Is a Boston Terrier the perfect dog for you?
Not surprisingly, the Boston Terrier is the state dog of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. They are believed to have humble beginnings, raised solely as boxers in Boston stables. A cross between the English Bulldog and the now extinct English Terrier with some French Terrier, they were formidable as fierce fighting dogs.
It wasn’t long before they became popular with the wealthy Brahmins of Boston. Eventually fighting was removed from them, to become companion dogs and family pets. Getting their nickname as the American Gentlemen, because they appear to be dressed formally in a tuxedo, they were THE dog to be seen with during the Roaring Twenties. Extremely fashionable as family pets and companions until the 1960s, Bostons are rapidly regaining their popularity as the lovable little champions that they are.
The most common colors found among Bostons are seal, brindle, black and white, and any combination of all four colors. Most proudly sport a white chest, resembling a tuxedo shirt.
This small, stocky, muscular dog weighing between 10 and 25 pounds is in the Non-Sporting group. They belong to the Mastiff family. These mini mastiffs share many common personality and temperament traits of their gentle giant cousins.
In general, the Bostons are very intelligent and easy to train. Some can be stubborn, but their willingness to please their owners is usually so important to them that you can coax them to your way of thinking by using a calm tone of voice. To avoid Small Dog Syndrome, establish and maintain your leadership status.
Taking a Boston to positive reinforcement, no-punishment puppy kindergarten, and socialization classes at a young age is recommended. They will soak up obedience training and socialization like little sponges. This is especially important if you have children and other pets. For the most part, the Bostonians love everyone. They are a fantastic family pet. With proper training and socialization, they usually get along well with other dogs and small animals. However, some males can be territorial and protective. However, if you are properly trained, you should respond to corrections immediately.
Bostons are a favorite of older owners who appreciate their gentle yet slapstick antics and faithful company. Being a small dog that does not have a reputation for being a cheerful barker, they are very welcome and comfortable in an apartment or condo.
Typical of many small breeds, they can be a challenge to housebreak. Be patient, fair, firm and consistent. They will realize.
As they have short fur and are brachycephalic; Greek meaning “short head”, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Bostons are not a dog to throw alone in the backyard for hours. Although they greatly enjoy long, brisk walks and interactive playtime with you to burn off excess energy; like most Bostonians, they would rather be indoors than outdoors. This is not a breed that normally requires hours of daily exercise. They would rather spend that time learning something, like tricks. They often excel in agility rallies, flyball, and obedience competitions.
Most of the health problems Bostonians suffer from have to do with their beautiful, large, dark eyes. They include: juvenile and adult cataracts, cherry eyes, endope, dystrichiasis, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, and dry eyes. Other health problems may include: allergies, heart murmurs, seizures, patellar luxation, deafness, gastrointestinal problems, hypothyroidism, megaesophagus, tracheal collapse, tumors, and obesity.
Aside from sneezing backwards, the Bostons are known for doing three things like champions. They are snoring, snorting and farting! Watch their diet and don’t overfeed them! They have a reputation for being non-stop eating machines.
Ask Boston owners to describe their pets. As his eyes light up, you’ll hear: funny, silly, stubborn, friendly, loves everyone, great with other animals, loyal, alert, gentle, doesn’t bark much, cute, characterful, busy, happy, calm, intelligent, Clown, docile, affectionate, loves attention, devoted and diabolical. What they appreciate most is how active they are outdoors; indoors they are relatively inactive, unless they act for their amusement.
Being a short-haired breed that sheds minimally, they are easy to care for. A quick clean with a damp towel and brushing; Violet, you’re done! Check his ears and trim his nails regularly.
This is a long-lived breed. Boston Terriers have been known to live for over 15 years.
Bottom line: do your homework. Research the breed. Talk to Boston Terrier owners. This is a wonderful pet for the right person or family. Run; don’t walk away from puppies in pet stores, classifieds, and flea markets. They just perpetuate creepy puppy mills and careless and inexperienced backyard breeders. It may cost a bit more, but a reputable and responsible breeder is the best option for a happy and healthy dog. If you can’t afford a good breeder, check with shelters and rescues. Because Bostons are so popular with older owners, many give themselves up for nothing more than life’s circumstances. You may find your new best friend there, patiently waiting for you and in a forever home.