Boston Terrier
Quick Summary
Friendly, adaptable companions ideal for various households. Best suited for owners seeking an affectionate, low-maintenance pet comfortable in apartments or houses.
Contents
Weight Range
12-25 lbs
♂ Male: 12-25 lbs
♀ Female: 12-25 lbs
Height Range
38-43 inches
♂ Male: 15-17"
♀ Female: 15-17"
Life Expectancy
11-13 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s, these dogs were bred from bull and terrier types to create a refined companion dog for city dwellers
Popularity
#21
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 15"-17" |
| Female Height | 15"-17" |
| Male Weight | 12-25 lbs |
| Female Weight | 12-25 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-2000 for purchase, plus vaccinations and supplies. Monthly expenses cover food ($30-50), grooming ($30-40), and preventive care. Regular vet check-ups and potential health issues add to costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Boston Terriers combine gentle affection with playful energy. Their friendly, outgoing nature makes them excellent companions. Highly social and adaptable, they typically get along well with everyone, including other pets.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other pets and dogs. Can handle short periods alone but prefer company. Excellent family companions.
Breed Overview
Boston Terriers feature a distinctive tuxedo-like coat pattern with a compact, muscular build and endearing round eyes. Their square head, short muzzle, and erect ears create an alert, intelligent expression. Standing 15-17 inches tall, these charming companions combine gentle affection with playful energy, making them delightful family pets known for their adaptable nature and amusing personality.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Great with families
- ✓ Compact size
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Adaptable
- ✓ Friendly personality
Cons
- ✗ Breathing difficulties
- ✗ Heat sensitive
- ✗ Potential snoring
- ✗ Some stubbornness
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Bright, Amusing |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Boston Terriers require 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate intensity level suits their energy, with indoor games and short outdoor adventures being ideal.
Diet & Nutrition
Feed 1-2 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Consider special kibble size for flat-faced breeds. Monitor weight closely as breed can be prone to obesity. Adjust portions based on activity level.
Feed 1-2 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose food appropriate for small breeds and flat-faced dogs. Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited for apartments and houses, requiring minimal space. Thrives in temperature-controlled environments due to their short muzzles. Adaptable to urban or suburban settings.
Minimal space requirements make them ideal for apartment living. Adapt well to any home environment with adequate indoor space for play. Temperature-controlled settings preferred due to breathing sensitivity.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bred in Boston during the late 19th century, these dogs emerged from crossing English Bulldogs with white English Terriers. Local stable owners developed the breed to create a smaller, more refined companion version of fighting dogs.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s, these dogs were bred from bull and terrier types to create a refined companion dog for city dwellers.
Fun Fact
Known as 'American Gentleman' due to their tuxedo-like coat pattern and gentle, courteous nature.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Sensitive to extreme temperatures due to flat face. Regular eye cleaning needed. Moderate exercise requirements with attention to breathing during activity.