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Boston Terrier History

The Boston Terrier breed originated, in the United States, around 1870, when Robert C. Hooper of Boston purchased a dog known as Hooper's Judge, who was of a Bull and Terrier type lineage. Judge's specific lineage is unknown, however, Hooper's Judge is either directly related to the original Bull and Terrier breeds of the 1700s and early 1800s.He was interbred with one or more French Bulldogs, providing the foundation for the Boston Terrier. By 1889 the breed had become sufficiently popular in Boston that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, but this proposed name for the breed was not well received by Bull Terrier Fanciers. Shortly after that, the club changed its name to the Boston Terrier Club and in 1893 the Boston Terrier was admitted to membership in the AKC, making it the first US breed to be officially recognized. In 1979, the Boston Terrier was recognized at the official state dog of Massachusetts.

Boston Terrier Temperament

Having bred as a companion dog, Bostons enjoy the company of humans and generally make good family pets. They are spirited and lively and enjoy to be involved in the goings on of the household. They usually get along well with strangers, but will bark when someone comes to the door. They are generally sociable with other dogs and housepets. Having the word "terrier" in their name is a bit of a misnomer, since they are considered companion dogs and have a very laid back, unterrier-like manner. They require a moderate amount of exercise and are fairly easy to train, but can be hard to housetrain. Bostons are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States and make an excellent pet for the first time dog owner.

Boston Terrier Appearance

Bostons are small, strudy dogs that usually weigh between 15 to 25 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches at the withers. They have a short muzzle, prick ears and a short, cropped tail. Their coat is very short & sleek and come in colours that vary from brindle, black, or seal, with a white chest and blaze between the eyes.

Boston Terrier Grooming

Boston Terriers need very little grooming. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and an occasional brushing will keep this dog looking at it's best.

Boston Terrier Life Expectancy and Health Problems

Common Boston health problems are Cataracts ,Cherry Eye, Patellar Luxation, deafness, heart murmur, and allergies. Since these dogs have very short muzzles, they do not cope well in very cold or warm weather and caution must be taken when exercising these dogs outdoors in those conditions. The average lifespan of a Boston Terrier is 12 to 15 years.

Famous Boston Terriers

Famous Bostons include Rhett, the mascot of Boston University, and Buster Brown's dog Tige.

Boston Terrier Pro's and Con's

This simplified list may help you decide if a Boston Terrier might be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Do You Want

• a small dog that is easy to pick up?
• a dog that makes a good family pet?
• a dog that is easy to care for?
• a dog that gets along well with other dogs and housepets?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog that doesn't cope well in extreme heat or cold?
• a dog that can be difficult to housebreak?
• a dog that snorts and snores because of it's short muzzle?

Useful Boston Terrier Links

The Boston Terrier Club of America

The Boston Terrier Club of Canada