Russian Doodle Terrier

65-115 lbs
16-24"
United States
Black Russian Terrier
Poodle
The Russian Doodle Terrier is a rare hybrid dog that combines the best characteristics of the popular Standard Poodle with those of the unique Black Russian Terrier. Calm, affectionate, loyal and protective, the Russian Doodle Terrier makes an ideal companion and wonderful family dog. They are kind with children and other dogs, especially so if they have been socialized fully as a young puppy. This socialization process is important for young dogs so that they grow up confident and trustworthy. Like many dogs, the Russian Doodle Terrier loves to play, the Poodle influence can make them a bit goofy at times but that just endears them to their owners even more. Their soft, often curly  or tousled coat that is very dense is a trademark of their appearance, and they may have the bearded face like their parent Black Russian Terrier. These dogs are large and solid but fluid in their movements, and they are protective of the family. Normally a quiet type of dog, they will let you know verbally when strangers are around. Their alertness comes from their working background; these dogs miss nothing! A unique and rare hybrid dog, the Russian Doodle Terrier is a prized pet and companion to their owners.
purpose Purpose
Companion, Agility, Guard Dog
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Poodle, Black Russian Terrier

Russian Doodle Terrier Health

Average Size
Male Russian Doodle Terrier size stats
Height: 18-26 inches Weight: 70-120 lbs
Female Russian Doodle Terrier size stats
Height: 16-24 inches Weight: 65-115 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
  • Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Minor Concerns
  • Skin Allergies
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Von Willebrand's Disease
  • Epilepsy
Occasional Tests
  • Buccal Mucosal Screening
  • Regular Full Physical Examination By Veterinarian
  • Ophthalmic Examination
  • Physical and Neurologic Examination
  • Skin Scraping Test for Allergies
  • Skin Scrapings and Biopsy
  • X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Russian Doodle Terrier Breed History

The Russian Doodle Terrier is a rare hybrid breed; a look at the parents for indications as to characteristics that may be inherited is the ideal way to get a view of the hybrid. The Standard Poodle is the largest Poodle in size, and was bred to be a working dog. They are believed to have originated from the Barbet and the Hungarian Water Hound. The Poodle was trained to retrieve water fowl from the waterways for eager hunters, and their dense curly coat helped to protect them from the icy waters. While the fancy Poodle clip of today is a far cry from the clipping the hunters used to enable the dog to swim easier, it is a unique style that has stayed with the Poodle throughout the ages. Clipping helped the dog to swim quicker, and protected against getting caught up in the reeds. During the 18th century, Poodles were well known in Europe - especially in Germany where they are said to have originated from, and then in France who fell in love with the dog and refined their hairstyle clip into the elegant Poodle cut we know today. The Poodle was recognized as an intelligent dog and they were utilized in the travelling circuses as performers doing all sorts of tricks. The Poodle also enjoyed popularity with nobility, becoming valued companions for many a nobleman or woman. Today the Poodle is still a popular breed, and excels in the show ring in agility, field trials and outdoor sports. Fancy or not, these dogs are tough, intelligent and hard working dogs with a sense of humor, very affectionate and loyal to their owners. The Black Russian Terrier was developed by the Soviet Army in order to achieve a dog who was wonderfully adapted to the harsh Russian winters. The Red Star Kennels did an amazing job and produced a dog that could run long fence lines, chase and catch intruders, and stay warm enough to survive. Among the breeds used to create such a dog were the Giant Schnauzers, Airedales, Rottweilers and Great Danes. The Blackies, as the dogs were nicknamed, worked at rail crossings, prisons, and assorted military venues. When the military had too many puppies they started selling them to the public where dog fanciers refined the breed by adding in Newfoundland bloodlines for stability. In 1958 The Soviet Army created the first breed standard for the Black Russian Terrier. Admired for their ability to protect home and family, their reputation as excellent working dogs, and their elegant appearance captured the imagination of the public. The Black Russian Terrier was brought to America during 1889 and 1900. The American Kennel Club accepted the breed as part of the working group of dogs on July 1, 2004. Today the Blackie's popularity is still rising as more people get to know this amazing animal. Their elegant appearance, sociability and love of children is valued by many owners.

