. Additionally, their ability to befriend cats-often known as the fiercest adversaries of all dogs-is truly impressive.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The slightly rounded skull is proportional to the overall size of the dog. There is a noticeable flat area between the ears, and the forehead is also flattened. The bridge of the nose is almost on the same plane as the top of the head. The brow ridges are hidden under bushy eyebrows.

Морда

Massive, with a very broad bridge of the nose. There is a noticeable slight narrowing of the bridge towards the nostrils. Thick black lips are pressed against the jaws. Characteristically, the tip of the nose is very large with wide nostrils. The tip can only be black. From the side, the muzzle resembles the shape of a brick.

Уши

Medium-sized, high-set. Usually droop, with a triangular shape and rounded tip. Overall, they appear small. They are folded about halfway down, and the inner part is pressed against the cheek. This fold distinguishes them from the typical "terrier" type.

Глаза

Not very large, closer to medium size. Olive-like shape, ideally hazel (dark brown) or almost black in color. The eyelids should fit tightly and also be colored black.

Зубы

Strong and very powerful jaws. The fangs are large and sharp. The upper row of teeth slightly overlaps the teeth of the lower jaw - this is known as a scissors bite. Any other bite type besides the one mentioned is unacceptable. On the lower jaw, the chin is concealed by a thick and fairly long beard.

Корпус

Large, massive, muscular, and quite tall body. The back is wide, straight, and very strong. The chest is very broad and deep, resembling that of a Riesen Schnauzer more than a Rottweiler. The croup is short with a slight slope, and the loin is strong and wide.

Конечности

Передние конечности с отведёнными назад лопатками, прямо и параллельно стоящие, с прижатыми к корпусу локтями. Уникальная способность передних лап в том, что при погоне собака обхватывает ими ноги убегающего и валит его грудью. Задние конечности с сильными бёдрами, при осмотре сбоку одна нога чуть впереди другой. Крупные подушечки лап со сводчатыми пальцами и черными когтями.

Хвост

There are two types: natural and docked. Originally, all tails were docked almost completely, with only a few vertebrae left. Currently, this requirement is not mandatory. Let's say the stance is quite high, and the tail is held up lively, but it is not curled in a ring behind the back.

Шерсть

It has a medium firmness structure, perfectly protects against bad weather, and possesses water-repellent properties. The thick, soft undercoat keeps warm during frosts. The coat is wavy, without curls, and noticeably longer at the bottom of the legs than on the rest of the body. Additionally, the significant beard and bushy eyebrows are a hallmark of the breed.

Окрас

Максимально чёрный считается идеальным окрасом и следует из названия породы. Вместе с тем, оттенки чёрного могут варьироваться и быть ближе к графитовому, или даже включать седину в небольшом количестве. Любой другой окрас, кроме указанных считается дефектом, такие собаки не допускаются к разведению.

Character

The temperament of the Black Terrier is often described as balanced, intelligent, devoted, and focused on protecting its owner’s territory and family. These dogs are very loyal to their owners and incredibly smart, making them excellent partners and companions. Buying a puppy from a kennel means not just getting a large dog, but also gaining a faithful friend for many years.

All Black Terriers have a high energy level and require serious physical exercise and mental stimulation. They usually excel in training and sports activities. It can be said with certainty that inexperienced dog owners will find it challenging to raise such a dog. Owners of Black Terriers should consider attending special canine courses, such as aggression management or protection training. Deviant behavior often manifests in dogs that are frequently left alone, rarely walked, or live in unfavorable conditions – this noticeably embittered their personalities.

Despite their fearsome appearance, Black Terriers are a breed that can develop good relationships with other pets. However, it is fair to note that, as with any dogs, early socialization is a key factor in shaping their interactions with other animals. A developed protective instinct may pose a threat to others if their behavior around other pets is not managed. Early and skilled socialization and training help reduce the risk of problems in the future. Properly introduced Black Terriers can establish good relationships with other pets if they are given enough opportunities for interaction and play. This applies even to cats and birds.

However, it is important to remember that the territorial instinct of the Black Terrier can affect its relationships with other dogs in the household. When introducing a new pet, it is recommended to conduct controlled meetings and gradual introductions to help the dogs get used to each other.

It is rare for Black Terriers to show aggression towards other pets, so it is advisable to encourage positive behavior when interacting with them and to focus on proper training from a young age. Notably, at Zooinika, you can find the best selection of kennels in Russia, so you can seek advice from breeders who are willing to share their experiences in raising Black Terriers.

Care and Maintenance

First of all, it should be noted that the Black Terrier is not suitable for living in a small urban apartment. This is a very large dog that requires significant physical activity and does not cope well with cramped living conditions. Before buying a puppy from a kennel, the future owner should consider not only the training and upbringing of their Black Terrier but also whether the dog will have enough space in the new home.

The long, wavy coat protects this wonderful guardian from freezing temperatures, so Black Terriers feel great in the enclosures of private homes. Of course, it makes sense to ensure the enclosure is heated. However, one should not treat the dog as if it were delicate. The breed was developed to work in the harshest weather conditions, so Black Terriers are genetically resilient to cold.

Grooming the Black Terrier’s coat helps maintain a more presentable appearance for the dog. A large black dog with matted fur is quite a sight, and it is better not to let it get to that point. Besides the visual aspect, such a coat may lose some of its natural properties: the ability to repel water and keep the dog warm in colder temperatures. Additionally, it is unpleasant for the owner to see fur shedding everywhere, which is difficult to remove from furniture or clothing. Usually, the fur is brushed out with special gloves or de-shedding tools, and in case of tangles, special combs for cutting mats are used.

