Dog Breeds - Boston Terrier

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The tendency of a breed to be affectionate towards family members and people they know well varies. Some breeds may be more aloof and reserved, showing affection primarily towards their owners, while others have a more outgoing and friendly nature, treating everyone they know like their best friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, is an important consideration. Dogs should always be supervised around young children or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important consideration when it comes to dog-to-dog interactions. While dogs should always be supervised during interactions and introductions with other dogs certain breeds tend to be more naturally inclined to get along with other dogs both at home and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to shed is an important factor to consider, as it can impact the level of grooming required and potential allergies. Breeds that shed heavily will generally need more frequent brushing to manage loose hair and they may also require more frequent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, should be taken into account based on the time, patience, and budget you have available for such care. The frequency of bathing varies among breeds and is typically influenced by factors such as coat type, activity level, and overall cleanliness. Some breeds require regular baths to keep their coats clean and healthy while others may only need occasional bathing as they naturally stay cleaner.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary widely, and it's an important consideration for individuals who prioritize cleanliness. Some breeds are more prone to drooling, leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating large wet spots on your clothes.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Some breeds tend to be naturally reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location or context. These breeds may require more time to warm up to unfamiliar individuals and may display a more protective or aloof demeanor.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
LIVELINESSThe level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds, and it's an important consideration when choosing a dog that matches your preferred activity level. Some breeds maintain their playfulness and enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others may prefer a more relaxed and low-key lifestyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you when strangers are around is an important consideration for those seeking a dog that will notify them of potential threats. Some breeds are naturally more alert and vigilant reacting to any perceived threat or unfamiliar presence, whether it's the mailman, a squirrel outside the window, or a stranger approaching the house.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The ease with which a breed handles change can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are known for their adaptability and resilience comfortably adjusting to various changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more flexible and adaptable to new environments or routines.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Experience the convenience of teaching your beloved four-legged friend and witness their enthusiastic embrace of novel information. Certain breeds eagerly strive to bring delight to their owners, diligently adhering to instructions, whereas others exhibit a penchant for asserting their independence opting to act according to their own wishes, unrestricted by time or place.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of physical activity and mental engagement required by different breeds varies significantly. High-energy breeds exhibit a fervent enthusiasm for action and are constantly seeking out new adventures. These dogs eagerly partake in activities such as running, jumping, and playing, filling their day with joyful movement.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization in a breed can vary significantly, ranging from constant barking or howling to selective instances of communication. Certain breeds tend to bark at any sight of a passer-by or a bird near a window, while others reserve their barks for specific situations. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds may still express themselves vocally through alternative sounds finding unique ways to communicate their thoughts and emotions.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The extent to which a breed vocalizes can vary widely, encompassing anything from incessant barking or howling to more intermittent communication. Some breeds are prone to barking at every passing person or bird that catches their attention through a window, while others tend to reserve their vocalizations for particular circumstances. Interestingly, even breeds that are considered barkless may still express themselves audibly through alternative sounds, employing diverse methods to convey their thoughts and emotions.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The tendency of a breed to be affectionate towards family members and people they know well varies. Some breeds may be more aloof and reserved, showing affection primarily towards their owners, while others have a more outgoing and friendly nature, treating everyone they know like their best friend.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, is an important consideration. Dogs should always be supervised around young children or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important consideration when it comes to dog-to-dog interactions. While dogs should always be supervised during interactions and introductions with other dogs certain breeds tend to be more naturally inclined to get along with other dogs both at home and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to shed is an important factor to consider, as it can impact the level of grooming required and potential allergies. Breeds that shed heavily will generally need more frequent brushing to manage loose hair and they may also require more frequent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, should be taken into account based on the time, patience, and budget you have available for such care. The frequency of bathing varies among breeds and is typically influenced by factors such as coat type, activity level, and overall cleanliness. Some breeds require regular baths to keep their coats clean and healthy while others may only need occasional bathing as they naturally stay cleaner.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary widely, and it's an important consideration for individuals who prioritize cleanliness. Some breeds are more prone to drooling, leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating large wet spots on your clothes.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Some breeds tend to be naturally reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location or context. These breeds may require more time to warm up to unfamiliar individuals and may display a more protective or aloof demeanor.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

