Boston Terrier Breed Characteristics
Height
38 to 43 cm at the shoulder
Weight
10 to 25 pounds
Life Expectancy
11 to 13 years
Coat Colours
Black, brindle, seal
Boston Terrier
Earnest, amiable and affectionate
About the Boston Terrier
In the 19th century, the Boston Terrier was called the American Gentleman, a name the breed continues to live up to, even today. Their irresistibly cute facial expressions and charming demeanour make them a favourite among urban dog lovers.
Their happy personalities are evidenced by the big goofy grin that they often have on their faces. Boston Terriers bond closely with their family, and absolutely love playing around with children.
The Boston Terrier can be intense, which can make them intimidating to shy or sensitive dogs. Socialising and training your Boston Terrier will be important for them to learn proper doggy etiquette.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Boston Terrier, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
4/5
Friendly with Kids
5/5
Friendly with Dogs
5/5
Ease of Grooming
5/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
Prey Drive
2/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
3/5
Good for Novice Owners
5/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Boston Terrier Breed History
Even though it’s named the Boston Terrier, that’s not actually where this breed started. The roots of the breed can be traced back to Liverpool, England. It’s thought that the breed was the product of crossbreeding an English Bulldog and a White English Terrier.
One of these dogs by the name of Judge would be brought to America and become the ancestor of all modern Boston Terriers. The Boston Terrier Club of America named their dogs that way to avoid conflict with other bull terrier and bulldog clubs.
At one point, they became the most popular dogs in America. To this day it is still the official dog of Massachusetts. However, the breed has successfully gone global. Dog lovers the world over know of the Boston Terrier and its larger-than-life personality.
Caring For a Boston Terrier
- Temperament: Boston Terrier puppies are intelligent, lively animals who love to spend time with adults, kids, and other dogs. They’re exuberant and outgoing, and affectionate with people they trust.
- Grooming: They have a short, sleek easy-care coat that only needs minimal brushing every week.
- Exercise: The high energy level and lively personality of the breed carries on into its exercise needs. They will need up to an hour of exercise each day.
- Nutrition: Adult Boston Terriers will need around 1 to 1 ½ cups of dry dog food each day, split into two meals. A Boston Terrier puppy will need around that amount, split into three or four meals. You can consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.
- Training: The high intelligence of this breed means they pick up on training quickly, and their curious nature makes them excited to learn new tricks. A reward-based training style garners the best results.
How to Choose a Responsible Boston Terrier Breeder
If you are thinking of buying a Boston Terrier puppy, then you should look for reputable Boston Terrier breeders who know how to raise their dogs. Do research into the breeder before committing to a sale, and always ask about any genetic issues the breeder’s dogs may have.
It’s also good to visit the breeder’s premises since this will see the conditions in which your puppy will spend the first eight weeks of their life. A puppy that has sufficient enrichment in a clean, comfortable environment will turn out to be healthier, happier and better-behaved. If possible, ask to meet the dam and stud as well, so that you can better gauge what the puppy’s temperament will be like.
Boston Terrier FAQ
Are Boston Terriers hypoallergenic?
No. They do not shed heavily, but they do still shed and produce dander, which is the real cause of the allergic reaction.
Are Boston Terriers aggressive?
No, they are not naturally prone to aggression, despite their ancestors being bred to be pit fighting dogs.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Boston Terrier
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
How to Become a Responsible Breeder
Apply
Within 24 Hours You’ll Hear Back From Us
Review
Our In-house Veterinarian Reviews Your Photos & Application
Members of our community get free access to...
Sample Pet Contracts
($1200+ value)
Exclusive Discounts
($980+ value)
Educational Breeder
Checklists
Certified Custom
Badge
Protected by breeder verification
"I felt reassured I could verify them and have the confidence to know they are coming from a loving, good home and a responsible breeder."
- Brenda, RPBA Buyer
Example of member discounts
RPBA have partnered with well known pet brands to offer discounts for puppy essentials, supplements, training, toys, and much more. Here is a preview of just some of the many RPBA member-exclusive discounts:
Orivet Genetic Pet Care
Black Hawk Food
Greenbah Pet Supplies
Pampered Paws Pet Products
Pet-Mat
- Access To Much More Member Discounts