Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:n/a
  • Size:Small
  • Ease of Training:Medium
  • Grooming:Low
  • Shedding:Low
  • Exercise Needed:Occasional walk and run
  • Energy Level:Medium
  • Protection:High, will bark to alert you of strangers
  • Good with Children:Yes
  • Health Clearances:OFA, CERF, BAER
  • Weight:10-25 lbs
  • Height:15-17 inches
  • Coat Colour:Brindle, seal, or black with white markings on muzzle, between eyes, and fore chest, and possibly white collar and lower legs

Boston Terrier Coat

The Boston Terrier has a coat that is fine in texture, short, glossy, and smooth. The colour of the coat comes in black with white markings, seal, and brindle. Occasionally the coat will come in brown with white markings. This breed is an average shedder.

Boston Terrier Character

The Boston Terrier is compact, sturdy, and small but is not delicate or fragile. This breed has a kind and gentle nature and is often referred to as the American Gentleman. They are lively, high-spirited, and playful. This dapper dog is a delightful combination of determination, strength, balance, and gracefulness.

Boston Terrier Temperament

Highly intelligent, alert, and enthusiastic, the Boston Terrier is affectionate and loyal. This breed is quite animated and has a lovely sense of humor. They thrive on human interaction and on being an integral part of the family. They do best in a home with children over the age of eight years and are exceedingly good with the elderly. They will generally get along with non-canine pets, although males may fight with other dogs. The Boston Terrier has a very sensitive nature and will be affected either positively or negatively by tone of voice or the home atmosphere and environment.

Boston Terrier Care

Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush will minimize loose hair. This breed should be bathed only when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. The Boston Terrier has a tendency to drool so frequent wiping of the face is recommended.

Boston Terrier Activity

Relatively inactive indoors, the Boston Terrier is quite content to just be with the family at all times. However, regular daily exercise is a must to keep this breed fit and in shape. They benefit from and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and free play in a safely fenced area. Boston Terriers do well in an apartment, condominium, or city dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, attention, and stimulation.

Boston Terrier Health and Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the Boston Terrier is around 10-14 years. There are a number of health problems that you will need to look out for with this breed, and these include luxating patella, epilepsy, heart problems, deafness, heart problems, allergies, thyroid problems, seizures, skin infections, eye infections, and sensitivity to chemicals and medications. Because he is a very short haired dog, extreme heat can make him susceptible to sunstroke. He may also suffer respiratory problems if over-exercised because of his short muzzle, so exercise should always be moderated and not in extreme temperatures.