LIVELINESSThe level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds, and it's an important consideration when choosing a dog that matches your preferred activity level. Some breeds maintain their playfulness and enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others may prefer a more relaxed and low-key lifestyle.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The tendency of a breed to alert you when strangers are around is an important consideration for those seeking a dog that will notify them of potential threats. Some breeds are naturally more alert and vigilant reacting to any perceived threat or unfamiliar presence, whether it's the mailman, a squirrel outside the window, or a stranger approaching the house.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The ease with which a breed handles change can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are known for their adaptability and resilience comfortably adjusting to various changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more flexible and adaptable to new environments or routines.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Experience the convenience of teaching your beloved four-legged friend and witness their enthusiastic embrace of novel information. Certain breeds eagerly strive to bring delight to their owners, diligently adhering to instructions, whereas others exhibit a penchant for asserting their independence opting to act according to their own wishes, unrestricted by time or place.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The level of physical activity and mental engagement required by different breeds varies significantly. High-energy breeds exhibit a fervent enthusiasm for action and are constantly seeking out new adventures. These dogs eagerly partake in activities such as running, jumping, and playing, filling their day with joyful movement.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

When Necessary

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The extent to which a breed vocalizes can vary widely, encompassing anything from incessant barking or howling to more intermittent communication. Some breeds are prone to barking at every passing person or bird that catches their attention through a window, while others tend to reserve their vocalizations for particular circumstances. Interestingly, even breeds that are considered barkless may still express themselves audibly through alternative sounds, employing diverse methods to convey their thoughts and emotions.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black & White	019
Black Brindle & White	021
Brindle & White	059
Seal & White	170
Seal Brindle & White	172

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The Boston Terrier is a vibrant and charming companion known for its compact size, sleek tuxedo-like coat, and friendly demeanor evident in its large round eyes. Often referred to as "The American Gentleman," this breed exemplifies impeccable manners. Boston Terriers are well-proportioned, short-tailed dogs that typically weigh no more than 25 pounds. Their distinctive coat can feature combinations of black, brindle or seal (dark brown) along with white. With a square head, short muzzle, and expressive eyes, they exude kindness, curiosity, and a touch of mischief. Being highly alert to their surroundings Bostons move with a lively and rhythmic gait.

As the name suggests, breeds associated with urban settings such as Havanese or Brussels Griffon tend to make great city pets and Boston Terriers are no exception. They strike a balance between sturdiness and portability, possess a fondness for human interaction and eagerly embrace outings to parks or outdoor cafes. The clever nature of these delightful canines adds a touch of comedy to their vibrant personality making the Boston Terrier a consistent source of joy and smiles.

What to Expect When Caring for a Boston Terrier

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs, as sentient beings, require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health, emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Boston Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Ensuring the well-being of the Boston Terrier's distinct and striking eyes holds great significance. It is imperative to perform daily checks for signs of redness or irritation. To mitigate issues arising from dust or debris, some owners find it beneficial to carry saline eye drops to cleanse their Boston Terrier's eyes. Responsible breeders diligently assess their breeding stock for potential eye ailments such as cataracts, corneal ulcers and glaucoma as well as other health concerns like deafness and patellar luxation (similar to a "trick knee" in humans). It is worth noting that akin to other flat-faced breeds, Boston Terriers may experience breathing difficulties if not provided with sufficient shelter from excessive heat or humidity. Being aware of these considerations is vital in upholding the overall health and happiness of this captivating breed. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Patella Evaluation BAER Testing Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Boston Terrier's smooth and refined coat does shed to some extent, although not excessively. Regular brushing on a weekly basis using a soft-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove will aid in removing loose hair. This brushing routine not only helps to control shedding but also stimulates new hair growth and evenly distributes the natural skin oils, ensuring a healthy coat. Bathing is only necessary on an occasional basis unless the Boston Terrier happens to explore something messy. It is important to remember that like all breeds the Boston Terrier's nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming overly long. Lengthy nails can cause discomfort and interfere with the dog's mobility and overall ability to walk and run properly.

