Black Terrier: breed description and content secrets

Russia is a special country. Even dogs here are not like in other countries. And among them the black terrier stands out for its grace, attractive characteristics.

Literature and other sources on dog breeding are now as much as never before. However, in a number of such materials, including in relation to the Russian Black Terrier, a number of serious errors were made. Someone uncritically perceives old stereotypes, someone writes custom materials or transfers his impression of its representatives to the whole breed. Therefore, it is very important to imagine how things really are.

Until the end of the 1940s, service dogs of the USSR almost always belonged to typically European breeds. Their disadvantages were too small size and adaptation mainly to the mild climate of Germany, England, France. Absolutely different animals were urgently required:

• larger in size;
• physically developed;
• characterized by greater endurance;
• able to survive the cold and scorching heat;
• suitable for guard needs, protection of individuals, vehicles and property, patrolling the territory.

The goal was set:

• achieve a strong constitution;
• make pets stronger and bolder;
• build up wool;
• guarantee balance of the nervous system;
• improve scent and hearing;
• to achieve ease in training;
• ensure the use of dogs for protection in all climatic zones of the immense state.

Such diverse characteristics existed even then, but they were characteristic of different types of dogs. Therefore, a complex chain of interbreeding was undertaken. The result of the experiments was the withdrawal of:

• Great Dane;

• Moscow diver;

• Moscow Watchdog;

• black terrier

To obtain this last breed used:

• newfies;

• rottweilers;

• Giant Schnauzers;

• Airedale Terriers.

Giant Schnauzers attracted the attention of breeders for their excellent working and protective properties, for their activity and assertiveness. Airedale were used to improve the quality of wool and the sense of smell, to achieve a better orientation on the ground. Airedale willingly penetrate any hole, not afraid to collide with enemies. From the Rottweilers, the experimenters needed excellent security qualities. It was necessary to compensate for the lack of resistance to frost.

Along with the four main breeds, Moscow Great Dane and Russian Hounds (albeit in very small numbers) took over the formation of the black terrier. Initially derived mestizo groups began to merge together from the third generation. Unfortunately, the participation of the Giant Schnauzers at this stage was less effective than originally calculated. The final formation of the black terrier occurred, according to official figures, in the 4th generation of mixed breeds. I managed to get dogs that had:

• hard, slightly shaggy coat;
• strong and developed jaws;
• powerful limbs (without them, a weighty body could not move);
• ears suspended on cartilage.

Established in 1924, the Moscow kennel "Red Star" officially disseminated information about the creation of the breed in 1956. Then, in the breed catalog at the industry exhibition, the standard of the black terrier is published. Mestizos of the main breeds were used for livestock production. Of these, samples were selected that met the established requirements. Other dogs were transferred for work to the main center of military dog ​​breeding or to other kennels of power structures.

When the Red Star managed to develop a sufficient number of animals that met the standard, they began to be given to private owners. The first among them were participants in the Moscow club of service dog breeding. First, N. N. Nechaeva took charge of the project, then it was replaced by M. A. Anokhin. Later dogs began to receive other clubs of similar specialization.

The first full-fledged generation has partially “left” in other cities of our country. But the owners were forced to return part of the individuals to the nurseries because of viciousness. At the same time, dog handlers actively improved the characteristics of animals. The work was initially carried out under tight control by the initiators of the creation of the breed. Difficulties were even the selection of factory or at least genetic lines. When a lasting result was achieved, dogs were appreciated even in foreign countries.

Since the work was carried out in the interests of the army and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the dog handlers were mainly interested in the actual characteristics and simplicity of the content. They tried to minimize the thickness of the hairline, which is always uncomfortable in nurseries and office enclosures. But enthusiastic dog breeders in the following decades achieved a pleasant appearance. Now it’s almost impossible to meet RFT with hard, wire-like wool, and this is considered rather a marriage.

It is customary to divide terriers into two subtypes. One of them (“square”) has:

• narrow oblong head;
• dry, very raised neck;
• straightened shoulder;
• flattened chest;
• excessively elongated lower leg.

Another subspecies is distinguished by:

• pronounced rudeness of the constitution;
• muscle relief device;
• enlarged chest;
• highly developed skeleton;
• incredible stability of the nervous system.

In the characterization of the Russian black terrier, it is not enough to limit oneself to the description of the standard and the main branches of this animal. It is necessary to indicate its other properties and psychological parameters. Inexperienced people can consider a majestic dog a solid black monolith, incapable of displaying emotions. But this opinion is not true.

The official FCI-approved standard indicates the following dog sizes:

• in males - from 0.72 to 0.76 m;
• in females - from 0.68 to 0.72 m;
• taking into account permissible deviations, the smallest dimension is 0.66 m, and the largest - 0.78 m.

