Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a distinctly American breed developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s through crosses between English Bulldogs and the now-extinct White English Terrier.
Formally recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1893, it earned the nickname "American Gentleman" for its striking tuxedo-like black and white markings and consistently well-mannered nature.
7-11kg
Weight
Small
Size
13-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Boston Terrier
This compact, square-proportioned dog stands 38–43 centimetres at the shoulder and weighs 7–11 kilograms, featuring a characteristically short, broad muzzle, large expressive dark eyes, and neat upright ears. The short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, though the breed does shed moderately. Temperamentally, Boston Terriers are lively, affectionate and deeply devoted companions with an amusing sense of fun. Intelligent and eager to please, they respond well to positive training and adapt wonderfully to family life with children and other pets. Their warm, sociable nature and gentle playfulness make them excellent companions for people of all ages. With exercise needs of up to one hour daily, Boston Terriers thrive in various living environments, including apartments, and make ideal urban pets. Prospective owners should note that as a brachycephalic breed, they may be prone to breathing difficulties and heat sensitivity, requiring careful management.
Boston Terrier at a Glance
- Group
- Utility
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 7–11 kg
- Height
- 38–43 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £1000–£1900
Boston Terrier Temperament
The Boston Terrier is a lively, intelligent and deeply affectionate breed with a charming personality that endears it to everyone it meets. Devoted to its family, including children and other pets, it is gentle, playful and keen to be involved in all household activities. Boston Terriers carry themselves with a certain dignity and self-assurance, and their large, expressive dark eyes give them a captivating, soulful appearance. They are clean, quiet and undemanding house dogs that adapt well to apartment living. Intelligent and eager to please, they respond well to positive training. Their warm, sociable nature makes them wonderful companions for people of all ages.
Boston Terrier Lifestyle
The Boston Terrier adapts well to flat living and doesn't need a large home and is happy with a small or medium-sized outdoor space. They are equally happy in town or country.
Dog Food for Boston Terrier
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Boston Terrier weighing around 9 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£2.14 - £2.29
Per month
£64 - £69
Per year
£783 - £834
Boston Terrier Characteristics
The Boston Terrier needs daily exercise but is quite adaptable about how they get it and is eager to please and takes to training naturally. They are brilliant with children, but cope with some alone time if properly settled. The coat requires moderate upkeep and produces a reasonable amount of loose hair. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Boston Terrier Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly adaptable to urban flats and country homes alike, with moderate exercise needs
- Intelligent and trainable, making them a solid choice for first-time owners
- Minimal grooming needed thanks to the short, smooth, low-shedding coat
- Friendly and sociable with children over five, forming strong family bonds
Cons
- Prone to separation anxiety and needs regular companionship
- Can be boisterous, which may not suit homes with very young children
- Sensitive to heat and can have breathing difficulties due to their flat face
- An occasional stubborn streak means patience is needed during training
