Black Russian Terrier

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Black Russian Terrier

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 2ft 2in - 2ft 6in
Weight: 80-127lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 11 Years

Behavior

  • Affection4/5
  • Kid-Friendly2/5
  • Stranger-Friendly1/5
  • Dog-Friendly2/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty4/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train5/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need4/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly3/5

Black Russian Terrier Information

Black Russian TerrierTalk about a big guy! The Black Russian Terrier weighs in at 140 pounds and stands as high as 30” in the shoulder. On top of this, they have a huge, blocky head and heavy black coat to keep them warm in the coldest climates. This powerful, intelligent dog can be aloof with strangers but is very warm and loving toward people he trusts. In fact, he serves as a great protector. If you have extra room and want a large, exotic dog no one else has, this is the breed for you.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Black Russian Terriers be apartment dogs?

Black Russian Terriers aren't ideal for apartments, but they can live there if they get enough chances to play in a larger space nearby.

Can Black Russian Terriers be left alone?

While Black Russian Terriers prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Black Russian Terriers good with kids?

Black Russian Terriers can be difficult around the rowdy behavior of a child. They should be watched very closely.

Are Black Russian Terriers friendly with strangers?

Black Russian Terriers are very slow to warm up to strangers. They need a long period of exposure before they trust someone.

Do Black Russian Terriers get along with other dogs?

Black Russian Terriers aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend not to get along unless they are carefully socialized.

Do Black Russian Terriers bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Black Russian Terriers bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Black Russian Terriers shed a lot?

Black Russian Terriers shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Black Russian Terriers need a lot of grooming?

The Black Russian Terrier requires continued maintenance to keep their coat healthy. They aren't the most demanding, but they are on the higher end.

Do Black Russian Terriers need a lot of exercise?

The Black Russian Terrier has a good amount of energy and needs walks and play to stay happy.

Are Black Russian Terriers easy to train?

The Black Russian Terrier is smart and extremely trainable. They learn commands quickly and enjoy the bond of training.

Can Black Russian Terriers handle cold weather?

Black Russian Terriers do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they handle colder climates well.

Can Black Russian Terriers handle hot weather?

Although Black Russian Terriers can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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