AkC Boston Terrier Breed Overview

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Close-Up Shot of a Boston Terrier Dog
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The Boston Terrier is a small, affectionate dog breed that originated in the United States in the mid-19th century.

They were originally bred as a companion dog, and their friendly, outgoing personalities made them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

One of the defining characteristics of the Boston Terrier is its distinctive "tuxedo" coat, which features a mix of black and white markings.

Boston Terriers typically weigh between 10-25 pounds and stand between 10-15 inches tall at the shoulder.

History and Origin

The Boston Terrier breed has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. They originated in Boston, Massachusetts, and were initially bred as fighting dogs.

One of the earliest known ancestors of the Boston Terrier was a dog named Judge, a Bulldog/English Terrier cross that was imported from England in 1865. Judge was a well-built dog with a calm temperament.

The original Boston Terriers were bred to be intelligent, determined, and tenacious, making them excellent ratters and fighting dogs. They were especially popular in mining regions in the 1870s.

History

Portrait of a Black and White Boston Terrier
Credit: pexels.com, Portrait of a Black and White Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier breed has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The exact origin is unclear, but one story is that a Bostonian, Robert C. Hooper, imported a Bulldog/English Terrier cross named Judge from England in 1865.

Judge was a well-built 14.5kg dog with an even temperament, and he was bred to produce a litter of puppies that were widely bred across the United Kingdom. These puppies were then bred with French Bulldogs to form the Boston Terrier breed we know and love today.

The original Boston Terriers were especially popular in mining regions in the 1870s, thanks to their high intelligence and their reputation for being excellent ratters. They were also prized for their determination and tenacity as fighting dogs.

The Boston Terrier breed was first exhibited in a class for "Round Headed Bull Terriers of any colour" in 1888, and they were known as the Boston Round Head. This name would stay with the breed for some time.

Portrait of Boston Terrier in Costume
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Here's a brief timeline of the Boston Terrier's history:

Beaux

Beaux, a name that evokes a sense of elegance and refinement. AKC Boston Terriers are bred in a caring home, where the intention is to raise healthy and quality dogs that meet the American Kennel Club standard.

The breeders at Beaux Bostons take a comprehensive approach to health, contracting a guarantee that ensures their dogs are free from certain conditions. They test for JHC, BAER, and Patella issues, giving prospective owners peace of mind.

Beaux Bostons also prioritize socialization and training from an early age, providing a basic training environment for their puppies and adults alike. This sets them up for success in their new homes.

Of Harbor

Boston Terriers have a long history, and their name actually comes from Boston Harbor. This is where the breed originated, and it's a fascinating story.

The breed was developed in the 19th century by crossing various breeds, including the Old English Bulldog and the English Terrier.

Physical Characteristics

Credit: youtube.com, Important AKC Breed Standards for Boston Terriers

The Boston Terrier is a compact, short-tailed dog breed with a blockish square head that's flat on top. Their muzzles are short and square, right to the tip of their nose, and they have a very defined line between their nostrils.

Boston Terriers have distinct large round eyes set wide apart on the head, giving them a kind, yet alert, expression that showcases their sharp intelligence. Their small ears are thin, set wide apart, and carried upright.

The Boston Terrier's forequarters are muscular and their shoulders slope slightly. They also have a muscular body with a curved rump, giving the impression of a short body.

The ideal markings of the Boston Terrier include a white muzzle and an even white patch that covers the head, breast, collar, all or part of the front legs, and below the hocks on their hind legs. These markings make the Boston Terrier look like they're wearing a smart tuxedo.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Dogo Argentino Muscles

Credit: youtube.com, Boston Terrier - AKC Dog Breed Series

Here are the accepted colors of the Boston Terrier breed:

  • Black and white
  • Black and white brindle
  • Black brindle and white
  • Brindle
  • Brindle and white
  • Mahogany and white
  • Mahogany brindle
  • Mahogany brindle and white
  • Red and white
  • Seal and white
  • Seal brindle
  • Seal brindle and white

The tail of the Boston Terrier is set low and tapers to a tip at the end, and can be carried straight or curled but should never sit above the level of the back.

