The Boston Terrier is an elegant, cheerful and sociable dog. It can be the ideal pet for both dog experts and novice owners. We are talking about a small dog, easy to care for and extremely affectionate. It is perfect for all types of families and due to its character, it does not need excessive time in its education. The main quality of this dog is its high sociability, its good behavior and the attachment it has with its family.

In this breed tab we will detail everything about the Boston terrier, including its physical characteristics, its character and the specific care that owners must take into account. Read on and find out if this breed is right for you.

History of the Boston terrier

Unlike other dog breeds, the Boston Terrier has a well-documented history. The breed was developed by a coachman who worked for wealthy people in Boston in 1865. This coachman used to crossbreed the dog breeds of his employers and began to cross an English terrier with a bulldog. It is from this cross that this breed bears the word “terrier” in its name, but currently there is nothing left of those tough hunting dogs in the Boston Terrier.

The offspring of this cross bred only with small dogs and, mainly, with French bulldogs. That explains the great resemblance between the Boston terrier and the French bulldog. As time went by, the Boston Terrier became more and more popular and today it is one of the most valued dogs in almost the entire globe.

Boston terrier traits

The body of the Boston Terrier is short, compact and square in structure, that is, its length is equal to the height at the withers. The legs of this dog are strong for their size. The head of the Boston Terrier is short and square. It is well proportioned to the rest of the body and its expression denotes a high degree of intelligence. The nose, black and broad, has a well-defined furrow between the nostrils.

These dogs have a prognathism (lower jaw longer than the upper one) that gives their muzzle a square shape. His eyes are large, round, and dark. Their ears are small and erect.

The coat of this breed is usually short, smooth, shiny and of fine texture. It can be brindle, black with a reddish hue, or black with white markings.

Boston Terrier temperament

These dogs are friendly, sociable, and gentle. Also, they are very loyal and smart. Their good character has made them the favorite pets of many families around the world.

They are usually very friendly dogs when it comes to people, although somewhat reserved with strangers. In addition, they have a reputation of being great friends to children, but you have to make sure that the little ones do not hurt them by playing. They also tend to get along with other dogs and can learn to hang out with other pets. Either way, it is important to socialize these dogs when they are still puppies.

Boston Terriers have a high degree of intelligence. They learn very easily when trained with positive methods, and can learn a variety of commands when the trainer understands and applies the fundamental principles of dog training.

Although they do not present particular problems when it comes to canine behavior, these dogs demand a lot of attention and company, which can be difficult for those who do not have enough time for a pet. Left alone for long periods of time, they can be destructive or even develop separation anxiety.

In short, these dogs make excellent pets for families with and without children, as long as the owners have enough time to spend with their dogs. Although Boston terriers are not aggressive, adopting such a breed is not recommended if you have very young children, as they are fragile dogs that can be easily abused and injured.

Specific Boston Terrier care

Boston terrier hair is easy to care for and it is usually sufficient to brush and bathe it occasionally, only when the dog is dirty. These dogs shed hair regularly, but not a lot.

When it comes to exercise, the Boston Terrier doesn’t need much. Their daily walks are usually enough to keep your pet in good shape, but also to enjoy some ball games and catch it. Many owners practice canine agility and freestyle training with their dogs, sports that can be enjoyed with this breed. However, we must take seriously the risks the Boston terrier faces when exercising vigorously in hot weather. These dogs should never be forced to exercise in high temperatures because they can suffer fatal heat stroke.

Boston Terrier Health

Unfortunately, due to its particular morphology, this breed is predisposed to various canine diseases. Boston Terriers are prone to cataracts, patellar dislocation, epilepsy, heart problems, allergies, and sensitivity to anesthesia and other chemicals. In addition, they are very susceptible to heat stroke and that is why you have to take good care of them in hot environments. Avoid extreme exercise in high temperatures.

These dogs are also known to be poor swimmers, so they can easily drown if they fall into the water and don’t know how to swim too much. Prevention is better than cure, so avoid risks if you have a pool at home.

Bring your Boston Terrier to our Hospital Veterinario  Glòries in Barcelona and we will be happy to take care of his health. Request your appointment now by calling 932 460 805.