Border Terrier vs Boston Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Border Terrier
Terrier Group
Boston Terrier
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Border Terrier Overview
Border Terriers possess a distinctive otter-like head, alert expression, and sturdy, well-proportioned frame. Their rough double coat, typically grizzle and tan or blue and tan, provides protection in all weather conditions. Standing 12-15 inches at the shoulder, these agile terriers combine a determined spirit with an affectionate nature, displaying remarkable stamina and intelligence in their movements.
Boston Terrier 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 Differences
- Energy Level: Border Terriers are less energetic than Boston Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Border Terriers require less grooming attention compared to Boston Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Border Terriers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Boston Terriers.
- Trainability: Boston Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Boston Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Border Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Boston Terriers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Border Terrier and Boston Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Border Terrier | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 11-13 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Border Terrier | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 15-17 inches 38-43 cm |
| Weight | 11-15 lbs 5-7 kg | 12-25 lbs 5-11 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Infrequent |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Border Terrier | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Happy, Plucky | Friendly, Bright, Amusing |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Border Terrier | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Border Terrier Temperament
The Border Terrier is known for being affectionate, happy, plucky, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Boston Terrier Temperament
The Boston Terrier is characterized by being friendly, bright, amusing, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Border Terrier and Boston Terrier, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Border Terrier
Rating: 5/5
Boston Terrier
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Boston Terrier
Rating: 4/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Boston Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Border Terrier
Rating: 1/5
Boston Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Boston Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Border Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Border Terriers require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Border Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Boston Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Boston Terriers need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Boston Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Border Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- SLEM
- Heart defects
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
Boston Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Patellar Luxation
- Cataracts
- Cherry Eye
- Deafness
Pros & Cons
Border Terrier
Pros
- Excellent with families
- Adaptable to different living situations
- Low grooming requirements
- Good with children
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
- May dig and bark
- Needs consistent exercise
Boston Terrier
Pros
- Great with families
- Compact size
- Low grooming needs
- Adaptable
- Friendly personality
Cons
- Breathing difficulties
- Heat sensitive
- Potential snoring
- Some stubbornness
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Border Terrier and Boston Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.