Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information

Group

Terriers

Weight

7-11 kg

Height

23–38 cm

Lifespan

11-15 years

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About the Boston Terrier

Reviewed by:

Dr. Shamsul Alam Roky

Veterinarian

If you are looking for the perfect addition to your family, these small, loyal, and affectionate little dogs are the ultimate furry companion. Whether you’re a new dog owner or an experienced one – these little fellas are the perfect pick!

This guide will tell you all you need to know and more! By the time you’re done reading this, you’ll know if this beautiful pup is the one for you (which we’re confident it will be)!

What is the history & origin of the Boston Terrier?

There are many stories about how a Boston Terrier came into being. Some say that Bostons were first developed in the late 1800s by crossing white English terriers and bulldogs, and some say that there was a dog named Judge who was imported from England, and they used him for breeding purposes.

In 1889 various owners of the dog formed the American Bull Terrier Club. They were then known as American bull terriers and got their official name in 1891, the Boston Terrier. By 1893 they were accepted as a breed by the American Kennel Club. Then the Boston Terrier Club was formed.

They were first bred to be pit fighters but have since become loving companions. In the 1900s, the distinctive colours and markings of the dog became the standard, and that’s how the dog we know today developed.

What is a Boston Terrier Breed?

Boston terriers can be recognised by their coat which looks like a tuxedo jacket, which gave them the nickname “American Gentleman”. They may be small, but they are undoubtedly muscular.

They are part of a class of dogs called brachycephalic dogs due to their flat faces and short muzzles. They have been crossbred with the Pit Bull Terrier, English bulldog, English white terrier, Boxer, English bull terrier, and various other terriers.

Who is a Boston Terrier Best For?

A Boston Terrier is an excellent choice for families. They love children and are incredibly affectionate. As much as they love running around, they are also a good pick for those living in apartments due to their size. However, they will still need to get some exercise.

They get along great with other dogs, while some may prefer to be alone with a one-person owner. A Boston Terrier also takes a strong liking to the elderly and is an excellent choice for first-time owners.

They are very people-oriented dogs, so they are happy being a loyal companion to children and the elderly alike. They are great for seniors as they are not super energetic. They love being with their humans, so make sure that you can give them a lot of time and attention!

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Colours

Boston Terrier Grooming & Shedding

The Boston terrier has a fine coat, and it does not shed too much. However, you should use a soft-bristle brush and brush them weekly. A grooming mitt or tool will do the job, too. This removes excess hair and promotes new growth.

They should also be bathed regularly, at least every 4-8 weeks. Get their nails trimmed every two weeks or at least once per month. Use an ear cleaner to clean their ears each month, and wipe their nose wrinkles, eyes, and face every day.

Keeping them well-groomed will ensure that they are healthy and avoid any infections. It also helps you build a beautiful bond with your dog and instils trust.

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Boston Terriers bark a lot?

Boston Terriers are not very big barkers, but of course, every dog is unique, and some Bostons will bark more than others. Due to their territorial nature, they will bark to protect themselves and their family.

They also bark when playing but generally express their excitement through their body language over a loud bark.

Some of these dogs may bark excessively. The best thing to do then is to remove the stimulus that makes them yap, ignore them, or teach them a quiet command.

What is the average weight & height of a Boston Terrier dog?

The Boston Terrier is well-proportioned and compact. Females are generally around 40cm tall, and males are about 43cm tall.

The adult dog falls into three categories when it comes to weight: the first is under 7 kilograms. Second, 7-9 kilograms. And the last category is 9-11 kilograms.

They have small square heads, short tails, and small ears.

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Size & Weight Chart

Are Boston Terriers easy to train?

Your Boston Terrier should go to puppy training class and get socialised to get along with other dogs early on like all other pets. This way, they can get exposed to various people, situations, and places.

The Boston Terrier dog breed is relatively easy to train. It is one of the reasons they are an excellent choice for first-time pet owners. Use treats as an incentive, and give kind corrections and praise when necessary. They are relatively sensitive, so keep this in mind when training!

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Boston Terriers behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The Boston Terrier is known to be a playful and good-natured dog. They get along with all people and all animals and are very tolerant. They are also intelligent and learn very quickly, and they also love to entertain and are lively.

Many of these dogs are clownish and quite high-spirited, while others are more dignified and calm. They are also sensitive little dogs and highly affectionate.

They were initially fighting dogs, so this aggressive spark can come to the surface from time to time, but they are more companion dogs and are lovers, not fighters. Bostons are also highly social and outgoing, making them popular amongst all living beings!

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Boston Terrier have any common health issues?

Boston Terriers are prone to more health issues than most small dogs. They can suffer from problems such as cherry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, deafness, patellar luxation, and heart murmurs.

It is vital that you protect their eyes, and they should regularly be checked for any irritation or redness. It’s a good idea to carry around some saline eye drops.

They can also have difficulty breathing due to their flat little faces, so keep them out of excessive humidity or heat.

Learn more about: Common Boston Terrier Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Boston Terrier?

According to the American Kennel Club, Boston terriers live 11-13 years on average. Some of them have lived for as long as 15 years. All in all, their lifespan will heavily depend on their diet, genetics, and lifestyle.

Smaller dogs also generally tend to have a longer lifespan than larger dogs do.

How much does a Boston Terrier need to be fed?

Their diet should be appropriate to their age, and they should eat high-quality dog food. Don’t feed them too much or give them too many treats; this will lead to obesity. The smaller your dog, though, the lighter the serving.

The amount you feed your Boston Terrier should depend on their body weight, size, age, activity levels, and metabolism. Their diet should also be rich in essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, water, minerals, and vitamins.

The American Kennel Club recommends avoiding soy, grains, corn, potatoes, and rice. These may give them allergies.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Boston Terrier? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Boston Terrier in Australia?

A Boston terrier puppy can cost you anywhere between $800 and $3000. The price is usually higher if the puppy is delivered via cesarean.

Breeders are more expensive, while adopting or rescuing one will cost you far less. You can also find mini Boston Terriers, these cost around $500 and above. If they have a superior breed line, you can expect to pay anywhere between $1,500 and $4,500.

Learn more about: Boston Terrier Prices In Australia

Boston Terrier FAQs

Are Boston Terriers cuddly?

Yes, they can be and they love a good cuddle with their owners; they may want to cuddle up with you the whole day! Cuddles provide them with affection, warmth, and a great sense of belonging.

Cuddling your Boston terrier will decrease their cortisol levels and increase their oxytocin levels.

Do Boston Terriers suffer from separation anxiety?

These big guard dogs are prone to suffering separation anxiety; they love human connection. They do not have intense separation anxiety, but it does occur. They love being around humans and tend to get bored and panic when left alone.

The best way to avoid this is to train them to get used to being alone from time to time. This way, they will cope a lot better.

Are Boston Terriers ideal for first-time dog owners?

Yes, most definitely! A Boston Terrier is incredibly intelligent, loving, and amenable by nature. They are also easy to maintain, are very social, and are easy to train.

Are Boston Terriers good swimmers?

This breed can be good swimmers, but it all depends on how they have been trained, their behaviour, and their health. They can likely swim the length of a pool and back again, but they should not be left alone to swim for too long.