The Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier is a breed that was “engineered” by the Russians shortly after world War II for the specific purpose of producing a strong, fearless, and hardy working dog that could withstand the rigors of the cold Russian winter and would be a strong and formidable protector. The “Red Star” kennels, a state owned and operated kennel, was the name of the government kennel of the Soviet Union whose function was to produce the necessary dogs needed for the military and other important functions.

The basic “ingredients” for the working dog they were attempting to produce were the Giant Schnauzer of Germany, (already a favorite in Russia), the Rottweiler, the Airedale Terrier, the Newfoundland, and the Caucasian Ovcharka, and a few others. Combining these breeds in the old fashioned way, with many test breedings and much hard work on the part of the “Red Star” kennels eventually produced the right combination of the characteristics desired by the government and the new breed, the Black Russian Terrier, was born. Since that time the Black Russian has gained in popularity in other countries and is now a member of the American Kennel club, registered as a member of the Working Group.

The appearance of the Black Russian Terrier is similar to that of a large and shaggy somewhat unkempt Giant Schnauzer. The coat is tousled with a hard outer coat and a dense soft undercoat, it should not have the well trimmed appearance of the Giant Schnauzer about the face, although it does have a beard and “eyebrows” which are long and very nearly cover all of the eyes. The head should have a tousled appearance and the coat should not have a wiry or harsh texture. Some trimming of the coat is allowed for the show ring . The only acceptable color of the Black Russian Terrier is as the name implies: black.

The nature of this dog is one of reliable guardianship. Without question this is a dog that should not be considered only a “pet” for he is by nature a dog meant to work. Without a job to do and adequate training from early on, this dog could very easily be destructive just because of boredom. He is high intelligent and eager to learn, he naturally possesses a strong protective instinct but should be controllable and reliable. This is a dog that should be self confident and laid back as an adult. As a youngster he requires early socialization and responsible training.

The Black Russian is also a long lived and healthy breed with few genetic conditions. As with all large dogs hip dysplasia should be guarded against. Furthermore the Black Russian Terrier Club of America also recommends that testing be done for cardiac conditions.

***************************************************
* Article Source: Michael Russell
* Your Dog Guide
* Visit us for more information.
***************************************************

Black Russian Terrier - Yahoo! News Search Results
Black Russian Terrier - Yahoo! News Search Results

This week's most adoptable pets
This big guy is Bruno, a 3-year-old male lab/mastiff-mix. Active, strong and friendly, Bruno is a large dog with a short black and white coat. He is good with other dogs. He is available at the St. Charles Pet Adoption Center, Call 636-949-7387 for more information. Ask for shelter number 227933.
An artistic, beautiful, silent ode
NEW YORK ? A silent movie in tribute to silent movies, ?The Artist? puts its money where its mouth is, so to speak. Or not to.
An ode to silents, mute 'Artist' sings
NEW YORK - The best validation for the nostalgia of "The Artist" is the film, itself.
Review: 'The Artist' speaks beautifully in silence
The best validation for the nostalgia of ?The Artist? is the film, itself. A silent movie in tribute to silent movies, ?The Artist? puts its money where its mouth is, so to speak. Or not to, rather.
JFK: ?Well, that?s a tough day?
Newly released White House tapes reveal one particularly eerie conversation between President John F. Kennedy and an aide just three days before his death. Kennedy, in the tape dated Tuesday, Nov. 19, 1963, is heard casually talking about his upcoming trip to Dallas that Friday, his weekend plans in Cape...
TGIF: Movie capsules
?ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED? ? Puns like these would be unforgivable coming from a human. From high-pitched rodents, they prompt calls for an exterminator. The third in the noxiously contemporary series of new Chipmunks films, ?Chipwrecked? is full of the cheapest kind of pop culture references. Here is Alvin aping James Bond with a tail that?s ?shaken, not stirred,? a suggestion to ...
'The Artist' is a valentine to Hollywood's yesteryear
By Mark Hinson Democrat senior writer -- Yes, yes, "The Artist" is a tad too cutesy and, let's be honest, gimmicky.