Boston Terrier

Family: rerrier, companion, mastiff (bulldog)

Origin: United States

Date of Origin: 1800s

Breed For: ratting, companion

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: companion

Avg Size of Male: Height: 28-38cm (11in-15 in) Weight: 10-25 lbs(4.5-11.3kg

Avg Size of Female: Height:28-38cm(11-15in) Weight: 10-25 lbs (4.5-11kg

Temperament:

The Boston is devoted and sensitive to its owner's wishes and moods. It is well-mannered indoors but saucy and playful (especially enjoying ball chasing) whenever the chance arises. Somewhat stubborn, it is nonetheless clever and learns readily. It is reserved with strangers, and some may be aggressive toward strange dogs. Some bark a lot.

History:

Unlike most breeds, the origin of the Boston terrier is well-documented. Around 1865, the coachmen employed by the wealthy people of Boston began to interbreed some of their employers' fine dogs. One of these crosses, between an English terrier and a bulldog, resulted in a dog named Hooper's Judge. Although Judge weighed over 30 pounds, he was bred to a smaller female, and their son was in turn bred to another smaller female. Their progeny, probably interbred with one or more French bulldogs, provided the foundation for the Boston terrier. By 1889, the breed had become sufficiently popular in Boston that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, but this proposed name for the breed was not well-received by bull terrier fanciers. The breed's nickname, roundheads, was similarly inappropriate. Shortly after, the breed was named the Boston terrier, after its birthplace. Breeders continued to seek greater consistency. In early years, color and markings were not particularly important, but by the early 1900s, the breed's distinctive markings had become an essential breed feature. The handsome little Boston terrier quickly gained favor throughout America, ranking as one of the most popular breeds in the early to middle 1900s and retaining great popularity today.

Upkeep:

This is a lively dog that needs daily exercise and interaction with its people. It loves games, and most of its exercise requirements can be met with a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. It cannot live outdoors. Some Bostons wheeze and snore, and many don't tolerate heat well. The coat requires only minimal care, an occasional brushing to remove dead hairs.

Health:

Major concerns: none#Minor concerns: cataract, PDA, patellar luxation, stenotic nares#Occasionally seen: deafness, hydrocephalus, esophageal achalasia, distichiasis, persistent right aortic arch#Suggested tests: none#Life span: 10 – 14 years#Note: This breed does not tolerate the heat and is sensitive to anesthesia.It is prone to corneal abrasions. Caesarian deliveries are commonly needed.