A small dog with a short, square muzzle and erect ears, the Boston Terrier is strong and well-muscled with eyes which are fairly large, round and wide apart. Originally bred as fighting dogs, this unusual looking breed soon found its place in the hearts and homes of people across the world.
| Lifespan: | 13–15 years |
| Weight: | 4.5–11.5kg |
| Height: | 38–43cm |
| Colours: | Short-coated, the Boston Terrier comes in various colours, including brindle and white, and black with white markings |
| Size: | Small |
| Kennel Club group: | Utility |
| Family-friendly: | 4/5 |
| Exercise needs: | 4/5 |
| Easy to train: | 4/5 |
| Tolerates being alone: | 3/5 |
| Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
| Energy level: | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
| Shedding: | 2/5 |
The Boston Terrier is a lively, happy dog that can be quite determined and strong-willed. They are usually good with children and love to play, but they can be boisterous and care must be taken that games are not too rough, as they can be prone to injury, especially their eyes. They love human company and make affectionate pets and are outgoing and social with all. While they are called a ‘terrier’, they are not in the terrier group and neither do they behave like one, being far happier at home with their owner than getting into the usual mischief!
The Boston Terrier would suit an owner who enjoys their unconventional appearance and who wants a fun, affectionate companion that doesn’t need much exercise but does want to join in with everything that is going on.
In the 1800s, the Boston Terrier dog breed was originally a cross between an English Bulldog and an English White Terrier. Then around 1893, more crossbreeding was carried out, seeing the breed crossed with the English Bull Terrier, Boxer and the Pit Bull Terrier, along with other terriers. Originally the Boston Terrier weighed over 20kg, but was bred smaller and smaller until they became the size we know them as today.
The flat face of the Boston Terrier, if extreme, can result in obstruction of their airways and a difficulty in breathing. Like many other breeds, there are a variety of hereditary eye problems that can occur and they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place, this condition is known as patella luxation.
The exercise requirements of this dog are quite undemanding; about an hour's daily exercise will be needed. They do not yearn for long walks, but they do like to go everywhere with their owners.
The Boston Terrier makes a great urban companion and can live in a small space as long as they have access to the outdoors for exercise and toileting.
Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.
The Boston Terrier breed is easily groomed. A grooming mitt used on the coat once a week should be adequate to remove any dead hair from the coat. This is a clean breed with no doggie odours.
The Boston Terrier will enjoy basic training and should be taught to walk on a harness and lead and also to come back when called.
Boston Terriers make good family dogs as they will join in with family games and are friendly and social. They do better with sensible, older children though as they can be prone to eye injuries.
While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.
