Boston Terrier
Summary
The Boston Terrier is the only American breed included in FCI Group 9 and a national pride of the United States, where it earned the nickname "The American Gentleman" for its coat pattern that evokes a tuxedo. It was bred in Boston in the late 19th century by crossing English Bulldogs with the now-extinct English White Terrier, and was one of the first American breeds to be recognized by the AKC (1893). Despite the name "Terrier," it was not bred to hunt but rather as a companion dog.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 38–43 cm
- Height (female)
- 35–40 cm
- Weight (male)
- 6–11 kg
- Weight (female)
- 5–10 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 11–13 years
- Coat
- Short, smooth, fine, and shiny
- Common Colors
- Brindle with white, seal with white, black with white (the pattern necessarily includes white: white muzzle, white blaze between the eyes, and white chest)
Temperament & Personality
The Boston Terrier is an energetic, cheerful, and very sociable dog, with a disposition that balances terrier liveliness with companion dog gentleness. It is intelligent and easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement. It gets along well with children and other animals when socialized from an early age. It is an excellent apartment dog, as long as it has regular exercise. Its permanently amused expression and its large, round eyes make it irresistible.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 30–45 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 3–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (mild)
- Deafness
- Eye problems
- Hemivertebra (vertebral malformation)
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Recommended Health Tests
- Airway evaluation
- BAER test for deafness
- Eye examination
- Orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
