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The Boston Terrier

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Breed Traits and Characteristics

According to the American Kennel Club, here are some breed characteristic you can find in Boston Terriers. 

 

  • Height

    15-17 inches

  • Weight

    12-25 pounds

  • Life Expectancy

    11-13 years

  • Coat Type/Length

    Smooth/Short

  •  100 Affectionate with Family
  • 100 Good with Young Children
  • 80 Good with Other Dogs
  • 80 Trainability Level
  • 80 Energy Level
  • 40 Barking Level
  • 40 Shedding Level
  • 20 Drooling Level

History

The Boston Terrier is named after the breed’s Boston, Massachusetts origins. Developed from a mix of English Bulldogs and white English Terriers, the breed descends from a dog named Judge, brought to America from England by William O’Brien and purchased by fellow Bostonian Robert C. Hooper in 1870. Known as Hooper’s Judge in breed histories, he is recognized as the “patriarch of the Boston Terrier breed” by the American Kennel Club.

Original Boston Terriers (colloquially nicknamed “roundheads”) weighed up to 44 pounds and became so popular around the city that the American Bull Terrier Club was formed in 1889. Soon after the club’s formation, local writer of note James Watson suggested the club change its name to the Boston Terrier Club, which it did in 1891. Continued breeding with French Bulldogs laid the foundation for the truly American breed we know today, and its distinctive colors and markings were written into its standard by the 20th century. Its good looks and popularity persist to this day – Boston University and Wofford College in South Carolina each boast Boston Terriers as their mascots, and it is the state dog of Massachusetts.

The Boston Terrier

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The Boston Terrier is a compact, sturdy, people-oriented dog with a lively disposition. The first native American breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club is immediately recognizable for its “tuxedo” coats (earning it the nickname “The American Gentleman”) and expressive eyes. These well-dressed dogs haven’t just earned their popularity with their fashion sense: they are intelligence-filled, always-alert natural comedians that tend to bring smiles to their owners’ faces.

Personality and Temperament

Boston Terriers possess loving, friendly personalities that easily wins hearts. Their very stable temperaments are excellent for first-time dog owners and seasoned veterans alike, as well as families with children. Highly sociable, intelligent, and entertaining, Boston Terriers are very trainable – especially early in life.

Boston Terrier Physical Characteristics

Boston Terriers are compact, well-balanced dogs with smooth, “tuxedo” coats, and short heads and tails. Their trademark eyes are expressive and prominent, and their head tilt when investigating something new is as well-loved as their happy, sure-footed gait.

While Boston Terriers shed infrequently, they do benefit from weekly brushings to remove hair from their sleek, fine coats. The American Kennel Club recommends occasional baths, as well as regular nail trimmings to prevent movement issues and pain.

Class & Color

Class

  • Non-Sporting Group

Color

  • Brindle, Black & White, Black Brindle & White, Brindle & White, Seal & White, Seal Brindle & White

Size and Life Expectancy

Size

  • Medium to Large
  • Height: 15-17 inches
  • Weight: 12-25 pounds

Life Expectancy

  • Boston Terriers typically live between 13-15 years.

Other Traits

  • Sporty, compact body
  • Sleek, fine-haired “tuxedo” jacket coat
  • Square head, with big, round eyes
  • Short tail

Bark Busters Trainer Jeff Drier on the Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers typically have a stable temperament that enables them to get along well with both animals and humans. While they are not a breed that Bark Busters receive a lot of calls for help with, one common issue seems to present itself: separation anxiety.

To understand separation anxiety, we must first understand how dogs think. Dogs are hardwired with a pack mentality. The corresponding hierarchy is determined using subtle, passive methods. We sometimes forget or are unaware of it, but we humans are included in the pack! The pack member who has greatest influence on the behavior of others is the leader, and Boston Terriers can become leaders of their human pack quite easily – their likeability and silly antics mean they are often given leeway by their owners that they interpret as an acknowledgement of their leadership.

