Boston Terrier Breed Profile

21. Mar, 2010 2 Comments

Quick Stats for the Boston Terrier Breed

Height (at the shoulders): 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm)
Weight: 10 – 25 pounds (5 – 11 kg)
Life Expectancy: up to 15 years
AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1893
Shedding: average shedder
Living Conditions: good for apartment; relatively inactive indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Boston Terrier Breed

Boston Terriers are loyal companions who are very in tune with how their owners are feeling. They are playful and affectionate which makes them great family pets. They are also good with children and seniors alike, and very friendly towards strangers.

These dogs are gentle, alert, and quite intelligent. They generally get along well with other household pets, but may become dominant and aggressive with other dogs. Boston Terriers can be difficult to housebreak.

History of the Boston Terrier Breed

The history of the Boston Terrier is well documented. It is one of the few dog breeds that was actually bred in the United States of America.

During the late 1800s, wealthy Boston families employed coachmen to breed some of their finest dogs. One of these crosses, between an English White Terrier and an English Bulldog, resulted in a fine specimen weighing over thirty pounds. This dog was then bred to a smaller female. One of their male offspring was then bred to an even smaller female. Finally, one of the resulting offspring was bred with French Bulldogs to create the foundation stock for today’s Boston Terrier.

By 1890, the breed became so popular in Boston, that lovers of the breed created an organization called the American Bull Terrier Club. However, shortly after the dog’s name was officially changed to the Boston Terrier.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1893.

The Boston Terrier Breed Care and Grooming

The Boston Terrier requires daily exercise. A long walk around the neighborhood or some playtime in a safely enclosed area is sufficient. They love to play games involving chasing something, and they enjoy retrieving a ball. Without proper exercise they can be a bit high strung and get themselves into trouble.

They have a smooth, short-haired coat that is pretty easy to groom. Just comb and brush them with a firm bristle brush, and give them a bath only when necessary. They do not have the typical strong dog odor. You should wipe their faces daily, paying special attention to their eyes. Check the ears regularly for fleas and ticks. Clip the nails now and again.

This dog breed is an average shedder.