Boston Terrier Dog Training

Respected for its intelligence, quick-learning, affection and attention-craving behavior, the Boston terrier has become one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Originating in the U.S., the Boston terrier may be a mix between a French bulldog and English white terrier. Originally bred for fighting, in the 19th century these pups were known as bulldog terriers and were trained aggressively. However, this breed is much gentler now and does not have the fighting-dog breed behaviors of the pincher or purebred bulldog.

  1. Temperament

    • Every dog trains differently. Some accept commands with ease and, for others, learning a command takes longer. Just like children, a dog needs to be given time, attention and positive reinforcement when learning or the dog might misbehave. According to the dog breed and training website MyDogBreed.com, generally the temperament of a Boston Terrier is gentle and well-mannered.

      As an affectionate and loving dog breed, the terrier is also intelligent, eager to learn and is loyal to his owner and family. The terrier loves to be part of a family and, craving attention, generally hates to be alone. So, when training, keep in mind that the Boston terrier wants to please you and enjoys being in your company if you are a kind and compassionate leader.

    Socialization

    • According to MyDogBreed.com, Boston terrier pups require early socialization. Socialization means giving your terrier lots of attention, affection and discipline so she is constantly learning about you and her abilities. Making the puppy feel safe and secure is crucial. A Boston terrier needs to know you are in charge and are a trustworthy guardian. With early puppy training, choose one word for discipline and one word for praise to remain consistent. For example, use "no" when your terrier acts up and "good boy/girl" to praise good behavior. Staying consistent helps your terrier understand what actions are positive and negative.

    Leader

    • Terriers, like all dogs, need a strong guide.

      According to training information on YourPureBredPuppy.com, all dogs crave a trustworthy leader. The Boston terrier also respects and needs a strong and compassionate leader who will feed them, protect them and play with them.

      Some new dog owners and trainers fear that their new pup doesn't like them or won't like them if they're too strict. Like a child, a dog will take advantage of this kind of lackadaisical behavior and take control instead. A Boston terrier may tug back on leash, not come when you call, chew and misbehave. The terrier wants to know what your commands mean. But it takes a strong leader to empower his dog by teaching commands and tricks in a positive but assertive manner.

      The Boston terrier is a dog that loves the company of others. According to KingdomOfPets.com training section, if your terrier is whining and crying at your morning departure or when you step out the door at night, this separation anxiety is normal. The crying will cease when they know you always come back home to care for them.

    Listening and Commands

    • From the age of 3 to 6 months, Boston terrier puppies absorb commands like such as, lie down, and stay. Focusing your attention on these commands significantly increases your terrier's ability to learn other, more complex commands later on in training. Also, saying "no" to rambunctious or intermittent barking, jumping on strangers and tugging on a leash is important. Because the Boston terrier belongs to an intelligent and largely respectful breed, it learns commands quickly if training is consistent.

      When the terrier is 6 to 10 months old, it is important to his development that he learns to pay attention while you speak. Also training your terrier to play fetch, heel while walking on a leash and a fun trick such as shaking your hand will increase his intelligence and esteem. Because the terrier likes attention and wants to please you, it won't be long until he shows off what he learned.

    Housebreaking

    • For Boston terriers, use crate training. To make sure he does not wet the couch or bed, provide the terrier with a comfortable blanket in a large crate. Making sure it is not too hot or cold, the crate should be a place of security and privacy where the puppy will learn it cannot relieve himself. Take your terrier out right before his bedtime and the first thing in the morning to make sure there are no accidents at night. As young puppies, terriers often still want to go in the middle of the night. When you hear him whining and crying, let him out to relieve himself.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • Treat your dog to dog bones or kind words when he behaves well.

      Boston terriers, like other dog breeds, perform and behave better with positive reinforcement, not harsh punishment. Offer heaps of praise when your terrier comes when you call or does a neat trick. You can also give a treat. Because the Boston terrier likes you and wants you to like her, punishing or scolding your terrier during a training lesson makes her feel defeated and embarrassed. With patience, training is not too difficult and owners can look forward to a kind and well-behaved pet.