Occasionally, higher animals can also be found. But the official recognition of their black terriers occurs only while maintaining the original proportions and the correct appearance. The weight of the dogs is from 45 to 60 kg. In accordance with the standard, the exterior should be as follows:

• external massiveness of the case;
• proportional addition;
• significant depth and width of the chest;
• clearly visible withers;
• a straight, muscular back;
• shortened lumbar region;
• oblong head;
• mandatory presence of beards and mustaches.

The gums of the black terrier are dark in color. The neck is long. Although the ears hang, they are raised quite high. Typical for them is a triangular configuration. Dry eyelids are rigidly fitted to the surface of the eyes. The eyes themselves are oval.

According to the standard, the dog has 42 teeth forming a scissor bite. All incisors in the jaws are assembled in one straight line. According to regulatory rules, it is required to stop the tail in the region of the 3rd vertebra. Legs placed straight should be parallel to each other. Elongated blades are placed at an angle of 90 degrees.

Rounded legs end in claws of a dark color. Of the colors for the Russian black terrier, only black is suitable, with insignificant interspersed graying. The right dog is able to run long distances and jump far. Typical manners of movement are gallop and trot. The joints of the RFT are flexible, they bend without the slightest difficulty.

Since during the development of the breed it was originally conceived as an assistant in security work, the dog behaves with a person whom he obviously does not know, wary. Terriers try by any means to protect the protected area and everything on it. They simply "keep the circle", blocking the passage beyond a certain line.

If the upbringing was correct, the animal will save the owners and their children. At the same time, it will behave strictly, but not excessively aggressive. A characteristic feature of RFT at an early age is a tendency to have fun and liveliness. But this does not stop him from showing:

• fair independence;
• apparent fearlessness;
• confidence in everyday activities.

As they grow older, the dog will behave more and more decently. However, this does not affect their reliability as watchmen and escorts. Until RFT maintains normal physical activity (does not become too old), he will fulfill his duties 100%. Puppies of this breed, like other large dogs, grow up long enough.

A prerequisite for the normal development and operation of the black terrier is early socialization. If it is not produced, later there will be a number of problems in communicating with other animals and with people. Terriers in general are characterized by unjustified obstinacy. A rational approach and daily classes in a special program help circumvent this feature or significantly weaken it. With all the severity of the appearance, RFT excellently gets along with babies, able to easily endure all their leprosy.

The pet feels a deep responsibility for all family members. At the behest of instinct, he perceives them as members of the pack, which need to be protected as effectively as himself. Of the positive features of the breed are called:

• powerful intellectual abilities;
• high productivity in work;
• excellent stamina;
• calm and favorable attitude towards people;
• devotion and loyalty to the owners;
• a tendency to active games and constant movement.

These two breeds are fairly close to each other in biological terms, however, the similarity between them in practice only applies to the appearance. There are significant differences between them in terms of performance. Russian Black Terrier takes up more space, requires more products. Yes, and deal with him will have much more than with large schnauzers.

Black animals are much calmer and calmer, which is clearly visible on a walk. Slowly marching dogs are much more pleasant to owners than eternally scurrying schnauzers, and the care of their coat is very easy. Moscow bearded man, but more falls asleep with endlessly showered hair. The Giant Schnauzer wins the Terrier in solitary confinement and when used in competitions. But he is inferior to the Russian beast in suitability for security and guard duty, for keeping in frosty climates.

The trainers really appreciate the Schnauzers, but the black terriers are more like the individual owners - it is more pleasant to deal with them, and it gives many people pleasure. But when the dog is already trained, then RFT is better for a country house. There, the schnauzer will simply freeze, even if we are talking about relatively warm Russian regions. Another plus of black dogs in the out-of-town guard is calm and less tendency to bark.

The vast majority of Russian terriers live 10-11 years. But individual specimens can live up to 14 years. Experts believe that the matter is not only in proper care, but also in an impeccable genetic characteristic. Both of these components are equally important in practice. In general, the breed is slightly susceptible to hereditary diseases.

However, a significant part of breeders with experience carries out selection taking into account special medical tests. Experienced dog breeders and professional dog handlers are unanimously advised to require documents on their passage and the result obtained upon purchase. Significantly reduce the life of a pet:

• dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints;

• damage to the ears;

• infection with pathological fungi;

• juvenile paralysis.

Russian black terriers are still significantly different in terms of hairline parameters. The best are those that are dominated by a rough spine, and the undercoat is small. It’s a little worse to work with dogs in which these parts of the coat are balanced. The hardest thing is to take care of pets that are covered mainly with soft undercoat that dominates the core hair. In the first case, leaving is very easy - you just need to shave the remaining hair on the body and hips annually.

