Breed Profile: Boston Terrier

The Boston terrier’s history begins in 1865, when Boston resident Robert C. Hooper purchased a dog imported from England who was a cross between an English bulldog and the now-extinct white English terrier. This dog, named Hooper’s Judge, was the ancestor of almost all modern Boston terriers. His offspring had sweet, gentle temperaments and were crossed with smaller French bulldogs as well as other small dogs imported from across the Atlantic. A distinct breed was established by about 1891 and was known as either the round-headed bull terrier or the American bull terrier, soon changed to the Boston terrier.

The breed was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1893. It remains a very popular breed in the United States to this day.

The following description is of an “ideal” Boston terrier. Not all Bostons fit the description exactly, but that’s not an issue unless you want one who can participate in dog shows.

The Boston is friendly, intelligent, and lively, having been bred for decades as a companion dog. A Boston tends to choose the company of his owners over other dogs or animals, which makes him ideal for single-pet homes.

Here are some traits to consider when determining how well a Boston is going to fit in with you and your family.

The Boston terrier makes for a loving and loyal companion. Fun-loving and active, he also seems to have the ability to mirror the mood of his owner: if you are happy, your Boston is happy. A Boston is content to do anything from lounging on the couch to playing a spirited game of tug-of-war, as long as he is doing something with his owner. These dogs don’t handle being apart from their owners well and aren’t happy when kenneled or confined for any long period of time. Most Bostons do well in a household with children as long as parents teach the children how to properly play with and care for the dog.

Boston terriers are not equipped to withstand extremes in temperature, so they must be supervised closely when playing outdoors. Their small size makes them well suited to a city apartment or urban setting, provided they receive adequate daily exercise.

The Boston terrier requires a fair amount of exercise to maintain good health. As with many dogs, Bostons benefit from a fenced yard, which helps them get outdoor exercise safely. However, given the Boston terrier’s poor ability to withstand extreme temperatures, indoor activities can be sufficient also.

Training a Boston terrier is not terribly difficult. Whereas a Boston has a willingness and desire to please, he also can have his own agenda when it comes to training, so an endless reserve of patience is important. Bostons are quick, bright, active, and always ready for a game, so imaginative and creative training techniques can keep them interested and entertained, and increase their desire to learn.