Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers, also called the Boston bull, are compact and well-muscled dogs. Their faces are unmistakable with a short, wide muzzle, dark, large round eyes set far apart, and small, fine, erect ears. They have a broad, flat head without wrinkles and a short, square muzzle leading to an ample black nose. Its neck is slightly arched and its chest is broad. Its limbs are straight and muscular. Its hair is short, brilliant, and of a fine texture that comes in brindle & white or black & white and some are born brown & white.

The Boston Terrier dog is one of a few breeds that was developed solely in the United States, in the Boston area, about 1870 to 1885. They were bred down from English Bulldog - English terrier crosses bred to similar crosses. By 1889 there were enough fanciers in the Boston area to found the American Bull Terrier Club, but this name was objected to by both the Bulldog and Bull Terrier fanciers, nor was it acceptable to the AKC. The breed name was therefore changed to its present name, Boston Terrier. The AKC recognized the breed in 1893, an incredibly short time after its founding. At first, color and markings were not all that important, but by the early 1900s the breed's singular markings had become a fundamental breed characteristic. By 1929-1935 it was the most popular breed in America, but despite this, overall breed quality has been maintained. It was first registered in Canada in 1888-89.

Though bred at first for use in dog fights, today's Boston Terrier has been bred to have less aggressive tendencies. It is gentle, alert, very intelligent, and well-mannered. Enthusiastic and occasionally rambunctious, this breed has a sense of humor. They are very sensitive to the tone of one's voice. This breed likes to learn and therefore is not difficult to train. Their intelligence ensures they pick things up quickly. At times they can be somewhat willful. Some owners have reported that their dogs are good watchdogs barking only when necessary, while other owners have reported their female Boston Terriers do not bark at the door at all. Most reliable with children, especially good with elderly people and very friendly with strangers. The Boston Terrier is playful, very affectionate and likes to be part of the family. Very popular in the United States, due above all to its excellent character. They generally get along well with non-canine pets. Some males are dominant and may fight with other dogs. These little dogs may be difficult to housebreak.

Boston's enjoy lots of attention from their family. They get along well with other pets, especially when introduced at an early age. Even though they are small, they'll bark to let their family know if someone is at the door. They are highly intelligent dogs.

The Boston Terrier's weight is divided into classes.

Under 15 pounds.

15-20 pounds

20-25 pounds

Weight and height should be proportionate. Their coat is short, smooth and fine in texture. They can be brindle, seal, or black with white markings.

These short-faced dogs may have breathing difficulties when stressed by exertion in hot or cold weather and can overheat if they are pushed too hard. They may also snore or drool. Whelping is often difficult as the pelvis is narrow and the large headed pups are often delivered by cesarean section. Heart and skin tumors are common problems in this breed. The prominent eyes are prone to injury. Some badly bred Boston Terriers may have a bone defect in the skull that stunts brain growth, resulting in a retarded dog.

Both parents should have yearly CERF certificates (eyes) and be screened for luxating patella. Also ask about cataracts, elongated palate, low thyroid, seizures, demodectic mange, and allergies in the lines. Blue-eyed Boston Terrier puppies and those with excessive white markings should come with a BAER printout that shows normal bilateral hearing.

The large, prominent eyes of the Boston Terrier are susceptible to lacerations, infections, and eyelid/eyelash defects. Because of the short face, the breed is prone to heatstroke in hot, humid, and/or stuffy conditions; Boston's love air conditioning. This breed is sensitive to anesthetics and chemicals and should never be casually medicated or sedated.