This dapper little dog makes a good natured lively companion. He is a sensitive dog, easily adapting to his owner’s moods, always ready for a fun game of ball, to play rough and tumble or to snuggle up on the couch and watch some TV.

The Boston Terrier is a fine choice for the novice dog owner, he is very intelligent and though he can be a bit stubborn at time, he is usually fairly easy to train and not one to cause any serious problems.

To his family he is devoted, loving and affectionate but to strangers he can be reserved, even suspicious, he is alert and protective and makes an excellent barking watch dog, though he can get carried away with the barking if allowed, so owners wanting a quiet dog should enforce strict barking rules from day one.

Many Boston Terriers seem to have a special affinity to the Elderly so make a fantastic companion for those in their later years but he also does fit wonderfully into almost any home which offers lots of hugs, cuddling and games. He does wheeze and drool.

CHILDREN: The Boston Terrier is a fine choice for households with children.

OTHER ANIMALS: He is usually fine with other household pets but some can be scrappy with strange dogs, especially males with other males. Proper socialization and training from an early age can help curb this behaviour.

EXERCISE: This little dog takes about an hour of exercise daily to keep him fit and trim. Boston Terrier owners might enjoy taking their dog to conformation shows, obedience and agility trials, flyball or therapy work.

HEALTH: The Boston Terrier is susceptible to infections and lacerations on his eyes, eyelid/eyelash abnormalities, tumours and heart stroke. He is sensitive to extremes in temperatures and due to his pushed in face may suffer respiratory difficulties and heatstroke in the summer.

Sadly many female Boston Terrier have difficulties giving birth. Due to the large heads of the pups a caesarean section is often needed. This is one of the major reasons that Boston Terrier tend to be a bit more expensive than many other breeds.

He is a long lived breed, most making 15 years or more. He can be quite gassy, a high quality food is recommended.

APPEARANCE/COAT CARE: The Boston Terrier comes in three different weight classes. The lightweight weighs under 15 pounds, the middleweight 15-20 pounds and the uncommon heavyweight 20-25 pounds. All stand between 12-14 inches.

His short coat which comes in brindle or black with white markings needs only a quick brushing once a week to keep him neat and tidy.

Photo kindly donated by Gus Croteau. Babette, 4 month old Boston Terrier.