Many families wonder if Boston Terriers as family dogs would be a good choice.  When choosing a family dog, parents need to consider how much dog raising experience they have already and the ages of any children in the home.  Boston Terriers do make good first dogs for families. Discover how Boston Terriers are as family dogs. 

Boston Terrier Stats!

Breed Group: Non-Sporting
Height: Height: 9–15 in (23–38 cm)
Weight: 6–25 lb (3–11 kg)
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years

Boston Terriers are a very popular breed. They are gentle and friendly with adults, children and other animals when socialized well from a young age. Many families generally recommend the Boston Terrier even with young children in the house. However, the dog and child should never be left together unattented.

This breed is suitable for apartment living because of the dog’s compact size and the minimal barking. Boston Terriers are often too friendly to alert their owners when they meet a stranger.

These dogs love to play indoor and outdoors. Really long walks are usually not necessary. Just playtime with the children and other families members can be enough on a daily basis. The Boston Terrier is intelligent and also does well in more competitive, structures activities such as agility trials.

The dog requires minimal grooming, usually just an occasional brushing.

These dogs are eager to please their owners. Boston Terriers have an allure of determination, strength and energy, they appear very distinguished and are very poised. Their personality and coloring of their coats (like a tuxedo) earned them the name, the “American Gentleman”.

Boston Terrier Breed History

The Boston Terrier originated in 1870 when Robert C. Hooper of Boston bought a dog, he named Hooper’s Judge.

The dog’s exact linage is unknown but Hooper’s Judge may have been a combination of the Bulldog and Terrier type breeds used for fighting.  Hooper weighted almost 30lbs (13.5kg).  Hooper was bred with French Bulldogs which created the Boston Terrier, a smaller dog that weights about 20lbs which we commonly see today.

The breed was first shown in Boston in the late 19th century and became part of the American Kennel Club in 1893.  The Boston Terrier was the first non-sporting dog bred in the United States of America. 

Originally bred to fight, Boston Terriers have calmed their aggressive ways over the years of being bred for the human company instead.  They are not meant to be outdoor dogs  as they rely too much on human companionship. 

Boston Terrier Health

Most Boston Terriers will be healthy. Make sure to discuss any health concerns with a certified breeder or shelter staff when selecting your puppy or adult Boston Terrier. However, there are some common health issues amoung the breed.

• Respiratory issues – Snorting, snoring or reverse sneezing are common because of the dogs’ short snout. Usually not treatment necessary.
• Eye issues – Cataracts, Cherry Eye (a prolapse eye gland), or eye injury due to the big, bulgy eyes characteristic of the breed. Treatment may require surgery for cataracts and cherry eye. Antibiotics may be prescribed in the case the eye receives any blunt or sharp trauma.
• Allergies – Skin, contact or environmental allergies can occur. Treatment involves removing the allergen from the environment and dog if possible and may include treatment with medication for symptomatic relief.
• Heart murmurs- Irregularity in the way the heart pumps the blood effectively. Treatable with medication and possible surgery depending in the dog’s age, health and size (or grade) of the murmur at diagnosis. Your veterinarian can advise the best treatment for your individual situation.
• Curved back – “Roaching”, a curvature of the spine. Can affect any dog in varying degrees. Consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options. Mid causes may not require any special care – Just unconditional love!
• Heat and cold intolerance – Because these dogs have a short snout they are less effective at regulating their body temperature through panting, for example. The short snout can make them more susceptible to extreme weather changes.
• Flatulence – All dogs pass gas. This breed has a reputation for flatulence. Controlled diet and small, frequent feedings may help. Consult your veterinarian for advice on your dogs diet and digestive system if you are concerned.

Boston Terrier Grooming Needs

Boston Terriers don’t need much grooming. The occasional bath, nail clipping and ear cleaning is all the maintenance they require.

Boston Terrier Exercise Needs

These dogs require low to moderate exercise daily, 2 short walks minimum. They prefer to live indoors, they make great apartment dogs, they enjoy laying close to you while you read or sip tea. They are not suited for super sportive, active lifestyles, as their bradychephalic nose (short nose) makes these dogs very sensitive to too much fitness or hot temperatures.

Everyone Wants to Know How Boston Terriers Are With Children

This breed loves children of all ages and enjoys being playful with them. As a low-maintenance pet, they are generally great for families with busy schedules and young children. For families with older children they provide a dog with enough responsibility for teenagers to have accountability, while still having plenty of time to enjoy the thrills of dog companionship. A great introduction for adulthood.

Boston Terriers are a small dog that makes one of the best family dogs. Their unique coloring gives them a noble appearance. Their gentle and fun-loving character makes them suitable for children and teenagers of all ages.

Do You Own a Boston Terrier? Tell Us Why They Make The Best Family Dogs?