— Featured Dog Breeds —

The Boston Terrier

Back to Featured Dog Breeds

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

Ask A Trainer

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.

Connect with Us!

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

Please begin by confirming your zip code.

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.

Tips for Every Dog Owner

Goldendoodle puppy on a dog bed

Raising a Puppy: How to Set Realistic Expectations

Raise a well-behaved puppy with clear leadership, structure, and consistency. Prevent problems early and build calm, lasting habits from day one.
Read More
Beagle playing with a ball in a grassy field

Spring Dog Safety Tips: How to Keep Your Dog Safe Outdoors

Keep your dog safe this spring with tips on parasite prevention, allergy relief, garden safety, and outdoor training with Bark Busters.
Read More
Two dogs playing and sniffing around in the backyard

Could Your Home Be Poisoning Your Dog? What Every Owner Should Know

Keep your dog safe from common household and yard poisons. Learn which foods, plants, chemicals, and medications are toxic.
Read More
Carl Peterson CEO of Bark Busters Home Dog Training with a Golden Retriever

Bark Busters Publishes 2026 National Dog Behavior Analysis

Bark Busters’ 2026 National Dog Behavior Analysis reveals top dog training trends, including reactivity, barking, and separation anxiety.
Read More
Woman brings home a rescued dog for the first time

How to Safely Bring Home an Adopted or Rescued Dog

Adopted a rescue dog? Learn how to prepare your home, set boundaries, and help your new dog adjust with confidence and calm.
Read More
Bark Busters trainer demonstrating how to show your dog you love them

How Can I Show My Dog Affection Without Reinforcing Bad Habits?

Learn how to show your dog love the right way—build trust, set healthy boundaries, and reinforce positive behaviors dogs truly understand.
Read More
Once thought of as dog motion sickness, a Bark Buster’s trained dog happily sits in the backseat of a car

Are You Sure Your Dog is Actually Carsick?

Dog motion sickness can be caused by physical nausea, stress, or emotional triggers. This guide covers the symptoms and causes, along with practical steps to help create calmer, safer, and more comfortable car rides for your dog.
Read More
Dog and cat getting along after their owner used Bark Busters tips for introducing cats and dogs

How Do You Introduce Dogs to Cats? A Calm, Humane Guide to a Safe First Meeting

Learn how to safely introduce dogs to cats with step-by-step guidance on scent sharing, safety zones, prey drive, and calm supervision.
Read More
A Siberian Husky enjoying a walk in the snow

Winter Pet Safety Tips to Keep Your Dog Warm and Healthy

Whether you live somewhere with freezing temperatures or reside in a milder climate, winter can bring some challenges for dogs. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can keep your pet safe and cozy.
Read More

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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Helped make sure the meeting between Bella & Mr. Tiny would be peaceful and both can co-habitate peacefully.
Brian
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Orlando was Amazing! Honest & worked hard to train my dog quickly!
Kaylee
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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 .
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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 .
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
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
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Highly recommend the training and the trainer.

Within my first lesson with Scott, my terrier daschund mix went from aggression & resource guarding towards everyone (but me) to a much more relaxed dog that no longer lunges, nips and barks at others! It's the closest thing to a miracle, but it's based in science so I am sure it can work for you too. I learned what my dog needed from me and began speaking her language with positive changes immediately seen. The program does take regular effort but like anything, you can build new habits quickly when you see them paying off.

Scott is easy to work with and teaches in a learn-by-doing method as well as providing clear verbal and written education.

This process has been extremely positive for me and my dog. I know she will never be a chill "brewery" dog, but she is so much more relaxed and I now have the tools to keep her feeling safe and not stressed.
Suzie Ellison .
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Being the Pastor's pup and our parish mascot, it was essential that our friendly and energetic year-old Havanese puppy be well socialized. Andy trains both the dog and its humans brilliantly! He makes training exercises fun and challenging. We had homework assignments and saw improvements starting with the very first lesson in January. Andy's is not a cookie-cutter approach. He tailors training and coaching to the animal's personality, environment, and his human family's requirements. He is also always there for us to answer any questions or concerns. Thanks to Andy, our beloved pup now regularly accompanies the Pastor on parishioner visits, and is much in demand by young and old at Sunday Hospitality and other parish gatherings. He is a source of great joy to our church family!
Patricia
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We had a great experience with our trainer, Sharon! Our 5-month-old toy poodle, Jax, has made huge progress with potty training, leash walking, and adjusting to our home. She was patient, knowledgeable, and especially wonderful including my 7-year-old daughter, Millie, in the process. It made such a difference for our whole family. Highly recommend Sharon and Bark Busters!
Alyssa G.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Sharon is an amazing trainer! She is so patient and kind (with me and my dog). Our dog went from being very aggressive toward new people and guests to being so sweet and willing to meet them! They will meet you at your house or any place you would like to train. I think it is very important to train in real settings, not a false setting like a facility. The results are fantastic! Highly recommend to ease tensions and reduce stress with an ill-behaved pup!
Maggy B.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We highly recommend Doug and Bark Busters! We have two young dogs that had a few behaviors we needed corrected. Reactivity, pulling on the leash, constant barking at people on walks, and jumping up on everyone they meet. In just a few sessions with Doug, our dogs are transformed. I was ready to start putting the dogs in a kennel every time we go camping this summer, but now I’m looking forward to being able to bring them along and actually enjoy our time together.
Justin G.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Holly from Bark Busters has been an incredible help with my two Goldendoodles. She started working with us when they were puppies about two years ago and has played a huge role in helping them grow into sweet, well-behaved dogs. Holly is very professional, knowledgeable, and also incredibly personable. One thing I really appreciate is that she proactively checks in with me from time to time and even comes back to help get us back on track when I drop the ball with training. I would absolutely recommend Holly to anyone looking for effective, supportive dog training.
Jelena
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
I approached Scott and Holly with a complex request. Help me learn to better understand my blind and deaf dog who had developed aggression over the past few months. My rescue had taken a turn and no matter the number of books I read, or the trainers I hired, I was no closer to speaking her language.

