With its square face, lively personality and big round eyes, the Boston Terrier has a distinctive look that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers. This breed is the 17th most popular dog registered with the AKC in the United States.

History and Origin

The all-American Boston Terrier was born and bred in Boston, Massachusettsin the late-19th century. The original larger and heftier Boston Terriers were developed from the English Bulldogand the now extinct English White Terrier. The offspring were interbred over a period of time with French Bulldogs, gradually resulting in the small and distinctly non-warrior-minded pup we know today as the Boston Terrier. By the early 1900s, this charming and sometimes clownish little dog was a popular icon on everything from ads and playing cards to tobacco tins.

General Information

The Boston Terrier is a lively dog who enjoys nothing better than showing a toy who’s boss, or playing catch with a ball. It’s well-suited to city living, and should not be kept outdoors as it can’t handle excessively cold or hot weather. Highly intelligent and expressive, this pet seems humanlike in its ability to understand its human companion’s moods. This terrier’s friendly and adaptable attitude makes it a good companion dog for the entire family, but it’s especially suited to older adults and apartment living. The Boston Terrier is good with kids, however, particularly when raised with them from puppyhood.

Health Ailments

This compact and strong dog can live to a ripe old age, but it’s susceptible to a number of health problems, including respiratory and intestinal ailments, as well as eye infections and cancer. It’s shortened facial structure makes breathing difficult, especially in hot weather.

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