I first described the Black Russian Terrier on my original website in 2008 as a robust and powerful dog. Since then the AKC has used robust to describe some of this breeds attributes. The breed is not for everyone. The right candidate has experience with large breeds and headstrong dogs. They are a challenge. The perfect owner is one who is firm with commands. The breed is not one to leave in your backyard unsupervised all day long. They need to be in the home and part of the family. They are naturally aloof of strangers and if not properly socialized they can be territorial. The breed was design by the Russian military for work in the field. To this day they guard prisons and missile silos, scent detect drugs and bombs, and are beloved pets in the family. In Russia it is illegal to own a gun but who needs a gun with and BRT living in the home. They are staunch protectors and loving companions. They have a very high intelligence with problem solving abilities. This makes them easy to train. To own one, there is a great responsibility to nurture this creature through love and training.