Boston Terrier

Updated November 30, 2025

Boston Terrier sitting on an isolated background

The Boston Terrier is a non-sporting breed that originated in the United States. They are known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and charming personality, making them excellent companions for a variety of households.

Temperament

Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Affectionate, Amusing

Weight

10-25 pounds

Height

16-17 inches

Life Expectancy

11-13 years

Coat Color

Black & White, Brindle & White, Seal & White

At a Glance

Good with Kids

4/5

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Characteristics Appearance Temperament Care Health History FAQs

About Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a non-sporting breed that originated in the United States. They are known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and charming personality, making them excellent companions for a variety of households.

11-13 years
Lifespan
10-25 pounds
Weight
16-17 inches
Height
N/A
Energy Level

What Makes Boston Terriers Special

The Boston Terrier, with its classic 'tuxedo' coat, is a charming and intelligent companion. They are known for their friendly disposition and amusing antics, making them a beloved breed.

Despite their small size, they are sturdy and always ready for a walk or a game of fetch. Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful family pets.

Boston Terrier History & Origin

The Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds to have originated in the United States. They were first bred in Boston, Massachusetts, in the late 19th century.

The breed was developed by crossing an English Bulldog with a white English Terrier.

Originally bred for pit fighting, their friendly nature quickly made them popular as companion animals.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Boston Terrier in 1893.

The breed's distinctive markings earned them the nickname 'The American Gentleman'.

Boston Terrier Characteristics

Individual Variation

Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Couch Potato Star Athlete

Grooming Needs

Minimal Grooming Extensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal Training Requires a Lot of Training

Health Issues

Few Known Health Issues Many Known Health Issues

Shedding Level

Sheds a Little Sheds a Lot

Boston Terrier Appearance

The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-proportioned dog with a distinctive short, square-muzzled face. Their smart 'tuxedo' coat gives them a dapper and gentlemanly appearance.

They have a lively and graceful gait, and their expressive, round eyes are a window to their intelligent and friendly personality.

Physical Features

Ears

The Boston Terrier's ears are carried erect and are large in proportion to their head. They can be left natural or cropped.

Eyes

Their large, round, dark eyes are set wide apart and have a characteristically alert and kind expression.

Nose

The nose is black and broad, with a distinct line between the nostrils. The short muzzle can lead to snorting and snoring.

Coat & Build

Coat Length

The coat is short, smooth, and has a fine texture, requiring minimal grooming.

Coat Color

The recognized colors are black, brindle, or seal with white markings. The 'seal' color appears black but has a reddish cast when viewed in the sun.

Tail

The tail is set low, short, and fine, and may be straight or screwed. It is never docked.

Boston Terrier Temperament

Known as the 'American Gentleman,' the Boston Terrier is a friendly and amusing companion. Their expressive eyes and charming demeanor win over hearts wherever they go.

Boston Terriers are known for their lively and playful nature. They enjoy being the center of attention and will often entertain their families with their comical antics.

This breed is intelligent and can be easily trained, although they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement and gentle training methods work best.

They are affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children and other pets, especially when socialized from a young age.

While they are not excessive barkers, they will alert their owners to strangers or unusual noises, making them good watchdogs.

Temperament Traits

FriendlyIntelligentLivelyAffectionateAmusing

Good With

Health

Boston Terriers are generally healthy with a lifespan of 11-13 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions, many of which are related to their short-faced structure.

Common Health Issues

Brachycephalic Syndrome - This refers to a combination of upper airway abnormalities that can cause breathing difficulties. Symptoms include noisy breathing, snoring, and tiring easily during exercise.
Patellar Luxation - This is a common orthopedic condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location. It can cause lameness and may require surgery in severe cases.
Cataracts - Boston Terriers can be prone to juvenile and adult cataracts, which cause cloudiness in the lens of the eye and can lead to vision loss.
Allergies - They can suffer from skin allergies (atopy) to environmental allergens like pollen and mold, as well as food allergies.
Heart Murmurs - These can be a sign of underlying heart disease and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Preventive Care

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, controlled exercise, and dental care are essential for maintaining their health. Eye and breathing issues should be monitored closely.

How to Care for a Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are relatively low-maintenance dogs, but their brachycephalic (short-faced) nature requires some special attention to their breathing and eye health. They are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations.

Living Conditions

Space Requirements

Well-suited for apartments and smaller homes.

Climate Adaptability

Prefers moderate climates; sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Apartment Living

Excellent apartment dwellers.

Best Suited For

Adaptable to various lifestyles, from active singles to families with children.

Training Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialized Care Guides

Puppy Care

Early socialization and consistent, gentle training are key for a well-behaved adult.

Senior Care

Monitor for signs of arthritis and adjust exercise accordingly. Regular vet check-ups are important to manage age-related health issues.

First-Time Owner Tips

An excellent choice for first-time dog owners due to their manageable size and affectionate nature.