Temperament and Personality

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, with a strong sense of humor that makes them a joy to be around.

They're generally eager to please and can be easily trained, which is a big plus for first-time dog owners. Their usually sensible attitude toward barking also makes them a great choice for apartment dwellers.

Male Boston Terriers can be more territorial and protective than their female counterparts, so it's essential to socialize them properly from an early age.

Kulakumu

Kulakumu Boston Terriers is a reputable breeder that prioritizes the standard of the Boston Terrier, promoting good health and wonderful dispositions. They're located in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Boston terrier puppy
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Their breeding stock is health tested yearly, which is a great sign of their commitment to responsible dog ownership.

Terry Maddox, the breeder, is a 3rd Generation Boston Terrier Family, suggesting a deep understanding and knowledge of the breed.

They raise their puppies in their family home with lots of socialization, which is essential for a dog's development and temperament.

Temperament

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and gentle nature, often described as "happy-go-lucky" and having a merry sense of humor. They tend to be eager to please and easy to train.

Male Boston Terriers can be more territorial and protective than females, which may lead to aggressive behavior towards other pets and strangers. This is why proper socialization from an early age is crucial.

Boston Terriers are generally quiet and only bark when necessary, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers. They have a sensible attitude towards barking.

Boston Terriers form strong bonds with their owners, which can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if left alone. This is why it's essential to provide them with plenty of attention and interaction.

Credit: youtube.com, Temperament & Personality

With early socialization, Boston Terriers can grow into confident, well-rounded, and well-behaved adults. This process should start from puppyhood and expose them to various situations, people, sights, and sounds.

Consistency and persistence are key to successful training, as Boston Terriers can be stubborn at times. Positive reinforcement training methods, such as using treats and playtime as rewards, work best for these friendly dogs.

Health and Care

Boston Terriers are known to be relatively healthy dogs, with an average life expectancy of 13-15 years. However, they can suffer from certain medical conditions.

Their short, close-lying coats require minimal grooming, with weekly brushing being sufficient to keep their skin and coat in good condition. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and checking for any wounds or rashes are also essential.

Some common health issues to watch out for include patellar luxation, cataracts, and deafness. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify these conditions early on.

Mntview

Boston terrier puppy
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Mntview takes the health and care of their Boston Terriers very seriously. They have been breeding, showing, and loving Bostons for 19 years.

Their breeding program is guided by the standard set forth by the Boston Terrier Club of America. They strictly adhere to this standard.

Mntview health tests for several genetic conditions, including Juvenile cataracts, regular cataracts, hearing issues, and patellas. They also test for heart problems when testing is available.

Their Bostons are home-raised with lots of love, care, and attention. They are part of the family.

Coat & Care

Boston terriers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require only a weekly brushing to remove loose hairs and encourage new ones to grow.

Their short, close-lying coats make them easy to maintain. You can do this by simply brushing them once a week.

To keep their ears clean and dry, check them regularly and wipe them out with a damp cloth or cotton ball and a vet-approved ear cleaner. This should be done once a week.

Credit: youtube.com, Best tips to care your dog's coat & skin like our dogs.

Their nails need to be trimmed regularly, ideally once or twice a month. You can do this while checking their paw pads for any dirt or cuts.

During grooming, it's also a good idea to check your dog's whole body for any wounds, rashes, or other signs of health conditions. Examine their eyes too, making sure they're clean and clear without any discharge.

Here are some key points to remember when it comes to coat and care:

  • Brush your Boston terrier once a week to remove loose hairs and encourage new ones to grow.
  • Check their ears regularly and wipe them out with a damp cloth or cotton ball and a vet-approved ear cleaner.
  • Trim their nails once or twice a month.
  • Check their paw pads for any dirt or cuts.
  • Examine their eyes for any discharge or signs of health conditions.

