As the name suggests, the Boston Terrier was developed in Boston, Massachusetts, in the latter half of the 19th century. Boston Terriers are a cross between the English Bulldog and the now-extinct white English Terrier. Once bred for pit-fighting and vermin hunting, Boston Terriers have evolved into a friendly all-around family pet. The Boston Terrier was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1893.

Boston Terrier Appearance 

Boston Terriers are a small-medium sized dog with a well-balanced, compact build. They have a square-shaped head, erect ears, small tails and a short muzzle. Boston Terriers come in three weight classes: lightweight, under 15 pounds; middleweight, 15 to 20 pounds; heavyweight, 20 to 25 pounds. Boston Terriers typically stand 15-17 inches tall at the shoulder.

Boston Terrier Temperament 

As a result of their gentle disposition and tuxedo-like coat, Boston Terriers have been nicknamed the “American gentlemen.” Boston Terriers are intelligent, lively and affectionate. They’re known to be a little stubborn at times; however, this can be addressed with consistent training. If you’re looking for a good-natured companion, the Boston Terrier is a great choice. Boston Terriers enjoy being around people and get along well with children and other pets.

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Grooming Your Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are not high maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have a smooth, short coat that sheds minimally year-round. The traditional colors for Boston Terriers include black, seal, or brindle with white markings. If you want to keep shedding to a minimum and your Boston’s coat looking its best it’s recommended that you brush them once a week using a soft-bristle brush. Bostons also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental care.

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Training & Exercise for Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers are intelligent dogs, which makes them easy to train. It’s recommended that you start by teaching your Boston basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come and leash training. As Bostons can be quite sensitive, it’s recommended that you use gentle corrections and positive reinforcement. 

Boston Terriers are high-energy dogs that need up to an hour of exercise daily. They enjoy walks around the neighborhood or interactive games like fetch and tug of war. As a breed prone to separation anxiety, Boston Terriers don’t like being left alone for long periods of time.

Health Considerations for Boston Terriers 

Allergies

Boston terriers can develop a variety of allergies, including contact, inhalant and food allergies. Some common symptoms of allergies in Bostons are excessive scratching, licking the paws, rubbing the face, sneezing and diarrhea. Bostons who consume dog food full of artificial flavours, byproducts and other harmful ingredients are more likely to encounter health issues. Therefore, it’s important to feed your Boston Terrier a healthy, well-balanced diet, so they can develop a strong immune system. Being able to recognize the signs of allergies in your Boston and treat them accordingly will ensure they enjoy a healthy and comfortable life.

Brachycephalic Syndrome 

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BAOS) is a combination of upper airway abnormalities that cause partial obstruction to a dog’s breathing. As a result of the Bostons’ short nose and flattened face, they are more prone to this particular condition. Boston Terriers that are affected may experience a range of symptoms such as loud breathing, difficulty handling exercise, heat intolerance and difficulty eating. 

Cataracts

A cataract is developed when the lens of the eye clouds, preventing light from reaching the retina. Signs to watch for in your Boston Terrier include changes in eye colour, cloudy pupils in one or both eyes, confusion and clumsiness. This condition can be treated with surgery, but if left untreated, can lead to blindness.

Cherry Eye

Some dog breeds are predisposed to developing cherry eye, including the Boston Terrier. Cherry eye occurs when your Boston’s third eyelid tear gland prolapses. This causes the eyelid to become irritated, swollen and red like a cherry. Symptoms to be aware of in your Boston include dry eye, scratching/pawing at the eye or an swollen, oval mass protruding from the corner of the eye. Once diagnosed your vet may recommend anti-inflammatory drops to help reduce the swelling. Treatment may also involve the surgical replacement of the third eyelid gland. 

It’s important to monitor your Boston's vision to detect various eye conditions early on, especially in the first years of their life. It’s recommended that you have your Boston’s eyes checked by your vet on a regular basis.  

Deafness

Boston Terriers are prone to heritable deafness in one or both ears. Responsible breeders should have Boston puppies BAER tested to evaluate their hearing. If you notice that your Boston is not responding or reacting to sounds, this could be a sign that they’re deaf. Although there’s no treatment for deafness, if provided the proper care, your Boston can go on to live a long and happy life. 

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a condition common in small dogs, including the Boston Terrier. A luxating patella is a knee cap that moves out of its normal position. When this occurs your Boston may have difficulty bearing weight on their leg. This condition can cause your Boston to have cartilage damage, pain, inflammation and, in some cases, ligament tears. Some symptoms to look for in your Boston Terrier include limping, lameness or sudden lifting of the hindlimb. Treatment will depend on the severity of the condition; however, surgery may be needed to hold the patella in its appropriate location. 

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What Makes a Boston Terrier Unique?  

Boston Terriers are nicknamed the “American Gentlemen”

The Boston Terrier is one of the few all-American breeds. As a result of their gentle disposition and tuxedo-like coat, Boston Terriers have been nicknamed the “American gentlemen.”

Boston Terriers are popular in the U.S.

The Boston Terrier remains one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. In 1922, Boston University declared Rhett the Boston Terrier its official mascot. In 1979, the Boston Terrier was also designated the official state dog of Massachusetts.

Boston Terriers were bred to be fighters

Boston Terriers were originally bred for the terrible practice of dog-fighting. However, the modern Boston Terrier is more a lover than a fighter. Boston Terriers are gentle, affectionate and make great companions.

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