Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier dog

Lively, affectionate American companion with a distinctive tuxedo coat.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Small 12 - 25 lbs 10 - 12 inches 11 - 13 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United States



Own a Boston Terrier? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Boston Terrier? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Want a dog that generally gets along well with other dogs.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.

The Boston Terrier is one of the relatively few dog breeds developed in the United States, with its story beginning in Boston during the late 19th century. An important early ancestor was a dog named Judge, later known as Hooper's Judge, who was owned by Boston resident Robert C. Hooper. Judge was a muscular dog of Bulldog and white English Terrier type, quite different in size and build from the modern Boston Terrier. He was bred to a smaller white female named Gyp, and their descendants became the foundation for a new local breed. Early breeders selectively reduced the dogs in size and emphasized a compact body, short muzzle, and distinctive markings. The dogs were initially known by names such as Round Heads and Boston Bulldogs. In 1891, enthusiasts formed the Boston Terrier Club of America, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1893. Over time, breeders moved away from the fighting-dog ancestry behind some of the foundation stock and concentrated on companionship and appearance. The polished little "American Gentleman" of today is therefore a distinctly American creation with roots in working-class Boston.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The Boston Terrier tends to have a moderate level of shedding.

The Boston Terrier generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The Boston Terrier is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The Boston Terrier generally benefits from a moderate amount of daily exercise.

The Boston Terrier has moderate trainability and generally benefits from patient, consistent training.

The Boston Terrier generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Boston Terrier generally tends to get along well with other dogs when properly socialized.

The Boston Terrier is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Boston Terrier generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.