Boston Terriers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Boston Terrier breed

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The Boston Terrier!

The Boston Terrier, a native American breed, is known for its sunny disposition. This compact, well-muscled dog loves to go for walks and as companions or house pets, they have few equals.

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The Boston Terrier is one of the most popular breeds in the United States and has been rightfully given the name of the American Gentleman because of its affectionate nature. The Boston Terrier is a highly intelligent dog and can sometimes be determined and self willed. Even though they are small, they'll bark to let their family know if someone is at the door.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
10-12 years

Energy Level:
Moderate-low, but needs attention

Living Conditions:
Indoor only

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Minimal; short walks and indoor play.

Breed Group:
Non-Sporting

Size:
Medium-Small

Height:
15-17 inches

Weight:
10-25 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Brindle, seal, or black with white markings on muzzle, between eyes, and forechest, and possibly white collar and lower legs.

National breed club:
The Boston Terrier Club of America

Boston Terrier Skills

Boston Terriers were bred to be companion dogs and they are just that. They quickly become a part of the family and are most happy when they are in the company of family members. They do well around children, adults and even other pets. The Boston Terrier is an excellent house dog, being a nice medium size dog that can be comfortable to have around. They do very well in Obedience, Agility, Flyball, Therapy work and even Weight pulling.

Boston Terrier Personality

The Boston Terrier is intelligent, enthusiastic, affectionate and playful. This breed gets along well with other pets, dogs, and children. The breed has an excellent disposition and a high degree of intelligence, which makes the Boston Terrier an incomparable companion.

Exercise Needs

Boston terriers love to play. Their exercise needs are moderate. No long walks are necessary.

Living Conditions

Bostons require a lot of time and attention. They are, and have been bred to be, companions. They will languish without human contact. They are not "outside" dogs. Boston Terriers are very active dogs that love to play. Without some basic training they may jump on you and maybe even give little nips while playing. Some Bostons have been given up for adoption or dropped off at the local "dog pound" for these very reasons.

Grooming Requirements

The coat of a Boston Terrier is short, smooth, bright and fine in texture. Not much grooming is required for Boston Terriers. Occasional brushing should be sufficient.

Health Issues

Because Boston Terriers have large and beautiful but somewhat protruding eyes, protecting them is extremely important. There are over 20 different eye diseases that are known to occur in Boston Terriers so this is very important. The top problem in the breed is cataracts (juvenile cataracts and cataracts of old age). There have also been reported cases of corneal ulcers. Sun exposure for long periods of time must be avoided. They should never be allowed to stick their heads out of automobile windows because the air pressure on the eyes is bad (true for any dog).

Further Information

For more information on boston terriers you should consider building a relationship with a local breeder. Good breeders love their breed and are happy to answer any questions you might have. By talking with several good boston terrier breeders you can get a fuller picture of the breed and a sense of the price you should expect to pay for a purebred puppy.

You should always get your new dog from a reputable breeder or adopt from a shelter or rescue. The Dog Guide strongly advocates for dog adoption. If you'd like help training your boston terrier, feel free to check out our articles on dog training.