Popularity and Breeding

Boston Terriers have a long history in the United States, originating from the country itself. They're also recognized as symbols of Massachusetts.

Boston Terriers are classified as toy dogs and terriers, which explains their small to medium size and energetic personality. They're known to be companion dogs, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

Here are some of the key characteristics of Boston Terriers:

  • FCI breeds
  • Dog breeds originating in the United States
  • Symbols of Massachusetts
  • Companion dogs
  • Terriers
  • Toy dogs

Amva Kennel

The AMVA Kennel has been raising and showing Boston Terriers in the conformation ring since 2006. Their Bostons are part of the family and live in their house.

All of their Bostons are health tested for Baer/Patella’s/CERF. They also have available puppies and occasionally an older Boston for adoption.

Blossoms and Beaus

Boston terrier puppy
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Blossoms and Beaus is a reputable breeder that prioritizes the well-being of their dogs. They focus on holistic dog breeding and care, making sure every aspect is considered, including breed standard, health testing, and temperament.

Their breeding program is built on the Puppy Culture system, which helps produce confident and eager-to-learn puppies. This approach ensures that their dogs grow into well-adjusted family members.

Blossoms and Beaus adheres strictly to the breed standard, also known as the Blueprint, to preserve the integrity of the breed. They're preservation breeders dedicated to ensuring the future of the Boston Terrier breed.

Their breeding services include puppies, occasional adults, and stud service to approved bitches.

Other Colors

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes and registers Boston Terriers of other colors, but they're excluded from conformation events.

These dogs can still participate in most AKC events, as long as both parents have AKC registration.

The AKC registers them based on their colors, such as white and black, or white paired with other color spots.

Dogs with unique features like long tails, blue eyes, or weak ears can be registered, but they wouldn't qualify for AKC conformation events.

The Boston Terrier Club of America (BTCA) dictates conformation standards, which means these dogs won't meet the breed standard for conformation showing.

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Boston Terriers are a beloved breed, and for good reason. They're known for being friendly and affectionate companions.

One notable Boston Terrier is Bruschi, who holds the Guinness World Record for having the largest eyes. His eyes are a whopping 1.1 inches in diameter, or 28 mm.

Boston Terriers are often classified as toy dogs, which means they're small in size but big in personality. They're also part of the FCI breeds and the Terriers category.

If you're looking for a breed that's both cute and cuddly, Boston Terriers might be the perfect fit. They're also great companions for families and individuals alike.

Some interesting facts about Boston Terriers include:

  • They're dog breeds originating in the United States.
  • They're symbols of Massachusetts.
  • They're companion dogs, meaning they thrive on human interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are AKC registered Boston Terriers?

AKC registered Boston Terriers typically cost between $900 to $2,500, with an average price of $1,300, depending on the breeder's reputation and the puppy's lineage

What two breeds make a Boston Terrier?

The Boston Terrier was bred from the English Bulldog and a white English Terrier. This unique mix of breeds resulted in a distinct and recognizable dog.

Why are Boston Terriers so special?

Boston Terriers are known for their playful, affectionate, and intelligent nature, making them a beloved companion for families. Their unique blend of energy, sweetness, and trainability sets them apart as a truly special breed.

What are the standard markings for a Boston Terrier?

Boston Terriers have distinctive markings that include a white muzzle band, blaze, collar, and white on their legs. They must also have sufficient merit to balance out any excess white on their head or body.

What is the standard coat color of a Boston Terrier?

The standard coat colors of a Boston Terrier are brindle, seal, or black. They often have white markings to complement their base color.

Mildred Luettgen

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Mildred Luettgen is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a passion for curating engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the publishing industry, she has honed her skills in assigning and overseeing articles across various categories. Mildred's expertise spans topics such as Canine Nutrition Planning, where she has successfully guided writers in crafting informative and accessible pieces for a wide range of audiences.

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