Boston Terrier

Non-Sporting Group

Also known as: Round Head

Size Category:Small
Height:10-12 inches
Weight:12-25 pounds
Life Span:11-13 years
Compare Boston Terrier

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●Boston Terrier grooming requires minimal effort but keeps their coat and health in check
  • ●Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush, rubber mitt, or hound glove removes loose hair and maintains coat health
  • ●Bathing should be occasional unless the dog gets messy
  • ●Regular nail trimming prevents pain and mobility issues
  • ●Brushing also stimulates new hair growth and distributes skin oils
  • ●Overly long nails can cause discomfort and affect walking or running.

Colors & Markings

Colors

Black & WhiteBlack Brindle & WhiteBrindle & WhiteSeal & WhiteSeal Brindle & White

Health Information

Boston Terriers require careful eye care due to their prominent, sensitive eyes, which are prone to irritation, redness, or debris buildup. Owners often use saline drops to cleanse the eyes daily. Reputable breeders prioritize genetic screening for common health issues, including cataracts, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, deafness, and patellar luxation—a knee condition akin to a human ‘trick knee.’ As a brachycephalic breed, Bostons are also susceptible to breathing difficulties in extreme heat or humidity, necessitating proper environmental precautions.

Recommended Health Tests

Patella EvaluationOphthalmologist EvaluationBAER Testing

📜 History

The Boston Terrier originated in 19th-century England, where breeders crossed terriers and bull-type dogs for blood sports like pit fighting and ratting. In the late 1860s, a brindle Bulldog-English Terrier mix named Judge was born in Liverpool and later sold to American William O'Brien, who brought him to Boston. Judge, later known as 'Hooper’s Judge,' became the founding ancestor of the breed after being purchased by Robert C. Hooper. His descendants—including Well’s Eph and Tobin’s Kate—shaped the Boston Terrier’s early lineage. Originally bred as a compact, muscular fighter, selective breeding refined the breed into a smaller, affectionate companion, initially called the Round Head. Renamed in honor of Boston, the breed gained official recognition when the Boston Terrier Club of America formed in 1891 and the AKC registered its first Boston in 1893. Today, the breed remains a beloved symbol of Boston, serving as Boston University’s mascot since the early 20th century and Massachusetts’ official state dog since 1979.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Boston Terrier is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
No, the Boston Terrier is considered a low-shedding breed. While all dogs shed slightly, this breed is much easier on your furniture and clothes tailored for those who dislike cleanup.
Yes, the Boston Terrier is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The Boston Terrier is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The Boston Terrier can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Boston Terrier

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise

8/10
80% Compatibility
American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dog

6/10
60% Compatibility
Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher

2/10
20% Compatibility
Compare Boston Terrier with Bichon Frise

Overview

About This Breed

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, and amusing breed known for its affectionate and playful nature. They are sociable with both family and strangers, making them excellent companions, though they can be somewhat stubborn during training. Their happy-go-lucky attitude and moderate energy levels make them well-suited for interactive environments where they can engage with their owners.

🎭Temperament

FriendlyLivelyIntelligent

Purpose

Originally bred for pit fighting and ratting contests, later refined as a companion dog

Breed for

Ratting, Companionship

Best Suited For

Apartment living, active families, and individuals seeking a friendly and adaptable companion

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is ideal for families or individuals who enjoy an active yet adaptable companion, appreciate a dog with a lively personality, and can provide gentle but consistent training.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Low

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with moderate training stubbornness and the need for regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors; additionally, their prominent eyes require daily care to avoid irritation or injury.

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About Our Data

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