Lassie, watch out! You may have met your match. When searching for a dog with the ability, the intelligence and the determination for training - for recreation, for show or for sport - the Black Russian Terrier rivals any breed for ease and fun. This is especially true if the owners are as willing as the dog will be.

The Black Russian Terrier loves people. This is a positive step toward training a dog. Because they purely love being around people, they will enjoy the companionship of training. Highly intelligent, owners may find enjoyment in training their Black Russian Terrier, whether it's for agility, obedience, flyball, search and rescue, or a multitude of activities that are right up the breed's alley.

But be warned: Training is not a one-time deal with the Black Russian Terrier. Loyal to a fault, the dog should and will have an incredibly high work ethic. It can not be neglected or ignored. The Black Russian Terrier will want to get the job done, and get it done right! Be prepared for the redundancy of multiple attempts of the same task at hand.

Just as with all dogs, but perhaps more so with the Black Russian Terrier, this breed is intent on making strong relationships with its owners. However, this love and loyalty can be used to train a Black Russian Terrier to be untrustworthy of others, even if it's unintentional. Because of its size and its breeding to be a guardian, this has the potential to be dangerous, if not put in check while it's still a fun-loving puppy.

Another drawback is the possibility that the intelligent Black Russian Terrier may misunderstand commands of its owners. This is generally not the fault of the dog, and again, is usually unintentional the part of the owners. It takes clear, concise commands to communicate with the Black Russian Terrier. It also responds to logic more than it does a heavy hand. Failure to do so can be tragic for this innately confident, intelligent and head-strong breed, as a battle of wills may ensue. The problems can be two-fold. First, it could lead the dog to be left without its greatest desire: The trust and love it feels for its owner. Secondly, it could also lead the owner to consider the dog defiant, stubborn, or just plain stupid. This could lead to the owner giving up on this wonderful companion, who just wants to make sure it understands what he's asked to do.

Owners of Black Russian Terriers would be good to remember that these dogs were bread to be protectors. It was also bred to be a partner with people. Keeping these pointers in mind, as well as keeping a level head, will lead to hours of enjoyment with the active Black Russian Terrier.