Boston Terrier Puppies

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The Intelligent, Affectionate, and Lively Boston Terrier

Also known as the "American Gentleman" due to its tuxedo-like patterns, the Boston Terrier is an affectionate, highly active dog. Despite its rather ferocious background of being bred for pit fighting, this breed has since evolved to become a friendly, intelligent family pet. Be aware of their propensity for stubbornness, which can be a blessing and curse.


Boston Terrier At a Glance

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Boston Terrier At a Glance

  • Size: 12"-15", 13-15 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Sleek, short, and fine
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Non-Sporting
  • Common Nicknames: The American Gentleman, Boston Bull, Boston Bull Terrier, Boxwood

Boston Terrier Breed Guide

Learn More About Boston Terriers

  • Temperament

    Boston Terriers are intelligent, affectionate, and lively with a gentle, easy going temperament. They have a tendency to be a bit stubborn, though, so it's important that Boston Terriers receive consistent and thorough training. However, they're very clever and eager to learn, so training a Boston isn't too challenging. Boston Terriers are generally friendly, but, like all dogs, they should be socialized at an early age so they can get used to other people and animals. Without adequate socialization, this breed may become assertive and aloof toward people and dogs they do not know. Boston Terriers love to play, but they don't require a ton of exercise, making them a great choice for apartment living.

  • Health

    The Boston Terrier is susceptible to many health problems and conditions. Their notorious, squished-in face creates breathing problems for them, they generally give birth by cesarean section, they're prone to allergies, and they can face many health issues, especially concerning their eyes. These conditions include cataracts, cherry eye, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, deafness, patellar luxation, brain tumors, heart murmurs, reverse sneezing, allergies, and megaesophagus. Additionally, Boston Terriers are not built to withstand hot or cold temperatures, easily overheating, freezing, and having trouble breathing.

  • Activity Level

    Although well behaved indoors as well as mostly inactive, the Boston Terrier does require about an hour or so of exercise daily. Although a brisk game of tug of war is also enough on some days, you should be sure to get a session in.

  • Grooming

    Boston Terriers don't require a lot of grooming. This breed needs brushed once a week and bathed around once a month. The Boston Terrier needs its face cleaned and its eyes checked for any irritation on a daily basis.

  • Shedding

    Boston Terriers shed lightly throughout the year but are not a good fit for people with allergies. This breed is highly prone to allergy troubles itself with increased mucus that can create reactions in people with allergies.

  • Appearance

    A short, stocky appearance makes this breed distinctive along with erect ears and a smooth coat. Their eyes are widely set, and ears can be either cropped or natural. Their black nose is set in a short muzzle with a square appearance.

  • History

    The Boston Terrier originated in Boston, Massachusetts in the mid 1800s. When some wealthy Boston residents decided to cross some of their finest dogs, the Boston Terrier was formed via a cross between a Bulldog and a (now extinct) English White Terrier. Shortly after the breed became its own, its popularity skyrocketed. The Boston Terrier was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1893, less than 20 years after the breed was developed. By the early 1900s, the Boston quickly gained popularity throughout the rest of the United States and soon became one of America's most popular dog breeds. So, it's no surprise that Boston Terriers are owned and loved by so many people today.