Dogs display what they believe to be leadership behavior – often perceived as annoying or frustrating by humans – when they have determined they are in charge. This behavior can be situational and might include barking at people or dogs passing outside, rushing the door when someone comes to visit, and even becoming destructive when humans are away. Separation anxiety is an outgrowth of leadership – dogs get upset when the subordinates in their pack leave because, in their mind, they are responsible for “taking care” of them. Bostons become worried; that worry can be expressed by barking, destructive behavior, or toileting accidents.

Toby was one such Boston Terrier. He lives with his owner, Becky, in an apartment with thin walls. Toby would bark until exhausted as soon as Becky left for work each day – any noise he heard would set him off again, and the behavior would continue throughout the day. Constant barking meant plenty of neighbor complaints, so Becky called Bark Busters – after all, it’s our name!

Our trainer quickly observed the dynamics of the relationship and coached Becky on how to reassert her dominance as leader of the pack. Progress came quickly, and regular corrections meant it wasn’t very long before Toby was able to relax and nap until Becky got home.

If you have a Boston Terrier and need assistance resolving behavioral issues, call your local Bark Busters trainer. The sooner you get help, the sooner you and your dog can enjoy a happy, relaxed relationship built on loyalty, love, and respect – not worry or stress.

Tips for Potential Boston Terrier Owners

  • Boston Terriers have lovely, expressive eyes that require special attention. The American Kennel Club recommends checking them daily for signs of redness or irritation.
  • Responsible breeders regularly screen their stock for other common issues, including deafness and patellar luxation.
  • As a flat-faced breed, Boston Terriers may have breathing issues in extreme heat.
  • Boston Terriers do well in cities; while they love activities, their compact size means they do not need a lot of space.
  • If you are thinking of purchasing a Boston Terrier, be sure to source from a responsible breeder who is breeding for not only looks, but health and temperament as well. Rescues are also great options for prospective Boston Terrier owners. Contact your local Bark Busters trainer today to learn about great breeders and rescue organizations near you!

Like any breed, Boston Terriers benefit from early socialization and basic obedience training to establish patterns of good behavior.

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Need help training your Boston Terrier? Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

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Boston Terrier Grooming

While Boston Terriers shed infrequently, they do benefit from weekly brushings to remove hair from their sleek, fine coats. The American Kennel Club recommends occasional baths, as well as regular nail trimmings to prevent movement issues and pain.

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Hear from Bark Busters Clients Who Have a Boston Terrier

