Boston Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Boston Terrier is nicknamed the American Gentleman for its tuxedo-like coat and friendly manner. It was born in Boston in the nineteenth century and is one of the few breeds that truly originated in the United States.

Origins and appearance

The breed descends from crosses between English Bulldogs and White English Terriers, and was originally used in pit fighting before becoming a gentle family dog. Bostons are compact and square, with a short, flat face, large round eyes, erect ears and a short tail. The coat is smooth and short, in black, brindle or seal with white markings on the chest, face and legs.

Temperament

Bostons are lively, affectionate and sociable. They enjoy people, are generally good with children and are happy to join in family activities. They can be clownish and stubborn, and some are sensitive to scolding. Most do not bark excessively, though they snort, snore and make a variety of funny noises. They usually get along with other pets.

Exercise

Bostons need moderate activity: a couple of walks and play sessions each day. Avoid exercise in hot or humid weather, because their short muzzle makes cooling difficult. See dog heatstroke. Use a harness instead of a collar, and watch for labored breathing.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please, and respond well to rewards. Keep sessions short and fun. House training is usually manageable with a routine. Early socialization prevents shyness or reactivity. Some are food-driven, so use small treats and measure daily calories.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs a weekly brush and occasional baths. See short coat dog grooming guide. Clean the facial folds if present, wipe the eyes, trim nails and brush teeth. Bostons feel the cold, so provide a sweater in winter.

Health considerations

Topics worth discussing include:

• Brachycephalic airway syndrome. See health issues in flat-faced breeds
• Eye problems, such as cherry eye and corneal ulcers. See cherry eye in dogs
• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Deafness, particularly in dogs with extensive white
• Allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Heart murmurs and tumors, including mast cell tumors
• Difficult births, often needing cesarean section

Living with a Boston Terrier

They adapt to apartments and houses and travel well. Keep them cool, protect their eyes from scratches and manage their weight. Many enjoy cuddling on the sofa.

Puppies and the first year

Boston puppies are bouncy, chewy and eager to play. Socialize them early, practice handling the face and ears and begin training right away. Feed measured meals, because flat-faced breeds are sensitive to extra weight. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for eye care, dental cleaning, possible airway evaluation and routine vet visits. Some owners choose pet insurance because of breed-related risks. See dog pet insurance guide.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include exercising in heat, using a collar on a short-necked dog, overfeeding and ignoring eye irritation. Do not assume noisy breathing is normal.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about airway health, eye and patella screening, hearing tests and the parents' temperament. Ask how puppies are born and what health guarantees are offered.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Boston Terrier suits people who want a friendly, low-grooming companion and can manage heat and health care. It may not suit those wanting a rugged hiking partner. For a similar breed with bat ears, see the French Bulldog.

The takeaway

Bostons are cheerful, compact and affectionate, and they need cool exercise, eye care and attentive health management.