Boston Terrier

Alternative names: American Gentleman.

History of the breed

The Boston Terrier originated in the United States and is a cross between the English Bulldog and various terrier breeds. Developed in the late 19th century in Boston, Massachusetts, the breed quickly became popular for its charming appearance and friendly nature. The Boston Terrier earned its nickname "American Gentleman" from its elegant tuxedo-like coat pattern and polite demeanor.

Character and temperament

The Boston Terrier is an intelligent, friendly, and playful dog. It loves attention and is known for its cheerful and sometimes mischievous personality. This breed is sociable and thrives in a family setting. Despite its small size, it has a big personality and is always eager to interact and play.

Physical characteristics

Shoulder height : 38-43 cm.
Weight : 6-11 kg.
Coat : Short, smooth and shiny.
Colors : Black and white, seal and white, or brindle and white.
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 25-35 cm, chest circumference 40-50 cm.

Care

The Boston Terrier has a short coat that requires little maintenance. A weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush keeps it shiny and healthy. Check its ears regularly, keep its nails trimmed, and ensure good dental care. Due to its short muzzle, it is sensitive to heat, so avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.

Movement and activity

Although the Boston Terrier is an energetic dog, it doesn't require excessive exercise. Daily walks and playtime are enough to keep it happy and healthy. It loves to play with its owner and is well-suited for activities like obedience training and light dog sports.

Health

The Boston Terrier is generally a healthy breed, but may be prone to:

Breathing problems (due to its short snout)
Eye problems, such as cataracts or corneal ulcers
Patellar luxation (loose kneecaps)
Hearing problems

The average life expectancy is 11-13 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet with high-quality ingredients is essential. A Boston Terrier eats an average of 100-150 grams of food per day, depending on their weight, age, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as they can be prone to obesity.

Training and socialization

Boston Terriers are intelligent and learn quickly, but they can sometimes be stubborn. A consistent and positive training approach works best. They enjoy social interaction, so socialization at an early age is important to make them confident in various situations.

Suitability for owners

The Boston Terrier is perfect for families, singles, and seniors looking for a playful and affectionate dog. Small in size but big in personality, it's a good fit for apartments or homes with limited space. This breed is suitable for owners who enjoy interaction and companionship, as it loves to be close to its family. The Boston Terrier is particularly good with children and generally well-behaved in social situations. However, it needs an owner who understands its sensitivity to heat and breathing problems, especially in hot weather or during strenuous exercise.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Boston Terrier? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!