The Black Russian Terrier, also known as the Russian Bear Schnauzer, is a breed created in the former Soviet Union using over 20 other breeds, mostly imported from Germany. This breed was made initially for the military and is designed as a working dogs. In later years, more care has been given to the appearance of the dog as well, making it look as it does today.
The head expresses power and strength, balanced from the side and blocky, almost brick-like from the front. The medium-sized dark eyes are almond-shaped, with black rims. Its jaws are powerful and wide and are surrounded by full, meaty lips.
The body, weighing an average of 50-60 kg in males and 45-50 kg in females, is strong and muscular, with an oval shape and with a wide neck to support it. The topline is level and straight, the abdomen firm. The wide, muscular, croup descends lightly to high set, thick, cropped tail. The legs should be parallel, with round feet. The shoulder-height is 66-72 cm for males and 64-70 cm for females.
The Russian Bear Schnauzer is covered with a tousled, double coat, usually black, and theres the possibility of some gray mixed into it. The under-layer is thick and the upper coat is rough, making it very resistant to cold weather. The standard cut for this breed is to trim the entire body but leave the moustache and beard alone. Also, the dog should be groomed at least once per week in order to avoid excessive shedding; taking care to also remove hairs from ear ducts and cut the hairs under the paws.
Overall this breed is a generally healthy dog, living up to 10-14 years, with few health problems, amongst which are hip and elbow dysplasia.
Because it is a dog bred especially for working, it has a very strong “work ethic” and needs to do a job in order to be happy. Early training is important, but these dogs are very responsive as they are a very intelligent breed. Their overall behavior is balanced, determined and fearless.
The Russian Schnauzer is weary with strangers until its owner says otherwise and deeply loyal to family. It makes an excellent guard dog because of its protective instincts. Because of its calm and nurturing nature and its love for playing, it gets along very well with children or other pets. These dogs love to exercise and also love water and snow, but they will not usually react in a negative manner if they arent taken out for their daily stroll. Owners must be weary though that if they do not get enough exercise and attention for longer periods they can become, as most dogs, destructive and hyperactive.
The Russian Bear Schnauzer is an ideal family pet but is not a dog for beginners because it does need a fair amount of training, attention and exercise; if you think you are up for the task, it will make an ideal companion for you and your family.
