Boston Terrier dog is a very beautiful breed of dog. It has been popular since their creation. And the breed was originally bred to be fighting dogs, but today, they are gentle, affectionate companion dogs.
The Boston Terrier dogs were originated in the United States. And the breed is also known by some other names such as Boston Bull, Boston Bull Terrier, Boxwood and American Gentlemen.
The breed originated around 1875, when Robert C. Hooper of Boston purchased from Edward Burnett a dog named Judge (known later as Hooper’s Judge), which was of a bull and terrier type lineage.
Hooper’s Judge is directly related to the original bull and terrier breeds of the 19th and early 20th Centuries. And the American Kennel Club cites Hooper’s Judge as the ancestor of all true modern Boston Terriers.
The breed was originally bred for fighting as well as hunting rats in garment factories, they were later down bred for companionship. They are not considered terriers by the American Kennel Club, however, but are part of the non-sporting group.[1]
Boston Terrier Dog Characteristics
The Boston Terrier is a compactly built, well-proportioned dog. It has a square-looking head with erect ears and a slightly arched neck. The muzzle is short and generally wrinkle-free, with an even or a slightly undershot bite.
The chest of the Boston Terrier dog is broad and the tail is short. The breed is characteristically marked with white in proportion to either black, brindle, seal, or a combination of the three. Any other color is not accepted as a Boston Terrier by the AKC.
Large, prominent pair of eyes is a distinguishable feature of the Boston Terrier dog. Round eyes of the Boston Terrier dog are set widely apart, are large in size, and located squarely in the skull.
The Boston Terrier is a relatively smaller sized breed. Their average height is between 9 and 15 inches at the withers. And average live body weight of the mature dog is between 3 and 11 kg.
Temperament
The Boston Terrier is a gentle breed of dog that typically has a strong, happy-go-lucky, and friendly personality with a merry sense of humor. They are generally eager to please their owner and can be easily trained.
They can be very protective of their owners, which may result in aggressive and territorial behavior toward other pets and strangers.
Both male and female Boston Terrier dogs are generally quiet and bark only when necessary. Although, early training in this regard is essential. Their usually sensible attitude towards barking makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers. They generally enjoy being around people, get along well with children, the elderly, other canines, and non-canine pets, if properly socialized.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Boston Terrier dog is between 13 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Boston Terrier dogs are smaller in size and are moderately active. So, their diet should be formulated for a small-sized breed with average exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Boston Terrier dogs. They are lively dog, but don’t have excessive exercise requirements. They are relatively inactive indoors and well suited for apartment dwellers or those who don’t have a yard.
They enjoy taking a walk with the owner and playing in a yard, but are definitely indoor dogs and should never be housed outside. And always remember that, these dogs can’t handle the cold or heat very well.
They have a short, shiny and smooth coat. And they only require a minimal amount of grooming.
Health
The Boston Terrier dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include allergies, deafness, hip or elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts, cherry eye, patellar luxation and von Willebrand’s disease. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Boston Terrier |
| Other Names | Also known by some other names such as Boston Bull, Boston Bull Terrier, Boxwood and American Gentlemen |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Height | Between 9 and 15 inches at the withers |
| Weight | Between 3 and 11 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Brindle with White, Seal with White and Black with White |
| Lifespan | Between 13 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | United States |