The second type of coat is considered the most elegant, but will require a systematic combing of the dog. Without such a procedure, he will not be able to maintain the texture for a long time. The third type of hairline is not very popular with both owners and experienced dog handlers. Animals will have to be combed every day.

Decorating hair, regardless of the type of main coat, is rough in structure. They need only to be washed and combed.Before starting a haircut, you need to achieve a clean coat. It should be nothing but undercoat and awn. All dead hair and parts of the undercoat should be removed immediately.

A cropped terrier should look strong and confident.. The slightest impression of some kind of decorativeness is unacceptable. This is important even when caring for puppies, not to mention adult animals. The ears are cut short both inside and out. 0.5 cm of hair is left on the outside.

The forehead is cut with a machine, starting from the superciliary arches. At this point, you need to make a rectangular shape approximately equal in width to the skull. At the junction of the forehead and the back of the head, a smooth transition between short and long hair is formed, so that a kind of “hat” is obtained. Cheekbones flatten as much as possible, and it is recommended to trim the head in the form of a brick.

Cut hair on the inside of the neck is easy. But regardless of the chosen haircut scheme, any of its lines should be smooth. 3-7 cm long wool is left on the body. The exact numbers are determined individually for each dog. Required to show:

• the severity of the developed withers;
• roundness of paws;
• "Edge" on the outer side of the thigh and on a certain part of the lower leg;
• elongated coat on the metatarsals.

Grooming is too responsible a matter to try to fully produce on one's own. This is especially true when there are plans to participate in a cynological exhibition. RFT is required to be cut and washed. Washing is required whenever a negative feeling or a desire to wash hands appear when touching and stroking the dog. When the terrier is washed, but not combed, it turns out even worse - the witches will fall down to the state of "felt boots".

The beard needs to be processed as thoroughly as possible. It is constantly clogged with food, moistened with water. An unwashed and dry beard becomes a favorable place for the development of the fungus, so the terrier may smell bad. There is no point in shaving a beard. If she is so annoying owners so emotionally, then they should buy another breed.

Combing is quickened when molting occurs. This allows you to significantly accelerate the renewal of the hairline. Clipping is strictly required. Spend it when their natural growth begins to create problems for the animal. If the claws are ground on solid ground or asphalt is sufficient, they should not be further trimmed.

Regardless of this circumstance, it is required to remove the hair growing inside the auricles, and the sulfur collected there. Without such cleaning, the dog can become seriously ill. Another indispensable point in the care is cleaning your teeth with a special toothpaste. This procedure is carried out at least 1 time in 72 hours. It is strictly forbidden to use toothpastes intended for people!

Despite the fact that RFT belongs to the same species as wolves, it is undesirable to feed them with one meat. A diet of this kind is simply unsuitable for animals. The common opinion about the need to increase the nutritional value of cereals is incorrect. Any carbohydrates for four-legged animals are “empty” and, beyond a modest daily norm, simply cease to be absorbed. But the owners are not limited in their choice between factory feed and natural products.

Adherents of feeding dogs natural food should know the optimal ratio - 30/70. 7/10 daily servings should be in proteins represented by:

• varieties of meat with limited fat content;
• sea ​​fish;
• offal (they are given a maximum of 1 time in 7 days).

The rest of the feed should be in vegetables and fruits, dairy products, cereals. Of all the fruits, only those are selected that are guaranteed not to cause allergic attacks. Another caveat is the strictest ban on pure milk. It is absolutely unacceptable to feed Russian terriers:

• sweet food;
• smoked meats of any kind;
• salty foods (regardless of salting intensity);
• dishes rich in spices;
• semi-finished products;
• bread, other bakery products.

Mixing of natural food and industrial feed is unacceptable. It does not matter at the same time whether they are used in one step or sequentially one after another. Inevitably, you get an unpleasant result - an imbalance in the digestive system. Whatever food is used, it must be consumed in a limited amount. From early childhood, puppies need to develop a clear discipline in food. Overeating invariably leads to obesity, and behind it, “problems” with joints are “tightened”.

Sometimes, already at the final stage of growing up, these same joints are severely deformed. It turns out a bent-legged, unpleasant looking dog. The food bowl should be placed on a small elevation. It is this arrangement of the feeder that best fits the physiology of the dog.

Another nuance - containing RFT, you have to put a carpet on the floor. Walking on linoleum, parquet or laminate flooring, the pet harms its limbs. They are often deformed and develop incorrectly. Somewhat unexpected for dog breeders will be a ban on frequent stroking of the head. In terriers, because of it, the line of growth of the ears may bend. Small puppies must be kept away from stairs, cabinets and other high places. Falling from them almost inevitably provokes severe injuries.

You need to comb and bathe the terriers immediately after the purchase. At an early age, this procedure is done as often as possible. If the dog is not washed and not combed at this time, later it is completely impossible to accustom them to such manipulations. Subject to these requirements, the health of the pet is guaranteed. However, it is equally important to develop suitable practical qualities from him.