Exercise

	Black and Tan Coonhounds require a moderate amount of exercise on a daily basis to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. This can be achieved through activities such as play sessions in a secure yard or long walks. It's important to note that the strong hunting instincts of Black and Tans make it necessary to have a tall and sturdy fence in the yard to prevent them from chasing after small animals. During walks, they should always be kept on a leash to ensure their safety. Engaging in hunting activities can be an excellent option for exercise and mental stimulation for Black and Tan Coonhounds. They have a natural talent for hunting and can be trained to track and assist in hunting various game, such as squirrels or deer, depending on local regulations and laws. Participating in coonhound field events, where they can showcase their skills and instincts, is also enjoyable for them. It’s important to note that every dog is an individual, and their exercise needs may vary. Consulting with a veterinarian or a professional trainer can help determine the appropriate exercise routine and activities for your Black and Tan Coonhound based on their age, health, and individual preferences.

Training

	It is highly recommended to provide early socialization and enroll Boston Terriers in puppy training classes, just like with any other breed. Socialization involves gradually introducing the puppy to different people, places, and situations in a gentle manner. This helps them develop into well-adjusted and well-behaved adults. Using treats as training incentives can be effective with many Boston Terriers. It's important to note that this breed can be quite sensitive, and therefore, any necessary corrections during training should be gentle and followed up with affectionate warmth and praise. Positive reinforcement and consistent training methods will foster a strong bond and promote desirable behaviors in these wonderful companions.

Nutrition

	For optimal health, the Boston Terrier should be fed a high-quality dog food, whether it's a commercially manufactured brand or a home-prepared diet with guidance and approval from your veterinarian. It's important to choose a diet that corresponds to the dog's specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult or senior. Some Boston Terriers may be prone to weight gain, so it's crucial to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight. While treats are useful for training, overindulgence can lead to obesity, so portion control is essential. Familiarize yourself with human foods that are safe for dogs and those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, consulting your vet is recommended. Lastly, ensure that clean and fresh water is always accessible to your Boston Terrier to support their overall well-being.

Historiography

The Boston Terrier breed has an intriguing and storied history that traces back to the 19th century. It arose from the crossing of terriers and bull-type breeds during a time when blood sports like pit fighting and ratting contests were popular in England. Judge a strong and muscular dog resulting from a Bulldog and a white English Terrier cross, played a pivotal role in the breed's development.

Judge was sold to an American named William O'Brien, who brought him to Boston in the 1870s. O'Brien then sold Judge to Robert C. Hooper, a fellow Boston resident. Judge, also known as 'Hooper's Judge,' became the foundation of the Boston Terrier breed and the ancestor of nearly all true Bostons. Judge was described as a sturdy square-headed, and dark brindle dog with a white stripe on his face. Hooper bred Judge to a small white female named Burnett's Gyp, owned by Edward Burnett. The offspring of this breeding, particularly Wells' Eph, Tobin's Kate, and successive generations, played crucial roles in shaping the Boston Terrier as we know it today.

Selective breeding during the breed's early years aimed to transform the initially stocky fighting dog into a smaller, more charming, and companionable breed. Initially referred to as the Round Head, the breed was eventually renamed the Boston Terrier, honoring its city of origin. The Boston Terrier Club of America was established in 1891, and shortly after, in 1893, the breed received its first registration with the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Boston Terriers have retained a special place in the hearts of Bostonians. For almost a century, they have served as the official mascot of Boston University. Moreover, in 1979, the Massachusetts state legislature officially designated the Boston Terrier as the official dog of the state, cementing its status as an enduring symbol of Massachusetts and its proud heritage.