What does the Boston Terrier look like?
Originally bred in the United States as a ratting dog and then adopted as a companion dog because of its small size and cute looks. It stands at around 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43cm’s) and weighs about 10 to 25lbs (4.5 to 11 kgs.)
Inquisitive and Playful
It has a short smooth coat of fur, usually in Brindle, Seal (blackish brown), or Black with white markings on the muzzle, between the eyes neck and chest and occasionally the front feet.
Origin: ~ United States of America
Bred for: ~ Ratting, Guard dog, Companion dog.
Coat: ~ Smooth, short.
Colours: ~ Brindle, Seal, Black and White.
Height: ~ 15 to 17 inches or 38 to 43cm’s.
Weight ~ 10 to 25lbs or 4.5 to 11 kgs.
AKC Group – Non-Sporting Group
The History of the Boston Terrier
Coachmen employed by wealthy people in Boston, Massachusetts were interbreeding some of their employers dogs during the late 1860’s. This practice led to a cross between an English Terrier and a Bulldog resulting in a breed known as Hoopers Judge. The progeny of this breed were consistently breed to decrease in size until by 1889 the breed had become very popularthat fanciers of this breed formed the American Bull Terrier Club.
With some disagreement over the various nicknames that ensued from different fanciers of this breed it was eventually named the Boston Terrier, so named after its birthplace and thus followed the recognition by AKC in 1893, sealing its name and breed type.
Once recognised as a breed by the AKC this dog gained much favour throughout the United States becoming one of the most popular breeds during the mid 1900’s.
Temperament of the Boston Terrier
One of the likely reasons this dog has remain popular is because of its playful and devoted nature. Inquisitive and often sensitive to the way there owners are feeling they can be very attentive to an owners needs.
They are keen and quick learners for commands by their owners, although occasionally will be stubborn to move.
They can have a tendency to bark, can be wary of strangers and for those out walking can be nervously aggressive toward strange dogs.
Because of their high intelligence their boredom threshold can be low so you will need to keep this breed entertained with affection and games, puzzles and chews.
Health of a Boston Terrier
The biggest health concern with these dogs is Brachycephalic syndrome – See our post here.
In general these dogs are fairly fit and healthy provided exercise is regular. Very occasionally you may a knee problem with Patellar Luxation.
