Boston Terriers

Photo source: Bonnie's Page

The dog, that went down in history as the forefather of all modern Boston Terriers, weighed about 32 pounds and was of dark brindle with some white markings. The dog had a square head and almost flat mouth. A crossbreeding with a smaller Bull-type female resulted in a litter that later became the foundation stock of many breeding lines. The Boston Terrier of that time was often referred to as "stableman's dog" or "barber's dog".

Needless to say, subsequent generations were all of different appearance and did not always display similar temperament characteristics. Many of them were still used in pit fighting. Bit by bit, the Boston Terrier acquired a function as a family pet. Despite their strength, they were very affectionate toward their owners.

Photo source: Boston Terrier Princess

By the late 1890s, the Boston Terrier type had been formed. The dogs were mostly similar in appearance and personality traits, which called for an official standard and breed recognition.

Breed fanciers united their efforts to promote the breed. For that they had to form a breed club. The club was established amid arguing about the name of the breed. It was agreed that the new breed was not to be called the Bullterrier for it had different characteristics. The breed started to be called the Boston Terrier as the reminder of the place where Boston Terriers were bred in abundance. The club was renamed to the Boston Terrier Club of America. In 1893, the AKC accepted the club as a member and recognized Boston Terriers as a separate breed.