Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is described by the AKC as intelligent, calm, powerful, a member of the Working Group, originally from Russia.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Height | 27-30 inches (male), 26-29 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 80-130 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Calm / Powerful [1] |
| AKC group | Working Group [1] |
| Origin | Russia [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 154 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Black Russian Terrier needs at least 30 or 40 minutes of exercise every day. He is eager to take part in brisk walks, long runs, bike rides, swims, and hikes with his owner. In the backyard, he and his owner can play with a ball or a flying disc. [1]
Grooming
The Black Russian Terrier's tousled double coat'¿a thick, soft undercoat covered by a coarse, protective outer coat'¿needs regular maintenance to prevent mats from forming, with a thorough brushing once or twice a week. The owner will need to learn to scissor around the face, especially his beard and mustache, to keep him looking his best, or rely on a professional groomer to do the job. A trim with clippers every few months can be done by a groomer, but many owners learn how to do it themselves. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Black Russian Terrier is typically a healthy breed, and a responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as allergies, urinary tract stones, hip and elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause vision loss and blindness. As with all breeds, a Black Russian Terrier's ears should be checked regularly, and the teeth should be brushed regularly. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
| Full professional grooming, per visit | $40–$150 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Black Russian Terrier in 2004. [1]
- It ranked No. 154 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 116 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “BRT, Blackie, Black Pearl of Russia.” [1]
- The AKC lists Russia as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Low-maintenance seekers: AKC rates grooming needs 4/5
Common questions
How long do Black Russian Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Black Russian Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 27-30 inches (male), 26-29 inches (female) and weight 80-130 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Black Russian Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Black Russian Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.