With large, rolling brown eyes and a pink, flapping tongue, the Boston Terrier greets you with the air of a bubbly and slightly clumsy gentleman. They’re charmers who were bred to be your best friend and are particularly good with children. They don’t require much exercise but also like to play around, which makes them energetic enough for young families but chill enough to live in a small urban dwelling.
One of the older modern breeds, the Boston Terrier has been around since before the AKC was founded and has been a part of the national club almost from its very beginning. Let’s investigate their interesting past and see why the Boston Terrier is still one of America’s most endearingly popular breeds today.
Top 7 Boston Terrier Facts:
1. The Boston Terrier Breed originated in (you guessed it) Boston, Massachusetts.
In the late 1860s in Liverpool, England, a cross between a Bulldog and a white English Terrier resulted in a muscular dog named Judge. This dog became the foundation dog of the Boston Terrier breed. He ended up being owned by Robert C. Hooper of Boston. The Boston Terrier is one of the oldest modern dog breeds. For historical context, the American Kennel Club wouldn’t even be formed for another 20 years.
2. Delivering a litter of Boston Terrier puppies is a laborious task.
Unfortunately, natural births aren’t very common for Boston Terriers, which is one reason why puppies can be so expensive. A cesarean section is required in over 80% of cases, and usually only three to four puppies are born at a time.
3. In 1979, the Boston Terrier was dubbed the state dog of Massachusetts.
Only 13 states have official state canines, so this was quite an accomplishment.
4. Boston Terriers have a couple of nicknames.
Their elegant black and white pattern gives them their nickname, the American Gentleman. The Boston Terrier has also been called the Tuxedo Dog.
5. The AKC officially recognized the breed in 1893.
The Boston Terrier joined their ranks 9 years after the breeding group formed.
6. They’re categorized in the AKC non-sporting group.
It simply wouldn’t do for a gentleman to work a hard labor job, such as pulling sleds. Even so, the Tuxedo Dog takes advantage of its recreational status by diligently fulfilling their roles as a companion dogs.
7. The AKC has consistently rated the Boston Terrier between #21 and #23 as the most popular dog in America since 2013.
Even though they already have a highly popular status, you might believe they should have an even higher ranking since you see them all the time. You might be mistaking a Boston Terrier for a French Bulldog. At a glance, the trendy Frenchie looks very similar to a Boston Terrier. However, the French Bulldog stands a little shorter with a more compact body shape. They’re currently ranked as the most popular dog in the United States.
Boston Terrier Characteristics
| Height: | 10–12 inches |
| Weight: | 12–25 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11–13 years |
The Boston Terrier is notoriously charming, handsome, and easy to live with. They require regular exercise to stay physically fit in order to avoid health and behavioral issues. Lively and spunky, the American Gentleman is the life of the party but rarely part of the unruly crowd. After a quick frolic in the park, they’ll likely curl up by your side for a nap.
Important Things to Know About Boston Terriers
Exercise
Boston Terriers are a brachycephalic breed, which means that they have a flat face and a shortened muzzle. While this feature looks cute, it can also affect how efficiently they breathe, especially during exercise or in extreme weather conditions.
Because brachycephalic dogs are less effective at cooling themselves through panting, they are more prone to overheating and can experience breathing difficulties if overexerted. It’s best to avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day in summer and to keep activity moderate. In colder climates, provide appropriate protection if needed and monitor them closely, as extreme temperatures of any kind can be challenging. Always ensure access to fresh water and allow plenty of rest breaks to help keep your Boston Terrier safe and comfortable.
Health
Boston Terriers have a life expectancy of 11–13 years on average. Being a brachycephalic (or flat-faced breed) makes them prone to suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Allergic skin disease, in particular atopic dermatitis, is common. Other conditions include patella luxation, problems at birth (dystocia), and certain tumors such as mammary neoplasia, mast cell tumours, brain tumors, and pituitary tumors resulting in Cushing’s disease.
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Eye problems are relatively common, some causing serious vision troubles. They are at increased risk for corneal ulcers, cataracts, glaucoma, lens luxation, traumatic proptosis, and uveal cysts.
You should keep your Boston Terrier at an ideal weight and take them to the vet at least annually to make sure they stay in optimal shape.
Summing Up
Since their early days during the Industrial Revolution, the Tuxedo Dog has kept us in awe of their dapper coat and charming ways. With their easy-going personality, they generally tolerate most living conditions, whether you have a suburban house with a spacious yard or a small townhouse in the city with a community dog park. They usually love children, but also would make a good companion for a single person or couple. It’s no wonder that the Boston Terrier is consistently ranked as one of the most popular dogs in America. Few dog breeds are so flexible, and none can boast its established native past that’s rooted in one of the country’s most patriotic cities.
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Featured Image Credit: bubutu, Shutterstock
Top 7 Boston Terrier Facts:
