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Boston Terrier

Size:
Lifespan:
Over 10 years
Coath length:
Short
Sheds:
Yes
Grooming:
Once a week
Size of home:
Size of garden:
Small/medium
Town or country:
Either
Energy levels:
Medium
Characteristics:
Playful, intelligent and affectionate
Gets along with other pets:
Yes
Family dog:
Yes
Suitable for:
All owners
Breed standard colours:
Below
Average dimension(s):
Height: 38-43 cm (15-17 in)Weight: 5.5-11 kg (12-25 lb)
Requires training:
Basic training required

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The Boston Terrier is a cheerful, good-natured dog with a sturdy, compact frame and distinctive ‘tuxedo jacket’ markings.

Always bright and full of fun, these dogs are perfect for people looking for a cheerful companion. They also adapt well to other pets, even cats, and do well with slightly older children with whom they will relish playtime. This breed is fastidiously clean and requires little grooming. Although requiring regular exercise, the Boston does well with shorter sessions as opposed to long vigorous walks, and it will relish games of fetch. They are intelligent dogs which can be trained, although they are also stubborn and may well choose to ignore you!

History

Boston Terriers were developed in Boston, USA in the late 19th century by crossing bulldogs with the White English Terrier. By the 1950s they were hugely popular in the USA and are often referred to as the national dog of the United States. Their good nature has led them to be considered as the ‘American gentleman’ of dogs.

Health and common issues

As with all flat-faced breeds, Bostons can experience difficulty breathing when conditions are especially hot. Its prominent eyes should also be checked daily for redness and irritation and may need to be flushed out. Responsible breeders screen their stock for eye problems such as cataracts, corneal ulcers, and glaucoma, as well as deafness and patellar luxation. (Breed watch – category 2 on Kennel Club)