Boston Terrier
🧠 Temperament & character
The Boston Terrier is a bright, friendly dog with plenty of humour and a pronounced bond with his people. He is playful and attentive, yet noticeably calmer and more easy-going than many true terriers. With children, strangers and fellow dogs he usually gets along well, and he announces visitors without becoming a constant barker. His intelligence and his will to please make him a pleasant, easily trained companion.
📜 Origin & history
The Boston Terrier arose at the end of the 19th century in the city of Boston from crosses of Bulldogs and the now-extinct white English Terrier. Originally the dogs were considerably heavier and were also bred for dog fighting, but they were soon transformed into an elegant, smaller companion dog. In 1893 the Boston Terrier was recognised as one of the first breeds to originate in the USA. To this day he is regarded as a typically American city dog and was for a long time one of the country's most popular dogs.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Boston Terrier's short, glossy coat is extremely easy to care for and needs only occasional brushing. As a short-headed breed he tolerates heat and exertion poorly, which is why walks and play should be kept short in high temperatures. He is intelligent and willing to learn, so basic training and little thinking games come easily to him. His exercise needs are moderate - daily walks and play are usually enough for him.
🩺 Health
As a short-headed (brachycephalic) breed, the Boston Terrier can suffer from breathing problems, heat sensitivity and eye conditions - the protruding eyes are prone to injuries and corneal ulcers. Patellar luxation and birthing difficulties also occur, which is why puppies are often born by caesarean section. Life expectancy is about 11 to 14 years. Reputable breeders pay attention to nostrils that are as open as possible, free breathing and examined eyes and kneecaps.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Boston Terrier is a versatile companion and family dog that feels just as comfortable in a city apartment as in a house with a garden. Thanks to his friendly, easily trained nature he is also suitable for first-time owners and families with children. His moderate exercise needs suit an active but not extremely sporty everyday life. In Switzerland, when buying, one should pay particular attention to health-oriented breeders with free breathing and avoid the heat in summer.