Black Russian Terrier

ORIGIN / PATRONAGE

Russia

BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY

The Russian Black Terrier was created in Russia during the late 1940s and the early 1950s by selective interbreeding of breeds like the Rottweiler, Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier and Newfoundland Dog. The Giant Schnauzer is considered to be the main ancestor of the breed. The initial breeding was supervised by the military cynological school outside Moscow and the dogs were based in their kennels named “Red Star”. The aim of the creators of the breed was the development of a large, brave, strong and manageable working dog with pronounced guarding instinct; a dog which could be useful for many services and adapts well to various climate conditions. The breed was recognized by the FCI in 1984.

GENERAL APPEARANCE

The Russian Black Terrier is a large dog with a slightly long body and very athletic built of a robust type and hardy constitution. The breed has qualities like massive bone and powerful muscles. It is symmetrical with a large head and compact body and a voluminous and deep chest. Differences between the sexes to be clearly defined.

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desired height at the withers:
Males: 72 - 76 cms. but no less than 70 cms. and not more than 78 cms.
Females: 68 - 72 cms. but no less than 66 cms. and not more than 74 cms.
Slightly taller specimens are tolerated providing they are proportionate and of excellent breed type.

Weight:
Males: 50 – 60 kgs. Females: 45 – 50 kgs.