I am very impressed with what Marc has taught us today. My Boston Terrier was so changes after the first visit. I would highly recommend Bark Busters.
Nancy Wallen
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I didn’t have any confidence in myself as far as training Trooper goes. However, after the 2nd session I decided to buckle down and do our homework.
What a wonderful dog I have. It was money well spent not only for me but for Trooper! Nicholas Pagano was very patient and encouraging with us (mostly me)!
Trooper is my 5-year-old rescue Boston Terrier. My fourth! I love the breed. But since Trooper came to me from Texas I knew nothing about him, not even his birthday. Nicholas suggested that trooper may even been younger than 5.
Trooper’s issues were: PULLING, barking and rushing to the door, at people walking back & forth, squirrels, rabbits, birds, chipmunks, fear of the car, aggression towards the vacuum and grabbing tool.
Pulling was resolved with the proper harness (who knew?), now it is a pleasure to walk him. I have learned that terriers want to attack ALL little things so I just learn to be ready and offer a correction when I see a rodent presenting a problem. Of all my BTs, I never had one that actually treed squirrels!
Nicholas told me 'your dog is bored'!!! Who knew again! So puzzles were suggested. I love to watch him solve them. I really did learn a lot about having a dog! Even though I had 3 previous Bostons, this one is by far the most entertaining...he makes me laugh :)
We are still working on the fear of the car. I think the long ride from Texas to NJ may have traumatized him a bit. Also I have the tools to address the vacuum problem, so that’s a work in progress.
Trooper and I are buddies now…best friends and I am so grateful to Nicholas and Bark Busters for being there for us.
Robin Verhose
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Mason arrived on time and ready to help, with our 2 Boston terrier brothers. He spent 2 hours helping and observing and giving us feed back in the moment to help with behavioral issue. We have started using the commands and day one seeing progress! Thanks Mason and Bark Busters for a great experience.
Aishling D.
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We had used Bark Busters over 10 years ago for our previous dogs and had great success then. We just adopted a new dog, a 5 yo Boston terrier named Rocky who is amazing, but has had a rough history. We needed to get him more comfortable with children and other dogs and my first thought was Bark Busters! To my surprise Michelle was still there! I was even more pleasantly surprised that the program had evolved over the years. Better handouts and a color coded guide to how your dog is reacting at a given moment. I loved that. Michelle spent a ton of time with us and she was patient and supportive and we got an email the next day checking in on us. Great value, since it is for the life of your pup. Rocky is already doing better and we've only been working with him for 3 days! Thank you Michelle! You're the best!
Christine Dempsey
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Training was amazing, we learned a lot of new useful techniques that will help Suki be the beast! Amazing instruction and results!!!
Jaeger
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I learned how to get Beau's attention and how to hold it. I also learned the firm no / loving praise!
Cynthia .
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The training session was so helpful and made so much sense. John is an amazing behavioral trainer and so very knowledgeable. We felt heard and our issues were completely addressed.
Sandy D.
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John was great! It was a very productive session.
Michelle V.
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John is amazing!
Christine S.
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Our experience was so helpful - I feel like we gained so many new skills to resolve the issues with our dogs, the dynamics, and establish leadership in a confident way. I feel hopeful and see the path forward which feels so good to say after living in such stress for 2 years.
Johnny H.
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Everything I had problems with was addressed. Time spent working with Bruno was great!
Andy R.
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John had a wealth of knowledge for us. We saw an improvement on the first night of training. We are so looking forward to well-behaved dogs.
Tracy C.
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It was a productive traning session. We learned leash training setting boundaries and overall leadership. Orlando was a amazing trainer and was able to answer any questions we had. We are very happy with our session.
Kelly
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Orlando was amazing and I was well informed on how to train puppies without using force. After the training I feel confident to keep my puppies in my home.
Mike
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Helped make sure the meeting between Bella & Mr. Tiny would be peaceful and both can co-habitate peacefully.
Brian
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Orlando was Amazing! Honest & worked hard to train my dog quickly!
Kaylee
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I had an amazing experience with Robert — I saw results with my stubborn dog almost immediately. He quickly understood his personality, pinpointed the real issues, and showed me simple, effective techniques that actually worked. My dog is already calmer, more focused, and finally listening, and I left the first session feeling genuinely hopeful. I highly recommend Robert to anyone struggling with a tough dog.
Aaron
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Michael came to help with my 10 month old Australian Shepherd, who is mostly blind and hard of hearing, and my 6 year old Papillon/Springer mix. On day one Michael took the time to listen to all my concerns and carefully explain how to help and I saw an immediate drastic change, especially in my 10mo who was the main concern. I am blown away and so grateful for the help.
Taylor N.
