Boston Terrier

What is a Boston Terrier?

The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog originating in the United States of America. This breed is also elsewhere known as the 'American Gentleman', and is celebrated for its friendly, mild temperament and tuxedo-like coat.

The History of the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier breed emerged in the late 19th century in Boston, Massachusetts. It is the result of cross-breeding between an English Bulldog and a white English Terrier. Accepted into the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1893, this charming breed rose to become the first Non-Sporting dog breed established in the United States.

Characteristics of the Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are compact, sturdy dogs known for their expressive, round eyes and flat faces. Typically, they weigh between 12 and 25 pounds and stand 15 to 17 inches at the shoulder. Additionally, they have a short, smooth coat, which is usually black, brindle, or seal with white markings. Their friendly and outgoing personality combined with a high level of intelligence makes them fantastic companions. Note that they are highly adaptable and can live comfortably in both apartments and larger homes, provided they get enough exercise.

Boston Terrier in Canine Science

Canine Science has studied the Boston Terrier extensively. These studies have detailed this breed's potential health issues such as eye problems, brachycephalic syndrome and deafness. This breed is known for its high levels of intelligence and it has been widely studied in fields such as dog cognition and behavior. In terms of behavior, Boston Terriers have been found to be sociable, energetic, and very affectionate, making them great companion dogs. Their adaptability and ability to learn new commands quickly make them prevalent in obedience competitions. Additionally, they are seen as excellent therapy dogs aiding in various forms of animal-assisted therapy.