Boston Terriers are sometimes nicknamed ‘The American Gentleman’ and for good reason. Well-mannered, extremely easy to train and always dressed in a smart tuxedo coat, these little dogs make wonderful companions. With Bulldog blood in their lineage, the Boston Terrier has a similar square head but with a slimmer body and a face that’ll melt hearts. High bursts of energy will be followed by a Boston curling up for a nap – during which it’s likely they’ll snore quite loudly for their size.

History

Bostons take their name from the East Coast American town of Boston, Massachusetts. One of the few breeds to be ‘born in the USA’, the original Boston Terrier was a cross between the English Bulldog and the now extinct English White Terrier in the 1870’s. A little bit more cross breeding with French Bulldogs resulted in the modern Boston Terrier that still has the strong muscles of the Bulldog but is a true softy deep down.

Sometimes mistaken for French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers are cousins of Frenchies as they both have Bulldog in their ancestry. Need a helping paw telling these two dog breeds apart? Read our helpful guide Boston Terrier Vs French Bulldog to learn some helpful hints and become a dog breed expert!

Health

Boston Terriers live for around 12 -14 years. However, they can occasionally also suffer from problems like allergies, deafness, seizures, breathing difficulties and cataracts.

Characteristics

A tiny gentleman

These little dogs really do earn their ‘American Gentleman’ nickname. Loving, friendly and loyal, Boston terriers are excellent dogs to have around both children and the elderly. Affectionate and endlessly playful, they’re also intensely loyal and can be a little territorial, which means early socialisation is key.

Apartment ready

These small dogs aren’t overly or unnecessarily yappy, easy and quick to train. Sociable and friendly, they make the perfect dog for inner-city dwellers. They do like to run around though, so be sure you can take them to a nearby park to let them run off some steam.

Small Dog Syndrome

They may be loveable but don’t let your Boston rule the house. It might be tempting to let them off jumping up or not following instructions, but give them an inch and they’ll soon think they’re the boss.

Training

Boston Terriers love to make their owners happy and are very easy to train.

Housebreaking

Bostons are known to be relatively easy to housebreak.

Where to find Boston Terriers

Boston Terrier Groups

Keen to chat with other fans of this lovable little dog? Find a breed group below.
The Boston Terrier Club UK
The Northern Boston Terrier Club

Adopt a Boston Terrier

Would you love to provide a loving home to a Boston Terrier in need? Find a rescue Boston below.
UK Boston Terrier Rescue

Breeders

Sold on the Boston Terrier and want to take an American Gentleman home with you? Find an approved breeder below.
Kennel Club Assured Breeder

Do you own a Boston Terrier?

If you own a Boston let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.