Boston Terriers have a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century.
They were originally bred for companionship and entertainment, as they are known for their gentle and affectionate nature.
In 1893, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Boston Terrier breed, solidifying its place in history.
Boston Terriers typically weigh between 10-25 pounds and stand between 10-15 inches tall at the shoulder.
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About Boston Terriers
Boston Terriers are one of the most popular breeds in the world, known for their affectionate and gentle nature.
They originated from England as a cross between an Old English Bulldog and a Pug, but were developed further in the United States in the 19th century.
Boston Terriers typically weigh between 10-25 pounds and stand about 10-15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their short coats come in three main colors: seal, black, and brindle.
They are known for their distinctive "tuxedo" markings on their face.
Caring for a Boston Terrier
Caring for a Boston Terrier requires daily exercise and interaction with your family. They thrive on games and activities that keep them engaged.
Their energetic nature means they need regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy. A romp in the yard or a short walk on leash can meet most of their exercise requirements.
Some Boston Terriers wheeze and snore, so it's essential to monitor their breathing and address any concerns with your veterinarian. Many also don't tolerate heat well, so be mindful of extreme temperatures.
The coat requires minimal care, but an occasional brushing to remove dead hairs is necessary to keep them looking their best.
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Boston Terrier History and Rescue
The Boston Terrier breed has a rich history that dates back to 1865 when coachmen in Boston began interbreeding their employers' fine dogs, resulting in a dog named Hooper's Judge, who provided the foundation for the breed.
This unique breeding process led to the formation of the American Bull Terrier Club in 1889, but the name didn't stick due to its association with the existing Bull Terrier breed. Instead, the breed was eventually named after its birthplace, becoming known as the Boston Terrier.
By 1893, just under 20 years after its creation, the Boston Terrier had gained recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC), a meteoric rise in popularity that's impressive even by today's standards.
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Health
Boston Terriers are generally a healthy breed with no major concerns, but they can be prone to some minor issues.
One potential issue is patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This is a relatively common problem in small breeds like Boston Terriers.
Stenotic nares and elongated soft palate are also minor concerns that may affect your Boston Terrier's breathing or eating habits.
Allergies can be another issue to watch out for, especially if you notice excessive scratching or skin irritation in your dog.
Deafness and seizures are occasionally seen in Boston Terriers, but these conditions are not as common as the minor issues mentioned above.
Cataracts and demodicosis (a type of mange) may also occur, although these are relatively rare problems.
If you're concerned about your Boston Terrier's health, it's a good idea to have them checked for knee, eye, and hearing issues. This can help identify any potential problems early on.
On average, a Boston Terrier's lifespan is around 10-14 years, which is a relatively long time considering their small size.
It's worth noting that Boston Terriers don't tolerate heat well and may be sensitive to anesthesia. They're also prone to corneal abrasions, so you'll want to keep an eye out for any signs of injury or irritation around the eyes. Caesarean deliveries are often necessary due to the breed's delicate nature during childbirth.
History
The Boston Terrier breed has a well-documented origin story that dates back to around 1865.
Coachmen employed by wealthy people in Boston began interbreeding their employers' fine dogs, resulting in the first known cross between an English Terrier and a Bulldog, named Hooper's Judge.
By 1889, the breed had gained popularity in Boston, but its proposed name, American Bull Terrier Club, was met with resistance from Bull Terrier fans.
The breed's nickname "roundheads" was also deemed inappropriate.
Instead, it was named after its birthplace, becoming known as the Boston Terrier.
Less than 20 years later, the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1893, a remarkably short time for a new breed to gain recognition.
In early years, color and markings were not particularly important, but by the early 1900s, they had become an essential feature of the breed.
Rescue Organizations
If you're thinking about adopting a Boston Terrier from a rescue organization, there are several options available to you.
The Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue serves four states: Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana. They average over 10 rescues per week.
These organizations work tirelessly to educate the public on pet overpopulation, spaying/neutering, and quality dog care.
You can also consider Southern Cross Boston Terrier Rescue, which covers Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana.
Their adoption process requires you to be at least 21 years old, have proof of your landlord's consent, and ensure that other pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and free of contagious illnesses.
Here is a breakdown of the adoption costs for the Southern Cross Boston Terrier Rescue:
The rescue also requires that you're willing to spend quality time bonding with your new Boston Terrier.
Contact Information
If you're interested in learning more about Boston Terriers and getting involved with their rescue efforts, there are several ways to get started.
You can visit the website of Midwest BT Rescue at https://midwestbtrescue.org/, which provides valuable information on adopting a Boston Terrier or volunteering your time.
Their contact information is listed as Jackson, TN 38301.
If you'd like to reach out directly, you can call them at (88) 337-2287.
Allie - Oh1529
Allie - OH1529 is a former puppy mill mama who still has lots to learn about being part of a family.
She suffers from separation anxiety, but can hang out with other dogs to help establish pack order once she learns her place.
House training is an ongoing process for Allie.
Her affectionate nature and food motivation make her a great candidate for a patient owner, ideally someone who's retired or works from home.
With continued work in a foster home setting, Allie is progressing well.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What services are offered by Boston Terrier Rescue NC?
Boston Terrier Rescue of North Carolina offers rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services for Boston terriers in need. They provide a safe haven for surrendered dogs and help find them new forever homes.
Sources
- Boston Terrier Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Info (petfinder.com)
- Adoptable Dogs (midwestbtrescue.org)
- Adoption Application (petstablished.com)
- Boston Terrier Rescues In Indiana - Cost & Adoption Process (bostonterriersociety.com)
- Pin It (pinterest.com)
- puppy mill) (adoptaboston.com)
- http://www.adoptaboston.com/about/rescue-statistics/ (adoptaboston.com)
- http://www.adoptaboston.com (adoptaboston.com)
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