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I have a beautiful and very sweet dog that I love dearly who is great with people and most dogs but literally wants to eat small dogs. I called Bark Busters desperate after an incident that ended in my husband getting bit pulling my dog off a small dog. Michael came into our home and spent the time listening to us and observing. He gave us tools to regain the control over our animals and taught us how to read body language in the dogs to be able to get the dog back into a “green” Zone and avoid “red” zone situations. We may never be able to fully trust our dog around other small dogs but we are very aware and using Bark Busters techniques to keep control over our giant breed dogs. I’m so happy and feel this was money well spent. Thank you so much!!!
Stephanie D.
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John has been incredible with our two pitbulls. I love telling people that my personal trainer is coming to the house - because the reality is that my husband and I are being trained how to be responsible alpha dogs! The training and guidance we have received has enabled us to produce two dogs that people can enjoy being around. Our daughter was blown away by the level of calm that has developed in our home. We still have a lot to learn but feel confident because John's unique training provides us with the tools to correct problems as they come up. He is available when we need him! We look forward to seeing him to show off what we accomplished. We recommend John to everyone!!
Kathleen Z.
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Both my husband & I have enjoyed working with James!! He’ is truly a dog “whisperer”! Although, we’ve had many dogs in our life, we found ourselves struggling with a young lively pup. He was reassuring, patient and always positive. We definitely benefited from his innumerable advice. Now after almost a year, we’ve gained a handle on our precious pup, Etta! She’s much more disciplined and delightful because of his guidance! We most wholeheartedly recommend Bark Busters!!
Rebecca M.
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Andy took our family from a place of nervous hope (having adopted a young pitbull from the local SPCA) to confident pride in our dog's ability to learn and improve. After the very first session, we felt we had a better handle on things. Andy has a natural ability to teach. In our case, his audience ranged from an 11 to 82 years old and we ALL walked away with the same impression: we understood better how dogs think, and how to can use that understanding to improve behavior. We have worked with professional dog trainers in the past (with previous family dogs) but have never felt as educated, empowered and joyfully optimistic as we did after our time with Andy. He truly is gifted at what he does!
Shimae .
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Robert began the training 20 minutes before our scheduled time with a call to our house to explain techniques to help with our dog that races to the door and excitedly greets guests by jumping on them. Then he patiently spent three hours with us to go over methods to establish boundaries that helped with our real challenge: a 65lb dog that likes to pull. I’m amazed at the progress we’ve made in just two days. Turns out WE needed the training and Robert was an excellent teacher for us all. We’d highly recommend.
Michael
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Susan has been fantastic. We’ve only been working with her for about 2 weeks and already there is significant improvement in my dog’s reactivity. My dog would pull on the leash and bark/lunge at people, other dogs and bikes. Susan is knowledgeable, patient and results oriented. The training exercises are simple and practical. I’d highly recommend!
Mary
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If you really want your dog's behavior to change rather than just teach them tricks, this is the Person you go to. Luis is a very kind and professional human who loves dogs and you can tell. He’ll definitely teach you how to understand your dog and read their behavior. My relationship with my dog has never been as strong as it is now, after he taught me to understand her and be there for her. My dog is 3 1/2 years old now, and I first hired Luis when she was approximately five months old. Having a husky is a challenge, but Luis has made my life so much easier. I recently moved in with my partner. Luis was there for us so that my partner can have the same connection with my dog as I have. Thank you so much, Luis!!
Loli N.
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Today was my first training session with Bonnie(amazing!!) and I couldn't be more pleased. She thoroughly explained what we would be working on with my 5-year-old golden, as well as the reasoning and science behind it. I saw changes in my dog after only one session working on staying calm and greeting people coming through the front door, recall exercises, leash walking and most importantly, establishing myself as pack leader (a work in progress!!) I can't wait for my next session and to see how my dog progresses. I was very pleased and impressed with Bonnie. She is very knowledgeable and a great trainer for both dog and human.
Kim N.
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Rob was amazing. We saw results with our dog almost immediately. Had all the tricks. He has been the only one willing to help us. The whole experience from the first phone call was amazing, professional and caring . Highly recommend.
Jessica .
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I have been working with Ryan at Bark Busters Colorado Springs, since February 2026… and I can’t tell you how much peace it’s brought me, and more importantly: my dog. As a single woman, and owner of a crafty hunting canine, I have employed at least four different dog training professionals. Ryan and the Bark Busters philosophy was the first where we had immediate behavior change, clear boundaries, and sound logic to make me feel confident in the ‘why.’ I have met with Ryan three times in the last month alone, and he’s always met my dog and I with empathy, kindness and enthusiasm. His gentle demeanor is appropriately countered with holding both of us (mostly me) accountable to the step-wise fashion of the program. I continue to see improvements in my dog’s confidence, a greater focus on me, steadiness in the home, and immediacy in responding to basic obedience- especially recall. I cannot recommend Ryan and the program enough! Seriously. If you’re considering their services – just do it. You, and your dog, will be so grateful you did <3
ACH
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Bring Out the Best in Your Boston Terrier: Submit Our Form to Learn How Expert Training Makes a Difference!

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Call us at 1-877-500-BARK (2275) for more information

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