This wonderful breed has been around more than 100 years and they are known to be gentle and affectionate companions. Their black and white markings have helped them be nicknamed the American Gentleman of dogs.
They are a compact bundle of fun!
Breed History
Something we found interesting when researching this breed is that they were originally bred to be fighters in a pit. However, this little guy is definitely a lover and not a fighter but they may tend to posture a bit if they are threatened by another canine.
They are named after the city in which they were bred, Boston, Massachusetts in the late 1800s. The Boston terrier is one of the oldest breeds recognized by the American kennel club, getting that designation in 1893.
In 1915, Boston terriers were the most popular breed in America and there were 60 Bostons entered in a single breed show in 1918.
Appearance
Typically, Boston terriers stand between 12 and 15 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 10 to 25 pounds. They are sturdy dogs and should never look skinny.
They have a smooth coat that can come in three different colors: black, seal or brindle. They all have a white muzzle with a face blaze and white on their chests.
They never come in a solid color and if a breeder tries to sell you a puppy as being a “rare” solid color, that is the mark of a substandard breeder.
Personality
Because these dogs are terriers, and can be terrier tough, they tend to be more stubborn than other breeds. It’s important to be consistent and persistent with them when you’re training and remember to keep training throughout their lives.
They are very sensitive to a raised voice or harsh sounding words and this behavior can make them shut down and not to listen to you. Keep your training fun and give them motivation to learn. A clicker and treat that they like will get you everything you’re looking for.
When house training, use a crate because that is the most effective method for them.
Health Concerns
Any purebred dog can inherit genetic illnesses. For the Boston terrier, you will want to keep a lookout for cataracts, cherry eye (a prolapse of the gland connected to the nictitating or third eyelid) and allergies.
Ask for health clearance certificates on the puppies and the parents.
Trainability
Early training and sociability is very important for a Boston terrier who, as we have noted, can be stubborn. Enroll her in puppy kindergarten class as soon as possible and continue training throughout her life. Early socialization with humans as well as other animals is a good plan.
Grooming Requirements
Because the Boston’s fur is so short, brushing them once a week with a firm bristle brush will keep them looking good. They don’t need to be bathed often but you should check their faces every day, especially their eyes for any signs of redness are irritation.
Brush her teeth a couple of times a week and trim her nails and, of course, take her to the veterinarian once a year.
Thinking About Adding A Boston Terrier To Your Family?
Please consider adopting before purchasing and please avoid purchasing an animal from a pet store. You can find purebred Boston Terriers & mixes in need of good homes. Click here to search for you a Boston Terrier in need of adoption near you: <Petfinder>
Photo Credit: istockphoto.com
