Boston Terrier

Want a dog that’s unforgettable? The Boston terrier (also known as Boston Bull Terrier) originated solely in the United States, and is a cross between the now wiped out English White Terrier and the English Bulldog. The AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the terrier in 1893, and was first publicized in Boston in 1870 hence earning its name. It has a tough and congenial personality, ranging from being affable to being obstinate depending on the patience of its owner. Originally bred for fighting, they are now bred to act as a companion. Not long ago, they were pit fighters but have replaced their ruthless demeanor to be in the company of people. Terriers are widely known around the United States, earning them a title of “American gentleman of dogs.” They are also alert, expressive, mild mannered and well loved dogs. Some terriers prefer to be surrounded by people of any age, although some may pose problems by being stubborn.

Boston Terriers have a litter size of 3-4 puppies. They stand at about 12-16 inches while they weigh 10-25 pounds. They have a short muzzle, small, fine, upright ears and dark round eyes that are widely far apart. They have a broad chest and an arched neck. Their coat is sleek, and the textures are white and black, white and brindle and some are brown and white.

They don’t feel cautious or hesitant around strangers and would instantly hit it off because of their trusting nature. However, bear in mind that they would be eager to go with strangers. Without the proper amount of physical and mental exercise, they tend to be rambunctious. Terriers have a flair for knowledge, thus easier to train than most. They are also very sensitive to the tone of one’s voice. Owners have to give them leadership that they need, if without it, terriers may suffer from Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behavior wherein the dog may believe that he is the pack leader of humans. Similar to humans, this may cost them varying behavior issues. This is why they need an owner who has a competent sense of authority as the pack leader to guide their dog.

Terriers are also suitable for those who do not have experience in taking care of dogs, as long as they show leadership. Different Boston Terriers have diverse actions and habits depending on what they like. As such, some of them don’t bark on the door when necessary while some do. If placed in a room with a non-canine pet, it will not think of the latter as a prey or a threat. Terriers generally are affable even to those that are not part of their breed.

Good Grooming For Boston Terriers

For those who have no time or patience to bathe a dog, you are lucky. All you have to do is brush its sleek coat with a bristle comb to eliminate the lifeless hair strands. Bathe sporadically or when needed. Clean the ears from any ticks, wash the eyes warily, and wipe its face with a damp cloth cleaning everything. Clip the toe nails every now and then. Check for infection in the skin and around the eyes. The Terrier is an average shredder, so brushing is a necessity but an option.

Health And Lifespan

Even though it is small, it has a history of diseases it could obtain. These diseases are cataracts (both juvenile and adult type), cherry eye, luxating patellas, deafness, heart murmur, and allergies. If they stand in under the sun for too long, this short shaped dogs may suffer from breathing difficulties. They could also suffer the same difficulties in cold weather, in extreme cases of stress and when they over exert themselves. Large headed dogs of this breed are given birth through caesarean section since their pelvis is narrow. Tumors and heart diseases are common for this breed. Dogs may become retarded due to a bone defect in the skull of the Terrier that prevents growth. Their life expectancy is about 10-14 years.

Quick Facts

Alias:	NA	Size:	Small
Training:	Medium	Grooming:	Low
Shedding:	Low	Exercise:	Occasional walk and run
Energy:	Medium	Protection:	High, will bark to alert you of strangers