Terriers need a game because it is:

• surge of energy;
• an essential element of learning;
• a valuable way to improve health.

Even when the dog is growing up, she needs to play in order to reinforce her status in the “pack”. And therefore, dog handlers, amateur trainers actively use game training elements. It is almost useless to fight the instinct that commands everything encountered on the way to bite, bite and scratch. But you can not provoke the terrier once again - let all your things be inaccessible to him. The selection of toys to satisfy those very instinctive needs should be carried out individually.

There are a lot of options:

• balls;
• large beef bones;
• tarpaulin twisted to the state of “sausage”;
• "Tweeter";
• special sticks;
• Stuffed Toys.

Old toys, clothes (and even parts of them), and furniture parts cannot be used as toys. Animals, despite all the intellectual achievements, are basically unable to understand why it is possible to play with some things, but it is impossible to play with other things that look similar. The dog distinguishes everything by smell, and the category “used - not used” is higher than the limits of its presentation. You can ward off the dog from the legs of a chair or other objects through the use of cologne or another substance that the terrier will not like.

You can do otherwise using the reflex of resistance. To do this, open the mouth of the puppies and put a “forbidden” item by force, but without self-harm. Older terriers deserve a different treatment: the owner must say “Listen” to them, demonstrate alertness and leave for another room. One such measure is usually enough to explain the unacceptability of a particular behavior. The rigid prohibitive command “Fu” is given only in a particularly responsible or especially difficult situation.

The owner of the RFT should clearly understand that this is an extremely powerful means of influence, almost an extreme measure. Excessively frequent use of such an order devalues ​​its significance. In addition to training, you will need to take care of how to properly leave the puppy at home. Even before leaving for work or other long absences, you need to walk him. It is useful to pronounce the phrases “I'm leaving for the service”, “I will be soon” and so on.

Although these are not teams, they should be repeated each time you leave home and, moreover, in a strictly unchanged form. Then the animal will get used to these formulas and, when pronouncing them, will wait exactly as long as necessary. When an object (any) is thrown to a terrier, one must look where it will drag it. If he goes to the owner, you will have to command Aport. It is strictly forbidden to play tug of various things with dogs whose teeth and jaws are not formed.

It is also useful to use the toy throwing exercise between family members. In this case, the terrier must monitor the movement of objects and the movements of the people themselves. Sometimes it’s even worth starting with intentional mistakes. This will increase interest on the part of the pet. It is strictly forbidden to play games that are accompanied by running around the owners for animals.

On the street, you need to play with terriers only with home toys. Otherwise, they will pick everything up from the ground. Elements of struggle and fuss in games are perfectly acceptable and even desirable. But you need to immediately stop the game when the puppy begins to bite seriously. From a very young age, he must master the attitude that the owner has absolute immunity.

But curiosity and interest in everything around us can only be welcomed. In this case, it is necessary to categorically exclude any provocation of an attack on other living beings. If the pet shows aggression itself, it must be gently but resolutely nipped. It’s useful to master the “watch” command. This order will come in handy when a suspicious person (car) appears nearby, and when children play in the yard, and in some other cases.

It is advisable to walk along with well-mannered dogs. Otherwise, the imitative reflex will force you to adopt not the best forms of behavior. Near any roads and railways, even when they are empty, you need to stop, look around. When crossing the highway, you must give a command "Nearby". Running and playing with a puppy is easy to combine with mastering a team "Barrier".

The command “to me” should be executed immediately and unconditionally, regardless of all other circumstances. To achieve the execution of the order, you must always call the RFT without subsequent punishment or the removal of “interesting” items. Let the call always be pleasant - then the result will please the owner. The next order to be mastered is an instant stop at the command of the owner.

Forbidden teams are practiced primarily with painful negative stimulation. It should be applied not only when refusing to carry out the order at all, but also when braking, sluggishness. Training should be repeated again and again, achieving an impeccable result. In case of persistent failures, it is better to resort to the help of specialists. It is strictly forbidden:

• let the dog on the working and dining table;
• letting her go to the kitchen again;
• allow lying or sitting on the couch;
• to achieve a total aggressive reaction to each passerby or to each car for no reason.

Many black owners consider the Russian Black Terrier to be a poorly trained dog. But those who know how to achieve obedience rejoice at this pet. It is easier to train an animal at an early age. In reviews about black terriers also note:

• Jealousy in the protection of the territory;
• uncompromising protection of people;
• love for all family members;
• painful reaction to the slightest conflicts within the family;
• difficulties in grooming;
• outward beauty;
• the need for constant communication;
• immunity to rude behavior.

About the features of the breed, see the video below.