Boston Terriers make adorable companion dogs. They are a playful, yet gentle, breed making them ideal dogs for novice dog parents or families with children.
Size:
10-25 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
Boston Terriers are bundles of energy, so they need exercise every day. However, you can accomplish this with short walks or indoor games. They are especially playful and love to chase balls.
Mess Factor:
Boston Terriers do shed, but this breed doesn’t have an undercoat, so you won’t find your house carpeted in hair. Regularly brushing loose hair will help with the mess.
Barking and Volume:
Not all dogs are alike, but some Boston Terriers have been known to “talk” …a lot.
Training Requirements:
Take your Boston to a basic obedience class to prevent their tendency to nip and jump up on people. Although they can be stubborn, these smart dogs pick up obedience skills quickly, so a basic training should be sufficient.
Factoid:Bostons excel at agility training and even weight pulling.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: Some Boston Terriers may develop cataracts, PDA, patellar luxation, stenotic nares or lose their hearing. Overall though, the breed is generally healthy and isn’t prone to many serious health conditions. *A responsible breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is sufficient.
Training: A basic training class should suffice.
Grooming Requirements:
To combat the minor shedding you’ll find with Bostons, brush your Terrier weekly. Keep his nails trimmed and teeth clean and you’ll have a happy dog. Occasional baths are sufficient.
Kid Compatibility:
Your children are just more people for your Boston to play with. They’re ideal family dogs.
Longevity:
10-14 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
Bostons are social creatures. They love company and other animals are seen as playmates.
Friendliness: Towards People
Boston Terriers are the ultimate companion dog and they love to be with their families — all the time. If they don’t get enough companionship (which some time-strapped families may not be able to provide) they may become listless and temperamental. They may be slightly standoffish with strangers, but overall are very genial pets. Some are even trained to become therapy dogs.
BE PREPARED FOR: A dog that may need a lot of “you” time, but will be an extremely fun and loving member of your family.
