Dog Breed Guide

Boston terrier

Profile

Size

Small

Country of origin

United States

Origin

19th century

Bred for

Companion

Height

38 - 43cm (15 - 17in)

Weight

three classes: under 6.8kg (15lb), 6.8 - 9kg (15 - 20lb), 9 - 11.3kg (20 - 25lb)

Life span

11 - 13 years

With its black or brindle body and white markings on the face, chest and feet, it looks like a gentleman in a tuxedo, hence its nickname "the American Gentleman." A short nose, large round eyes, erect ears and a compact, square body are its hallmarks.

Bright and friendly, the Boston loves to play with its family. It is clever and learns quickly, though it can be a bit stubborn. It generally gets along well with other dogs and children and is considered an easy breed to keep, well suited to city life.

Its short nose makes breathing harder, and it is sensitive to heat. Many snore. Its large, prominent eyes are easily injured, so watch out for grass and twigs on walks.

Good to know

It is one of the first breeds developed in the United States. Around 1870, Robert C. Hooper of Boston acquired a dog named Judge, believed to be a cross between an English Bulldog and the now-extinct English White Terrier. Almost all Boston Terriers today are said to descend from Judge.

The early dogs were much larger than today's and were also used for fighting, but they were gradually bred smaller and turned into charming family dogs. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1893.

As its name suggests, it is the dog of Boston, and in 1979 it was named the state dog of Massachusetts. Boston University has had a Boston Terrier as its mascot since 1922. Despite the word "terrier" in its name, the American Kennel Club does not place it in the Terrier Group.