Boston Terrier, Breed of the Week
I love the Boston Terrier. Besides the Shih Tzu, the Boston Terrier is another smallish dog that I would own in a heart beat, for many of the same reasons. Every Boston I’ve known has been sweet, quiet and laid back, as well as sturdy and quick.
The AKC breed page has this to say about the Boston Terrier:
The Boston has been nicknamed “the American Gentleman” because of his dapper appearance, characteristically gentle disposition and suitability as companion and house pet. They require only a moderate amount of exercise and a minimum amount of grooming. The breed is easy to train and they are easy keepers, preferring to remain by their owner’s sides.
The Boston Terrier? It’s another perfect dog. Not too little, not too big, gentle and easy maintenance. And my friend Karen, the mama of Jack the French Bulldog, raised Bostons for awhile. Did you know that Boston Terriers are available in more than black and white?
Here’s a secret: When I was a kid, my grandmother had a Boston, Miz Beasley, and she ate Meow Mix. I loved that dog. I played with her as often as I could. And I wanted a Boston of my own, and when I got married and we went looking for a dog, my new husband insisted on a larger dog, a Lab or a Golden. We wound up being adopted by an Australian Shepherd (a breed wholly unknown to us at the time). But I love little Bostons.
Pros and Cons of Boston Terriers
Let’s look at the pros and cons of this stocky, sturdily built dog.
Pros:
- Great with kids and elderly people, as well as friendly with strangers – the Boston Terrier makes a great family pet
- Great apartment dogs – Bostons don’t need the same level of activity that other dogs might and will be happy in a smaller space – but they’ll still need a daily walk
- Life expectancy – this cute little thing will live about 15 years
- Easy to groom – the Boston has a short coat and sheds, but not prolifically – they do need a wet cloth to the face and eyes regularly
- Great watchdogs, but not really barkers
- Intelligent, easy going and easy to train
Cons:
- Health problems – most of the problems are with the Boston Terriers eyes, it seems, both with the eyes in general and a result of their protruding – but they’re prone to a host of other health issues
- Can develop Small Dog Syndrome, but that’s a result, most often, of owner issues – don’t let the dog rule the roost
Is It the Right Dog For You?
Okay. So. Health issues are the worst thing I can find to say about the Boston Terrier. The heck? If we weren’t already overrun with critters, I’d be popping here in a heartbeat to find the Boston of my dreams. Seriously. This is a gently recycled post. We wound up with, not one, but two lap dogs, bringing our family to four dogs. Neither are Boston Terriers, but shaggy little mutts.
I like to dream of treats our dogs of the week would love. I’m thinking the Boston Terrier would love the Jones Natural Chews Knee Cap or Braided Stix, as well as some yummy Taffy. AND I’d name my Boston Terrier Amanda or Frederick. No Hobbit names for my dog. Well. Maybe I’d name it Elrond. Yeah, I’d probably name it Elrond.
Spreading the good chews …
Flea