Boston Terrier

Country of origin: USA
Registries: AKC, UKC, CKC
Occupation: Companion
Size: 15 to 17 in tall; 15 to
25 lbs
Longevity: 11 to 15 years
Exercise: Moderate
Training: Moderate
Grooming: Easy

One of the few breeds developed in the United States, the Boston Terrier is the state dog of Massachusetts. It originated in Boston, of course, in the mid-1800s as a fighting pit dog. By the early 1900s breeders were paying attention to reduced size, and by the 1950s small dogs under 7kg (15lb) were the norm, although larger dogs were and still are both bred and shown. Bostons are easy-tocare- for couch potatoes if given the chance, but can also make lively family playmates. Their tails are naturally short, never cut. In the US, some individuals still have their dog’s ears amputated or “cropped” – for the owner’s or breeder’s vanity, not for the well-being of the dog. This practice is illegal in most European countries and Australia. As with Pugs, Caesarian births are common because of the relatively large size of pups’ heads, although breeders have been successful at producing a more natural head size in recent times. Like other brachycephalic breeds (those with short, flattened heads), problems with this terrier’s snoring and breathing can require veterinary intervention.

History

The Boston Terrier is a beloved family pet created by Americans. They were created by mixing White English Terriers and English Bulldogs. They date back to the 1800s when a man named Robert C. Hooper bought the predecessor of Boston terriers. It is believed that this dog he purchased in 1870 became the main ancestor of the modern breed of today. This was the year they were first shown as well.

Originally the dogs were bred larger to fight and hunt but eventually, they became smaller breeds. In 1889, clubs based on the breed emerged and they began gaining popularity. It only took a few years for them to gain AKC recognition as well in 1893. They were bred to be simply man’s best friend from that point forward.

Personality

The Boston Terrier has the nickname “American gentleman” for a reason. They are gentle and very happy canines. Their friendliness and love for people make them great housepets. They get along with children and other animals just fine. Although at times they can be a bit hesitant of strangers since they are quite protective of their humans.

Otherwise, they are also stubborn but intelligent as well. They also have a lively nature to go with their medium energy levels.

Traits

Boston Terriers are a small breed of dogs standing at 15 to 17 inches tall. They are anywhere from 15 lbs to 25 lbs. They have a short but square head, muzzle, body, and tail. They are considered proportional despite the shortness of their physical attributes. Their chest is strong and broad.

Their coat is smooth and short. They come in only a handful of color combinations. Seal, black, and brindle colors can be seen with white patches all over. They have the appearance that they are wearing tuxedos, hence their nickname.

Handling

The coat of a Boston Terrier is short so grooming is minimal. Their eyes are prominent and slightly protrude, so carry around some eyedrops. Also ensure no debris is collected in their eyes.

Training of the Boston Terrier is important to level out unwanted behaviors. When you start them young, they grow up to be well-rounded dogs. Although they aren’t typically barkers, a calm dog is an adequate indication of sufficient training. They will need a lot of exercise and playtime to stimulate their mind. Classes can even be taken to keep their minds stimulated. Just be mindful that their flattened muzzle causes them to be vulnerable to temperatures. You should take precautions to avoid overheating during strenuous play.

Health

The Boston Terrier breed is brachycephalic which is basically the shortening of their head and muzzle. They appear to have a flattened face which can cause them to snort and snore at times. As mentioned above, temperature sensitivity will occur with heat or cold. Their short faces may also cause them to have issues with anesthesia.
Their eyes need special care since they protrude from their short faces. They can acquire corneal ulcers so be sure to check for debris often and use eyedrops when necessary.
Despite being susceptible to some of these health issues due to their size and structure, they have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years.

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