If you are looking for a cute affectionate companion, the Boston Terrier could be just the dog for you. Their distinctive black and white markings, resembling a tuxedo, means they are always ready for an outing formal or informal.
They are often chosen as a therapy dog.
Origins Of The Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are one of the few dog breeds actually developed in the United States. They were developed in the Boston area around the end of the nineteenth century. They were accepted into the American kennel club as a breed in 1893. They are classified in the non-sporting category. They were originally bred as fighting dogs from a cross between an English bulldog and a white Terrier. French bulldogs were later introduced into the mix giving us the breed we see today.
In their early days, they were often used to hunt rats in garment factories.
Character Of The Boston Terrier.
Boston Terriers have a beautiful personality. They are gentle, eager to please and generally very easy to train. They are smaller dog but because they are quite sturdy, they are able to cope with children much better than some other small breeds. They usually get on well with cats and other pets especially when they were raised together.
They don't have a barking habit but do benefit from barking training when they are young. This makes them a very good choice for apartments.
Appearance
The most common colouring of a Boston Terrier is black and white. Other colors are brindle and seal (which is described as the color of a wet seal). Any other colors are not accepted for registration by the American kennel club.
Pet dogs have often been cross-bred with other breeds and they lose their characteristic tuxedo appearance.
Their tails are rarely more than 2 inches long. The tail can be straight, curled or shaped like a corkscrew.
Health
Boston Terriers are long-lived dogs often reaching from 13 to 15 years. Because of their flat face, Boston Terriers are not tolerant of hot or cold weather and care should be exercised if exercising them in these conditions.
Many Boston Terriers need a caesarean section to give birth. According to a survey, conducted by the UK Kennel Club, over 90% of litters delivered this way.
One of the most endearing features of the Boston Terrier are their large bulging eyes. However, this feature does make them susceptible to corneal ulcers.
They can have delicate digestive systems which make them prone to gas.
They require moderate exercise which is best given in sessions of short duration rather than in one long walk.
Grooming The Boston Terrier
The grooming needs of the Boston Terrier are minimal - they have a short shiny coat and a weekly brushing is normally all they need. This is another factor which makes them ideal for apartment living.
Their nails need to be trimmed regularly. Long nails can cause them pain and lead to difficulty walking.
