Boston Terrier
About the Boston Terrier
Temperament
Physical Characteristics
| Size Category | Small (10-25 lbs) |
|---|---|
| Height | 15-17" |
| Weight | 12-25 lbs |
| Coat Type | Smooth |
| Coat Length | Short |
| Colors | |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Moderate (30-60 min/day)
30 minutes per day recommended
Grooming
Moderate - Weekly
Mental Stimulation
★★★★★Moderate mental stimulation needed
Drooling
★★★★★Living Conditions
Cost of Ownership
| Purchase Price | $1,000-$2,500 |
|---|---|
| Annual Cost | $1,200/year |
Costs vary based on location, breeder, and individual needs. Annual costs include food, veterinary care, grooming, and supplies.
Health Considerations
Like all breeds, Boston Terriers may be prone to certain health conditions:
Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage many health issues.
Best For
- Families with Children
- Apartment Living
- First-Time Owners
May Not Be Ideal For
- Long Work Hours Away
Guides for your Boston Terrier
The story behind the Boston Terrier
Boston in the late 1800s produced this breed, which traces to a dog called Judge, an imported bulldog and terrier cross bought in the city around 1870. His descendants were bred down in size and refined by local fanciers, with French Bulldog influence often cited, and the early dogs were considerably heavier and used in pit contests before breeding shifted decisively toward companionship. The type was shown from the 1880s under names including Round Heads and American Bull Terriers before the Boston Terrier name settled, and AKC recognition came in the 1890s, making it among the first American breeds registered. Popularity peaked in the early twentieth century, and the Boston is now a common companion, entirely retired from any working purpose, and Massachusetts names it the official state dog.
Originally bred for: Companion, Fighting. You can trace how working roles shaped today’s breeds across our dog guides.
Feeding a Boston Terrier
Flat-faced breeds struggle to pick up and chew ordinary kibble, so shapes designed for brachycephalic jaws, or moistened food, make meals easier and reduce air swallowing. Portion discipline matters on a small compact frame, and slower eating helps a breed prone to gulping and flatulence.
Watch for: Flatulence and digestive sensitivity are so commonly reported that many owners cycle through several diets, and skin fold irritation plus itching also appear regularly. Air swallowing during fast eating contributes as much as ingredients do. Let a veterinarian steer any elimination trial.
Start with the Boston Terrier feeding guide, then compare our picks for the best dog food for small breeds.
Mealtime extras: training treats worth keeping in your pocket. Everything else lives in our dog nutrition and feeding hub.
Living with a Boston Terrier
Day to day, the basics matter most: how much exercise your dog needs, how often to get out for a walk, and how much sleep is normal.
For play and enrichment, browse our favorite dog toys and interactive toys for rainy days.
Gear that fits the breed makes life easier: a well-sized dog bed, a comfortable no-pull harness.
Raising a puppy? Work through crate training and the teething timeline — or see how old your dog is in human years with our dog age calculator.