Boston Terrier and Children

Boston Terriers are a very popular breed. They are gentle and friendly with adults, children and other animals when socialised well from a young age. Many families generally recommend the Boston Terrier even with young children in the house. However, the dog and child should never be left together unattended.

This breed is suitable for apartment living because of the dog's compact size and the minimal barking. Boston Terriers are often too friendly to alert their owners when they meet a stranger.

These dogs love to play indoor and outdoors. Really long walks are usually not necessary. Just playtime with the children and other families members can be enough on a daily basis. The Boston Terrier is intelligent and also does well in more competitive, structures activities such as agility trials.

The dog requires minimal grooming, usually just an occasional brushing.

These dogs are eager to please their owners. Boston Terriers have an allure of determination, strength and energy, they appear very distinguished and are very poised. Their personality and colouring of their coats (like a tuxedo) earned them the name, the "American Gentleman".

Boston Terrier Breed History

The Boston Terrier originated in 1870 when Robert C. Hooper of Boston bought a dog, he named Hooper's Judge.

The dog's exact linage is unknown but Hooper's Judge may have been a combination of the Bulldog and Terrier type breeds used for fighting. Hooper weighted almost 30lbs (13.5kg). Hooper was bred with French Bulldogs which created the Boston Terrier, a smaller dog that weights about 20lbs which we commonly see today.

The breed was first shown in Boston in the late 19th century and became part of the American Kennel Club in 1893. The Boston Terrier was the first non-sporting dog bred in the United States of America.

Originally bred to fight, Boston Terriers have calmed their aggressive ways over the years of being bred for the human company instead. They are not meant to be outdoor dogs as they rely too much on human companionship.

Boston Terrier Health

Most Boston Terriers will be healthy. Make sure to discuss any health concerns with the certified breeder or shelter staff when selecting your puppy or adult Boston Terrier. However, there are some common health issues among the breed.

Respiratory issues - Snorting, snoring or reverse sneezing are common because of the dogs' short snout. Usually not treatment necessary.

Eye issues- Cataracts, Cherry Eye (a prolapse eye gland), or eye injury due to the big, bulgy eyes characteristic of the breed. Treatment may require surgery for cataracts and cherry eye. Antibiotics may be prescribed in the case the eye receives any blunt or Sharpe trauma.

Allergies -Skin, contact or environmental allergies can occur. Treatment involves removing the allergen from the environment and dog if possible and may include treatment with medication for symptomatic relief.

Heart murmurs-Irregularity in the way the heart pumps the blood effectively. Treatable with medication and possible surgery depending in the dog's age, health and size (or grade) of the murmur at diagnosis. Your veterinarian can advise the best treatment for your individual situation.

Curved back -"Roaching", a curvature of the spine. Can affect any dog in varying degrees. Consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options. Mid causes may not require any special care - Just unconditional love!

Heat and cold intolerance -Because these dogs have a short snout they are less effective at regulating their body temperature through panting, for example. The short snout can make them more susceptible to extreme weather changes.

Flatulence -All dogs pass gas. This breed has a reputation for flatulence. Controlled diet and small, frequent feedings may help. Consult your veterinarian for advice on your dogs diet and digestive system if you are concerned.

All breeds are susceptible to specific disorders. Each breed can be affected to varying degrees. The idea of listing the common illnesses for each breed is not to discourage you from wanting a specific breed if you find it a perfect fit for your family; but to help you better prepare for the future health of your dog. As well as provide you with the knowledge necessary to get a dog in the best optimum health.

I encourage owners to develop a strong relationship with a consistent veterinarian who the owner and dog both can bond with. Adequate medical care is a financial expense, but a necessity for being a responsible dog owner.