The Russian Black Terrier/Black Russian Terrier

When the Great Patriotic War for Russia was over, people returned home to start back to their regular lives and past times. In the dog world the majority of stud dogs had died during the war and the numbers of dogs in clubs were also greatly reduced. Large, strong dogs were required, balanced in temperament, able to work in different climatic conditions for military services and to restore national economy.

Under the leadership of colonel G. Medvedev of the Central Military School of Working Dogs the Red Star (“Krasnaya Zvenda”) Kennel began the breeding of new dogs, able to perform guard-work. These were selected by reproductive crossing of proven and well compatible working breeds: Giant Schnauzers, Airedale terriers, Rottweilers and Newfoundland’s. The major ancestor is found in Roy, a male Giant Schnauzer, mated to Rottweillers, Airedales and Moscow Divers.

Roy was chosen for his guarding instincts and agility. The Airedales because of their happy disposition and perseverance. The Rottweillers because of their courage make and shape. The program continued, but top of the list seems to have been temperament and character. The Newfoundland was also introduced to give steadiness and an all weather coat. They also gave the Russian Black Terrier its webbed feet.

The first standard on a BRT (RBT in the UK) was published in "Regulations and Requirements for Training and Usage of Military Dogs" in 1958.

Good breeding foundations were created by the 70-s, and with the help of RBT`s founders Mazover and Sheinin the best stud dogs and bitches were selected at shows and among the puppies. The experts in the ring were taught under the leadership of A. Mazover, V. Sheinin, E. Krasnoschyokova, and T. Gusakova…Geneticists and biologists were also involved in work, the breeding group became more hard and purposeful.

The BRT was recognised as a breed in 1981. The first breed standard was accepted on the 13th of May 1981 by USSR Ministry of Agriculture.

In 1984 at the International Assembly in Mexico the BRT breed was recognized by FCI. The breed was named Black Russian Terrier. So Black Terriers began to take part in International Shows under the name of Black Russian Terriers.

Gradually spreading around the world and in 1996 the first RBT came to the UK through Mr T and Mrs J Huxley, by March 1999 there were 20 Russian Black Terriers in the UK. By January 2003 we had approximately 225 RBTs in the UK. By 2005 nearly 400.

For a more in-depth history visit the Russian Black Terrier Club (UK) web site at www.rbtclub.co.uk Its not only history of the breed that’s on the site. You can also get details of how to become a member of the club, grooming this breed. The breed stall where you can purchase items from books to key rings and much more.