Last Updated on February 12, 2025 by Melanie Haynes
Boston is famous for so many things! Historically, there is the Boston Tea Party, the Boston Massacre, and the home of Paul Revere. Culturally, Boston is known for its baked beans, Fenway Park, the Boston Marathon, and let’s not forget about Cheers!
All these things are great; however, since most of us reading this are dog people, we know the best thing that comes from Boston is Boston Terriers!
Essential Characteristics of Boston Terriers
With their tuxedo-style coat and compact body, Boston Terriers make quite the family pooch! While this breed averages 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder, they can weigh anywhere from 10 to 25 pounds, and sometimes even more! Their sturdy size varies greatly, and some Bostons are much smaller than others, while some seem to tower over others.
A large head, short snout, erect ears, and broad chest accompany their solid, stocky build. At the opposite end of their head is a short tail, which should never be docked. Their fur is very short yet smooth. It is usually black and white, resembling a tuxedo; however, additional colors include seal and white or brindle and white.
Temperament
While it is thought that Bostons were bred to fight, this breed is a lover, not a fighter! Bostons are known for their friendly demeanor and never really meet a stranger. They immediately want to be friends with everyone they meet, which makes them great family dogs. They also get along excellent with kids and other animals. Although they are a friendly breed, exposing your Boston to early socialization experiences is always a good idea to get him comfortable with meeting new people or animals.
In addition to their excellent temperament, Bostons are very smart! This typically helps make house training and obedience smooth sailing; however, as bright as they are, remember that Boston Terriers can also be stubborn! Typically, this breed is food- or toy-motivated, so while training, ensure you have plenty of treats or toys for positive reinforcement.
If you are looking for an affectionate lap dog or snuggler, then you definitely hit the jackpot with Bostons. Pet parents of Boston Terriers can agree that this breed loves attention and affection and is willing to reciprocate to their owners. Additionally, Bostons also like to clown around! Expect these goofballs to want to play and act silly at any given moment.
Exercise
With their muscular build, Boston Terriers are ready to play regardless of the activity. They love to play indoors, making them great apartment dogs, and they also love playing outside. While each dog is unique, this breed typically requires at least one walk a day, which they will willingly love to take! Others may need more exercise, including playing chase in the backyard, running, going to a local dog park, playing with friends, or even swimming.
Remember, because of their short noses, this breed is susceptible to heat stress and should not be left outside in the heat for a long time.
These dogs love to play with their pet parents, kids, or other pets. While they can self-entertain with a toy briefly, you must participate in the exercise activity with your Boston. If left to their own devices, some Bostons may get bored and destructive, so engage in physical activity with your pup!
Bostons would benefit from agility, rally, or flyball courses to help them express their energy. Pet parents can easily find local classes where their Bostons can enroll. Joining a course like one of these helps with exercise and encourages good socialization skills—it’s a win-win!
Finding the time to give your dog adequate and necessary exercise every day can be difficult. If you work long hours during the day or don’t have time to dedicate daily for your Boston’s exercise, consider hiring a pet sitter to play with your pup when you are unavailable.
Grooming
It’s pretty evident that Boston Terriers are easygoing, and the same goes when it comes to their grooming. While they do shed, it is pretty minimal. However, this breed should be brushed weekly to help control the shedding.
Bathing is required only when the pet parents deem it necessary, typically once a month, or unless their Boston decides to play in a mud puddle or roll in something they probably shouldn’t have.
Pet parents need to be considerate of other grooming needs in addition to essential brushing and bathing. These could include trimming nails monthly, checking and cleaning ears weekly, and brushing the pearly whites weekly, if not daily.
Boston parents may also want to perform daily eye checks to ensure their pup’s eyes are free of redness or discharge. Routine grooming and hygiene care for your Boston Terrier will help keep him happy and healthy.
Vet and Medical Care for Bostons
The lifespan of a Boston Terrier is between 13 and 15 years. While typically a healthy breed, Bostons have some health-related conditions that pet parents should know.
- Cherry eye is a genetic issue caused by a prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. It typically occurs in dogs less than a year old. Veterinarians can treat this condition; if treated, dogs can live completely normal, everyday lives.
- Cataracts – Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to cataracts too! Cataracts occur when a clouded film covers the eye lens and are typically treatable. Bostons can have both juvenile cataracts, which develop between eight weeks of age and 12 months, as well as adult cataracts. This is another critical reason pet parents must check their dog’s eyes daily.
- Heart murmurs – Heart murmurs are a harsh, regurgitant sound in the heart, especially over the mitral valve area, where a defect causes blood to backflow into the left atrium. Due to heart murmurs, the heart cannot efficiently provide blood to the body. This condition requires the attention of a veterinarian, and treatment usually includes a low-sodium diet, exercise restriction, diuretics, and medications.
- Patellar Luxation – A common problem in Bostons occurs when the patella doesn’t line up, which can create an abnormal gait or cause lameness. This condition can lead to arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Depending on the degree of the luxation, veterinarians will typically suggest surgery to correct the problem.
- Deafness – Bostons can be born deaf and are typically BAER tested when puppies to determine if they have unilateral or bilateral hearing. If you decide to purchase a Boston Terrier from a breeder, inquire about the BAER testing.
- Allergies – Boston Terriers can suffer from allergies like many people and animals. From food to contact allergies, keep an eye on your pup to see if he is suffering from allergies, and contact your vet for advice.
It is always a good idea to discuss any health concerns you may have about your pet with your vet. Stay current with routine vet care and be aware of your pet’s behavior.
If something seems “off” with your pet, make sure you seek veterinary assistance to help treat conditions to prevent them from getting worse. It is no secret that vet bills can escalate quickly, especially regarding an emergency or surgery. It is never a bad idea to consider getting your fur baby a pet insurance policy to assist in paying those vet costs.
Bringing a Boston Terrier Home
Overall, Boston Terriers are great dogs! Before bringing one home, ensure you can keep up with their care and exercise. Remember, bringing home a new pet can be a 10-15-year commitment. Purchasing a Boston Terrier from a breeder can cost pet parents $600-$2,000. Remember that this does not include food, toys, or veterinary care.
As always, please remember the Adopt, Don’t Shop option! Many purebred animals end up in shelters every day for reasons that are usually out of their own control. Furthermore, Florida has a fantastic Boston Terrier rescue. Be sure to check out and contact the Boston Terrier Rescue of Florida for more information on volunteering, fostering, or adopting a Boston Terrier in need of a good home.
Space Coast Pet Services is always available for all your fur baby needs, including dog sitters, walkers, and even home visits. Contact us or explore our website today for a complete list of services.
What’s the BEST thing about your Boston? Tell us in the comments!
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