Boston Terrier

Despite its name, the Boston Terrier has never been used to follow vermin to earth, but excels as a companion and house dog.

Origin: This American breed was developed during the latter part of the last century, with various strains of Bulldog, Bull Terrier and Boxer all contributing to its ancestry. The first Boston Terriers were products of a Bulldog and a White English Terrier, crossed in Massachusetts in the mid 19th century. Subsequently refinement, using French Bulldog blood, resulted in a compact, well muscled breed with distinctive, neat markings.

Indeed, these dogs were originally called American Bull Terrier for a period, until objection from Bull Terrier owners forced a change of name. And since it was finally recognized in 1890 by the American Kennel Club as the Boston Terrier.

The affectionate nature and modest requirements of the breed combined with its attractive appearance, quickly established it as a favorite pet in America. Its popularity has endured in spite of the fact that a Caesarian section is required for many births, making breeding expensive.

After a rather slow start, the Boston Terrier is now well established in Britain.

Temperament: Very affectionate, lively and intelligent. An ideal pet that also makes an outstanding show dog.

Grooming: Very little attention is required because of its short, smooth coat.

Exercise: Although Boston Terrier does not have a working past, but regular exercise is desirable. It doesn’t require long and strenuous walks.

Training: They have been proven to be easy to train because of its lively and intellectual nature.

Breeding: It is by far not an easy breed to breed, especially show quality is concerned. The most significant problem associated with these Boston Terriers is only apparent during the whelping period. The relatively large head, coupled with a narrow pelvis, often causes problems when a bitch is giving birth. A Caesarean section may be required if a puppy’s head becomes stuck in the birth canal. Particular care is therefore necessary when breeding Boston Terriers.

Physical Appearance of Boston Terrier

Head: A square skull, jaw and muzzle. The muzzle is deep and short with a black nose.

Eyes: Large, round and set wide apart. Dark brown in color.

Ears: Thin, erect and set at the corners of the skull.

Body: Compact and quite muscular with a short back and loins. Chest is deep and wide.

Coat: Short and smooth. Color preferably brindle with white markings, although back and white is permissible.

Tail: Set and carried low. Short, and either straight or twisted.

Size of a Miniature Boston Terrier

Height: 38 cm / 15 in

Weight: 4.5kg / 10 lbs