Sage and I worked together well. She learns commands quickly and is so smart, but she was losing trust in me and I didn’t know how to gain it back. I was desperate. I looked to board and trains that promised obedience, but they were not right for us for a plethora of reasons. (Learned after some thousands of dollars later). We needed hands on help, guidance and someone to listen.

Scott communicated openly with me, and after our first training I saw an end to the tension we’d been living with. I saw Sage responding to me and listening. We were working together again.

I can’t speak for all Barkbusters trainers, but these two are exceptional at helping you understand and lead your dog. I appreciate their approach of positive reinforcement suited to Sage along with gentle redirects. They will do everything they can to help, even if it means suggesting other trainers or programs.

I’ve only just begun this process with them but seeing Sage settle instead of growl and protect her bed has me hopeful for a better future for her and me both. It’ll be a long road but I see way less potholes in it now. Maybe some bumps but we can handle that.

If you want to learn alongside your companion, if you want to put in the work - give them a call.
Andrea
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We have had one of the best experiences working with Michael as our dog trainer. We have three German Shepherds, a 6 year old, a 2 year old, and a 10 month old, and from day one Michael’s training approach helped us better understand our dogs and how to communicate with them.
What we appreciated most is the technique Michael teaches. It is firm but not aggressive, and it really focuses on setting clear boundaries while still allowing you to build a strong relationship with your dog. As dog lovers, that meant a lot to us.
We have worked with other trainers in the past, but Michael’s program truly stands above the rest. The difference in our dogs’ behavior and in our confidence as owners has been incredible.
If I could give more than five stars, I absolutely would. Highly recommend Michael to anyone looking for a trainer who truly understands dogs and how to teach owners the right way to work with them.
Ben
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We have had a fantastic experience working with Lydia thus far! We were struggling with our new dog's severe separation anxiety. We felt like we couldn't leave the home without at times. The tools we learned from Bark Busters changed EVERYTHING. We now have a dog that can be confident and independent on her own. The fundamenal tools they gave us made such a tremendous difference in allowing us to properly train our dogs. We're so excited to continue working towards new goals with the bark busters team.
James
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
James with Bark Busters is absolutely incredible. My dog Jack is now 8 years old, and we have been working with Bark Busters since he was just 1. Thanks to James and the techniques he taught me, Jack grew into a well-trained, happy dog.

What I love most about Bark Busters is that the service is for the life of your dog. Even though Jack is very well trained now, I’ve still reached out to James over the years for guidance—like when introducing a new dog into the home or when I just needed a refresher on training techniques. Every time, he has been so kind, patient, and incredibly helpful.

James has a wealth of knowledge, but what really sets him apart is that he doesn’t just train your dog—he teaches you how to understand your dog. The skills and techniques he shares truly last a lifetime and make such a difference in your relationship with your pet.

I can’t recommend James and Bark Busters highly enough. If you want real results and a trainer who genuinely cares, Bark Busters are the people to call.
Rebecca H.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Hello! I have been working with Sharon for about a year now. My dog has been dealing with fear, anxiety, and reactviity around others and overreacting to stimuli. Sharon has helped me understand how I can make my dog feel safer, calmer and micro dose my dog to have better interactions. Using her guidance over several sessions in various settings including in and around my home and in public, I have seen improvement that has made it easier for me to have control over my life and allowed me to move to my dream location with far less concern for my dog's mental health. Sharon has done quite a few follow-up sessions as needed to support us in this journey. Thank you Sharon!
Evan A.
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings

Bring Out the Best in Your Boston Terrier: Submit Our Form to Learn How Expert Training Makes a Difference!

Confirm your zip code and submit the brief form. We’ll be in touch within 24 hours to go over training options for your dog. Ditch the stress of group classes and choose tailored, in-home training that works for you.

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

  • 99.7% 4 or 5 stars 99.7% rate their experience with Bark Busters as 4 or 5 out of 5 stars.
  • 99.6% Would Recommend 99.6% would recommend Bark Busters to their friends and neighbors.
  • 99.5% Dog Responded 99.5% think their dog responded well to the training.

Looking for Assistance Training Your Boston Terrier? Find Your Local Trainer Now!

CALL TODAY 1-877-500-BARK (2275)

Please begin by confirming your zip code.