Equally important in caring for a Black Terrier is its diet. A well-balanced diet helps maintain the dog’s weight, supports a healthy coat, and provides the necessary energy. The optimal choice is to feed high-quality super-premium or holistic prepared foods, which reduces the owner’s workload in terms of food preparation. Furthermore, there is no need for additional spending on vitamins since manufacturers include all the essential micro- and macronutrients according to the size, weight, and age of the dog. Black Terriers do not need frequent bathing, but in the case of heavy soiling, you can wash your dog with special dog shampoo. However, remember that frequent use of cleaning agents negatively affects the natural properties of the dog’s coat.

Special attention should be paid to dental hygiene. Teeth should be brushed at least once a week with special toothpaste and a brush that can be purchased at a pet store. Dogs that are fed commercial food are less prone to gum inflammation and dental problems since the dry food pellets have a cleaning effect when chewed. Nevertheless, additional cleaning should not be neglected. A special chewing bone can also be used for this purpose, which effectively cleans teeth and reduces the risk of tartar buildup.

Proper physical activity will keep your pet in shape and has a very positive effect on its psyche. To ensure your dog meets all the expectations placed on it, it makes sense to attend courses with professional dog trainers. Activities like agility training, playing frisbee, or participating in weight pulling competitions will help stabilize your big dog’s character.How does the Black Terrier relate to children? The answer to this question is simple: like its own! There is no more loyal dog, but it is very important to teach your children how to properly interact with such a formidable dog. It is not advisable to leave young children alone with it, as the Black Terrier is quite heavy and may unintentionally cause harm. Allowing an unprepared owner to walk the dog is also risky. Anything could happen, and the dog’s peaceful attitude towards household cats and dogs may not extend to animals encountered on the street, with all the resulting consequences.

Training and Education

One crucial aspect of caring for a Black Terrier is training, which ensures its well-being and the safety of those around. It’s important to start training at an early age and to use only positive reinforcement methods. You should prepare for this process even before selecting a puppy from a kennel. Here are some key points for properly training a Black Terrier.

One of the primary steps in training a Black Terrier is socialization. This involves introducing the puppy to different people, animals, and environments. Such early experiences help shape a confident and well-adjusted pet. However, be careful not to overwhelm the puppy, as fear in a young Black Terrier can negatively affect its psyche. Introductions should be gradual, supervised, and take into account the responses of all participants in the process.

Instead of punishment, owners should rely on positive reinforcement during training. This can include praise, treats, and playtime as rewards for correctly following commands. Try not to shout at the puppy and remain as calm as possible, as the Black Terrier is highly attuned to its owner’s emotions.

Consistency in training is vital. This means using the same commands for the same actions and responding to them in the same way each time.

Don’t hesitate to consult a professional dog trainer, especially if you lack experience in training dogs. Professionals can help you develop a specific training program tailored to the unique needs of your Black Terrier.

Remember that training is a process that requires time, patience, and consistency. Don’t forget to show love and care to your pet during the training process.Proper training of a Black Terrier will help it become a well-adjusted and happy pet, capable of peacefully interacting with its environment and serving as a loyal companion.

How to Choose a Puppy

The Black Terrier is considered a breed that should not be kept as a first pet. Such dogs are not suitable for inexperienced dog owners. Additionally, the place of acquisition is extremely important. A wise choice would be to buy a Black Terrier at Zooinika. It is the best selection of kennels in Russia, where breeders with a proven reputation can also assist with training and raising a Black Terrier puppy.

Potential owners should look for a dog trainer who can help with the socialization and training of the puppy after purchase. A legally formalized transaction guarantees the safety of all participants. It is necessary to conclude a sales contract that specifies the responsibilities of the parties. For example, if you decide to buy a puppy from a kennel in another city and can’t visit it in person. If, upon receiving the puppy, you discover health issues or deviations from accepted standards, you will have the opportunity to reimburse your expenses, return the puppy, or demand something else from the seller.

As for the puppy itself, like any other breed, it should be cheerful, curious, and active. Its eyes should be clear, ears free of discharge or unpleasant odors, its stomach should not be bloated or painful, and its nose should be cold and moist.

Of course, the veterinary passport should contain marks of all necessary vaccinations according to age, as well as dates and names of parasite medications. From the best kennels in the country – find your pet at Zooinika.

Health and Diseases

The health of the Black Terrier is generally not a concern. It is one of the few dog breeds that has virtually no serious genetic problems.

At the same time, the abundant beard and thick eyebrows carry certain risks. Partly because of this, conjunctivitis is common, and fungal skin diseases of the chin are often encountered.

For those who decide to choose a puppy from a kennel, it is advisable to request screening results for elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia (HD). Like many large dogs, such conditions can occur in Black Terriers, potentially jeopardizing their mobility in adulthood.

Elevated levels of uric acid in the blood can harm the dog’s muscles. Consequently, regular veterinary visits and strict adherence to their recommendations are necessary.

For inactive dogs, those that overeat, or Black Terriers that receive excessive care from their owners, weight gain can occur, leading to associated problems.

Ear inflammation and otitis are less common and mainly appear in animals that swim a lot due to water entering the ears. Owners should regularly check the inner part of their dogs’ ears for early signs of inflammation.