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| Boston Terrier |
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An American Treasure, the Boston Terrier, one of the few breeds developed in the US has nonetheless emerged as a dog with a large and very protective following. Delightful and happy, this breed with a unique history and ancestry offers an alert, active but not hyper personality with confidence and intelligence and an extraordinary sense of humor. His unique tuxedo coat and jaunty attitude only enhance the overall demeanor. Well suited for a variety of homes due to its size, easy nature and coat, the Boston Terrier has unfortunately become the darling of the puppy mill and irresponsible breeding world... special care MUST be taken to verify that your source of a puppy is a responsible one and that you are indeed a suitable home for one. The information and links on this profile will help in that research. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Non-Sporting |
Height: usually around 13-17 at the shoulder |
| Weight: 15-25 pounds |
Longevity: teens |
| Colors: black and white, brindle and white or seal and white |
Coat type: short and smooth |
| Recognized Registries: AKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Compact brachiocephalic breed of type unique unto itself. Ears may be natural (still carried upright) and the unique "tuxedo" coat pattern of dark and light give the Boston Terrier a definite claim on the title of Gentleman Among Dogs. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate |
| General Nature: |
exceptional with proper handling |
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with Children: very good if socialized and with well behaved children |
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with other pets: very good if socialized |
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with dogs: very good but can be intimidated by larger, rougher dogs |
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| Socialization requirements: moderate, be sure to give this dog a chance to stand on its own feet, a program of constantly being carried can leave the dog anxious when put down on the floor |
| Ideal home characteristics: flexibility and commitment would be the hallmark of an exceptional Boston Terrier home as these dogs can be happily kept in apartments or estates, even so, commitment to socializing, exercise, play time and interactin with family are critical |
| Temperament Notes: Susceptible to the same temperement issues of many of the smaller charming breeds, being overindulged can lead to small tyrants. This breed is gentle but not overly soft, intelligent but not overly confident. |
| Training requirement: Moderate to minimal; once the dog is socialized, housetrained and with basic manners, a family can happily enjoy their companion in virtually any venue |
| Trainer notes: Often overlooked as great training partners, the Boston Terrier, bred to be the companion of devoted family members makes a great and entertaining partner in agility or obedience (or other disciplines as the trainer may be inclined). Like many, the Boston is so inclined and driven to be successful and please its trainer that harsh methods and anger will take the heart out of the little dog. A light hearted, innovative, consistent and playful approach will offer success of a variety as unique as the Boston Terrier him/herself! |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 1800s but accepted to AKC in 1893 |
| Country of Origin: United States |
| Original Function: companion |
| History: Developed in the early 1800s from a English Bulldog x White Terrier male, the breed was originally developed for its qualities as a companion and jaunty presence. Over time, the Terrier |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: oversized, bad dentition, incorrect head |
| Health Notes: hypothyroidism, eye problems, bracheocephalic syndrome, luxating patellas, deafness, cleft palate, skin allergies |
| Health Testing: CERF, Thyroid panel, BAER test, OFA, vet exam (for cleft palate), |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had Boston Terriers?
- How long have you been breeding Boston Terriers?
- What health issues have you observed in the breed?
- What health concerns do you screen your breeding stock for?
- What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
- Will you be keeping a puppy from this litter?
- What is your breeding priorities?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- Do you microchip your puppies?
- At what age will you send your puppies to their new homes?
- Do you have any suggestions for training and socializing the puppy?
- What did you particularly like about this breeding pair?
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| Web Sites: http://bostonterrierclubofamerica.org/Rescue.html - Boston Terrier Club of America Rescue |
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| Other Resources |
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