Pet Wiki

Black Russian Terrier

Also called Russian Black Terrier, Russkiy Tchiorny Terrier, Tchornyi Terrier, BRT

A steady, self-assured guardian that stays composed in most situations and settles quickly after a moment of alertness.

SizeGiant
Weight45 to 60 kg (99 to 132 lb)males 50 to 60 kg, females 45 to 50 kg12
Height68 to 76 cm (27 to 30 in)males 72 to 76 cm, females 68 to 72 cm13
Lifespan10 to 12 years23
CoatRough, thick double coat
OriginSoviet Union (Russia), created at the state-run Red Star (Krasnaya Zvezda) kennel near Moscow in the late 1940s and early 1950s.13
GroupFCI group 2
Recognised breedShort profile
confident and courageous
calm and self-controlled
trainable and hard-working
14

Personality what they are like

A steady, self-assured guardian that stays composed in most situations and settles quickly after a moment of alertness. It is deeply loyal to its family and naturally reserved with strangers, so ongoing socialisation and consistent training suit it best.142

Coat and looks how to spot one

rough, thick double coat

A big, heavy-boned, powerful dog under a coarse black jacket 5-15 cm long with a thick undercoat. Bushy eyebrows, a moustache and a beard give the face its famous bearded look.14

Coloursblackblack with scattered grey hairs (up to a third of the body)1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Black Russian Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate to high: at least two walks a day plus play, and it enjoys fetch, hiking, swimming, obedience and agility.23

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush several times a week with a slicker brush, paying attention behind the ears and under the legs. Regular professional trimming shapes the beard, ears and feet. It is not a heavy shedder.2

Home where they are happiest

Bred to cope with a wide range of climates; it adapts to different homes but, as a giant breed, appreciates room to move and a secure garden.12

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A complete food for large, active breeds; puppies usually eat three to four meals a day and adults two. Slow-feeder bowls and a rest period around meals are commonly advised.2

Company who they like around

A devoted family dog that often bonds closely with one person and likes having a job to do with its people.32

The story where it all began

After the Second World War the Soviet army's Red Star kennel set out to build a large, tough, trainable working dog, mixing Giant Schnauzers with Rottweilers, Airedales, Newfoundlands and others. Civilian breeders took over from 1957 and refined its looks, and the breed went on to international recognition in the 1980s and AKC recognition in 2004.13

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Despite its name it is not a true terrier; its main ancestor is the Giant Schnauzer.1

  2. 2

    Around 17 breeds are thought to have gone into its making.3

  3. 3

    For its first decade the breed was produced only by the Soviet state kennel.3

  4. 4

    Growing puppies can put on roughly a kilogram a week.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Black Russian Terrier' reflects its Russian origin, its solid black coat, and the 'Terrier' designation given by the Russian military, despite the breed not being a true terrier.5

Name ideas for your new friend

AnyaBorisCzarIvanKGBMishaNataliaRasputinSashaStalinTovarischVodka

A day in the life told by a Black Russian Terrier

I start my day by checking all the windows, everything must be in order. My human and I go for a long walk, and I walk proudly by their side, always alert. At the park, I play fetch with a steady, focused energy. Back home, I stand guard by the baby's crib, calm and watchful. In the evening, I lean against my human's leg, soaking up quiet affection. I am a guardian, and I take my job seriously.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 327 (Russian Black Terrier), Group 2, Section 1.4 (Pinscher and Schnauzer type); standard dated 10.01.2011, country of origin Russia. The standard gives 1984 for FCI recognition; Wikipedia gives 1983, with the standard adopted in 1984.1
AKC
Working Group; recognised in 2004.3
The Royal Kennel Club
Recognised in 1998 (per Wikipedia).3
UKC
Recognised (per Wikipedia), alongside the CKC, ANKC and NZKC.3

Popularity Ranked 154th of AKC-registered breeds6

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Black Russian Terrier, and at what times?

Feed your adult Black Russian Terrier two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Use a slow-feeder bowl and let them rest after eating. Stick to consistent times each day, and check the food label for exact amounts, adjusting with your vet's advice.27

What should a Black Russian Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A complete, large-breed dog food is ideal for your Black Russian Terrier. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw bones. Always check with your vet before adding any treats or supplements.28

How often should I bathe a Black Russian Terrier?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but at least every three months is fine. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or spends a lot of time outdoors. Use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Black Russian Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Black Russian Terrier several times a week with a slicker brush, paying special attention behind the ears and under the legs. Pet Wiki's plan recommends at least weekly brushing to keep the coat healthy and reduce shedding.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Black Russian Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the safe way.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Black Russian Terrier need?

Your Black Russian Terrier needs at least two walks a day plus playtime. They love fetch, hiking, swimming, and dog sports like agility. Daily exercise keeps them happy and healthy.23 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Black Russian Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily or at least 2, 3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution, never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents problems.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Black Russian Terrier live?

A Black Russian Terrier typically lives 10 to 12 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a loving home, they can enjoy a long, happy life.23

Is a Black Russian Terrier good with children and other pets?

Yes, with proper socialisation from puppyhood, they are devoted family dogs and usually get along well with children and other pets. They are naturally reserved with strangers, so early training helps them feel confident.1423

Can a Black Russian Terrier be left alone?

Black Russian Terriers are loyal and like being with their people, so they may not enjoy long hours alone. Provide toys, a comfy space, and consider a pet sitter or doggy daycare if you're away often. They thrive with companionship.23

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard No. 327, Russian Black Terrier fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. PetMD Black Russian Terrier petmd.comused for lifespan, exercise, grooming, diet, temperament
  3. Black Russian Terrier, Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for history, recognition dates, lifespan study, fun facts
  4. AKC Black Russian Terrier breed page akc.orgused for temperament, appearance
  5. wsava.org wsava.org
  6. AKC, The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2025 akc.orgused for popularity
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.