Russian Doodle Terrier Breed Appearance

Big and bold is the best description of the Russian Doodle Terrier. Large in size, their body is solid yet has the athleticism and agility inherited from the Poodle. The body is well proportioned and they have an elegant yet sturdy shape to them. Their chest is quite deep and their legs are sturdy but flexible. The solid neck supports the wedge shaped head, and the face can be bearded, a gift from the Black Russian parent. The muzzle is often long and pointed, with teeth meeting in a scissors bite. Floppy ears and fluffy eyebrows makes it hard to see where the eyes are but then you notice the deep round eyes of liquid amber that are observing your every move. Their face is inquisitive and intelligent, they are one of the smartest dogs around and they know it. The coat envelopes them like a dense tousled suit, and it can come in a variety of colors such as black, brown, cream, silver, and white to name a few. The tail is often long and fluffy, or may be docked. Solid, fluid, active and a real charmer, this attractive dog is unique and rare but worth pursuing if you have the time to devote to it.
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Russian Doodle Terrier eyes
Brown
amber Russian Doodle Terrier eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Russian Doodle Terrier nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
black Russian Doodle Terrier coat
Black
brown Russian Doodle Terrier coat
Brown
white Russian Doodle Terrier coat
White
cream Russian Doodle Terrier coat
Cream
gray Russian Doodle Terrier coat
Gray
red Russian Doodle Terrier coat
Red
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Russian Doodle Terrier wavy coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Russian Doodle Terrier Breed Maintenance

The coat of your Russian Doodle Terrier does require daily or every second day brushing to keep their dense tousled coat looking its best. During grooming, check your dog to ensure they are in good health and have no cuts or lesions that need attention. Dogs will not tell you if they have an injury, they just soldier on, so be aware as you are brushing their coats for tell-tale signs of injury. Their ears can be prone to infections as they are quite hairy which creates the ideal environment for bacterial build up. Gently wipe the inside of the ear with a damp soft cloth to clean it out, and dry carefully, taking care not to damage the delicate inner ear. Check the eyes to ensure they are not weeping or that long hair is not creating a problem for the eyes. Prevention is always the easiest and cheapest route to take when it comes to your dog's health. Bathing these big dogs is quite a mission, but luckily for you they don't need one very often, unless they have traipsed through some mud or rolled in something unpleasant. Always use a dog shampoo which maintains the natural oils on their skin and preserves the weather resistance of the coat. Teeth and nails are next on the list; a quick trim of the nails is all that is required, and brushing of your Russian Doodle Terrier's teeth on most days will help prevent any health issues and keep their breath smelling sweet.
Brushes for Russian Doodle Terrier
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Dematter
Dematter
Comb
Comb
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Russian Doodle Terrier requires daily brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Russian Doodle Terrier Temperament

Impressive in stature, solid but fluid in motion, the Russian Doodle Terrier is a dog that is almost a contradiction of their appearance. They can look formidable at first glance, especially if they have the Black Russian parent's facial characteristics and body - big, blocky and solid muscle. But their nature is the reverse - they are calm dogs, confident but not aggressive unless pushed, and affectionate and loving of their family. Loyal and devoted, they make ideal companions and willing playmates. Full of energy and highly intelligent, this dog loves a mental challenge such as training or field trials, agility or going out with you on your daily walks. They crave human companionship and like to be included in family activities. Although a big solid dog, they can adjust to apartment living with the caveat that they get a daily walk or two to burn off some of that energy. An active family will be a delight to this dog, as they are not one to be just sitting around snoozing their life away. They want action! Lots of it, so be aware of this requirement when shopping for a new companion. Their dense coat and curly fur needs quite a bit of maintenance to keep them looking their best, but it is worth it when you see how attractive this dog brushes up. Like most dogs, the Russian Doodle Terrier responds to positive reinforcement and praise when learning something new. Harsh methods will not work with this dog and shouldn't be used on any dog. They can have a stubborn streak but they are really only testing you to see who is boss;  the boss needs to be you, not the dog or you may end up with a demanding companion that tests your patience. Be the leader your dog wants you to be in a fair and kind way and your hybrid will do anything you want him to do.

Russian Doodle Terrier Activity Requirements

Active and full of mischief, especially when a young dog, the Russian Doodle Terrier is a large active dog who wants to be in on everything going on around their home. They love human company, and will go to great lengths to be part of your life. They need regular walks on a daily basis to wear off some of that built up energy, and make great walking or cycling companions. Just keep them on a leash as they do have strong hunting instincts and can be side-tracked by interesting trails or fast moving small animals. They enjoy playing in water, and thrive on mentally challenging games or training. These dogs are very adaptable to most climates and homes. They do best in a house with a yard that they will claim as their domain, and will patrol it to ensure no strangers get in without them noticing. Children will love a dog that just wants to keep playing with them, and these dogs can play for hours. But when worn out they will love nothing better than curling up on your feet or as close to you as they can get away with. If you don't have time to ensure your dog is well exercised and has constant companionship, then this is not the dog for you. They need to be with you - period!
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
14 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
90 minutes
activity minutes

Russian Doodle Terrier Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
3 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.90 - $2.20
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$40.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Russian Doodle Terrier Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 13.0 inches Weight: 17.5 lbs
Female Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 11.0 inches Weight: 16.0 lbs
12 Months
Male Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 23.0 inches Weight: 60.0 lbs
Female Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 20.0 inches Weight: 54.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 23.0 inches Weight: 110.0 lbs
Female Russian Doodle Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 22.0 inches Weight: 97.5 lbs

Russian Doodle Terrier Owner Experiences

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