What Are Boston Terriers Like?

The first Boston terrier appeared in the 1870s as the offspring of a bulldog and a white English terrier. The breed rapidly gained popularity, and in 1879 it was named the official state dog of Massachusetts. The American Kennel Club recognized this dog in 1893, declaring that it was the first entirely American breed.

  1. Physical Characteristics

    • Boston terriers are medium-sized dogs, usually weighing between 15 and 25 pounds, with a compact build and square proportions that give them an appearance of strength and agility. The breed's square head is clean cut and flat on top, with a short muzzle, and its wide-set round eyes show alertness and intelligence. These dogs have short coats that are black, seal or brindle in coloring, all with white markings, including the characteristic white blaze on its face.

    Disposition

    • According to the AKC, the original breeders sought to create a new breed for dog fights, but today Boston terriers are known for their gentle disposition. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, two traits that add up to a good choice for a companion dog and household pet. In addition, Boston terriers are among the breeds making a name as therapy dogs at senior centers and hospitals. At home, they thrive on close interaction with their owners. If they are left outdoors alone or isolated most of the time, they languish and become quite unhappy. Owners who work with their Boston terriers in activities such as agility trials or fly-ball competitions are rewarded with close bonds to their happy dogs.

    Nutritional Needs

    • Healthy Boston terriers require only a moderate amount of daily care. For food, they do well on a diet of small- to medium-sized kibble, either alone or mixed with a small amount of canned food. The small pieces of food are encouraged for this breed because their short faces, undershot jaws and elongated soft palates may lead to choking on larger bites. Kibble with high levels of corn or soy ingredients may increase the flatulence that is common in Boston terriers.

    Daily Care

    • Boston terriers are active dogs. They enjoy outdoor exercise with a walk, play or training session daily. Grooming this breed's short coat takes just a few minutes of brushing every day or two, with a longer session weekly for any needed cleaning and trimming, along with an overall inspection, particularly focusing on the dog's ears and eyes.

    Health Issues

    • While the average lifespan of Boston terriers is 10 to 14 years, there are some breed-specific health issues that may cause problems for an individual dog. The terrier's face, with its pushed-in nose and short muzzle, may create breathing difficulties and cause panting all the time. Bostons are also subject to an above-average rate of canine heart disease, dislocated kneecaps and seizures. Their eyes are at risk for inherited glaucoma and cataracts, as well as corneal abrasions caused by the eyes protruding position in the face.