Boston Bull Terrier

The Olde Boston Bulldogge was the Boston Bull Terrier type fighter dog, which gave the modern Boston Terrier a start in life. Those early dogs were much larger in size and much more assertive in temperament. They weighed over 40 lbs and were designated for dog fighting contests. Needless to say, they were valuable for their ferocity and ability to withstand severe physical and mental rigors.

Compared to the old Boston Bull Terrier type dog, the Boston Terrier of today is quite compact in size, standing 15-17 high at the withers and weighing 10-25 lbs. Despite their diminutive size in relation to their fathers, Boston Terriers have retained their prominent muscle and sturdy body built. They still look a little intimidating, and are physically strong. They have large and broad heads, and there are no wrinkles on the muzzle. The muzzle is short and square, the chest is broad and deep, and the limbs are strong and straight. The coat is short and shiny, and it comes in brindle and white, black and white and brown and white. Boston Terriers bear a strong resemblance to French Bulldogs.

Unlike the old Boston Bull Terrier type dog, the modern Boston Terrier is docile, amicable and communicative. There does not seem to be the slightest vestige of his ancestor’s viciousness in his disposition. Boston Terriers are renowned for their conviviality, intelligence and eagerness to play with anyone they meet. They are not suspicious of strangers, and can get on well with other animals, including non-canine. Boston Terriers are excellent playmates for children. They thrive on interaction and hence they should not be left alone for a long time. Boston Terriers do not make good guard dogs.

Boston Terriers are ideal for apartment life, although they do appreciate daily walks and moderate activity. Because they are sensitive to cold and heat, they should not be exposed to weather extremes. Too much physical strain may lead to breathing difficulties. These dogs also drool and snore a lot. Birth is usually a headache for Boston terrier breeders, as in most cases Caesarian deliveries are required. Boston Terriers can be prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, tumors, and eye injuries. Dogs with serious genetic disorders or serious deviations from the standard, both in terms of physical and behavioral characteristics, should not be involved in breeding projects. The breed originated in the late 1800s, as old Boston Bull Terrier type specimens were bred to English Bulldogs (one of such interbreeding resulted in the appearance of a smaller dog named Hooper’s Judge), and the AKC recognized the breed in 1893.