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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

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.

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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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Our two female dogs recently broke into a bad fight out of nowhere. My husband and I got worried because we were going to our trip in the beginning of February and the fight happened literally on Christmas night.

My husband told me to quickly call trainers around the area to figure out the best estimate and best advice for the issues we were facing. I literally cried because we have had these two girls being sisters to each other for 6 years with no sign of aggression to suddenly be fighting and not being able to be in the same room.

I called a few places and got a hold of Jared. When I spoke to him on the phone he was the only person that was not trying sell me something right away. He was honest with me hoping that we didn't need to pay for the service because he was hoping a quick back to normal between them.

I told my husband that we will hired Jared when we need him. And we did! It has been a great training experience for us. Jared has been well in giving us tips and advices. He helped us bringing our dogs back to normal pretty quickly too. Now they are back to normal that I somewhat felt that I was gaslit by my dogs.

We are excited to continue using Jared of our dog training for the whole year and glad that we found someone who is genuinely forthcoming with their training and services without trying to just upsell us!
Jevanka
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We recently had the pleasure of working with Rob. He designed a behavioral training plan for our adopted dog Holly who has separation anxiety, excessive barking, and is overly excitable. Rob’s calm manner during our home training session was professional, informative, and tailored with strategies that suited Holly’s needs.
Robs behavioral training plan provided clear step by step instructions that were easy to understand and implement during our first training session.
The importance of establishing rules, building trust and creating boundaries were particularly beneficial. We are very grateful!
Highly recommend!
Jeanne
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We wish we would have contacted Bark Busters long ago! We are a much happier fur family now! The barking and leash pulling has decreased significantly. Our dogs are more calm and relaxed and generally happier. Highly recommend Michael at Bark Busters!
Sarah M.
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Michael did a great job walking us through the process to practice the role-playing to ensure that we could properly train our German Shepherd.
He was patient and very clear and instructions and I think we are in a good place moving forward.
Marte B.
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We hired Justin for our 1 year old Frenchie, Medusa. She used to be a total nightmare. Food aggressive toward our other Frenchie, snapping whenever we tried to wipe anything in front of her, couldn't fix blankets without her attacking them, constant jumping/hyperactivity and she would NEVER sit in her car seat for a ride, constantly had to be held. After working with Justin, everything changed.

Justin never used a shock collar or boarded her. He came to our home and used his corrective action and tool kit to keep her in the green zone at all times. Within a few sessions she stopped guarding her food, allowed us to clean without any aggression, and for the first time she slept through an entire car ride.

The results have been dramatic and lasting. Justin also taught US clear, humane cues so we can keep the progress going on our own. If you want a trainer who respects your dog, works in your environment, and delivers real, lasting change, Justin is the one to call. He is also a super amazing human who has great energy and responds to every text/questions even after the sessions. He will definitely be getting a Christmas gift! He has changed our lives and hers!!
Andrea A.
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We have two dogs whom we rescued and, despite weighing only 30 lbs. each, they were running the place. They only responded to commands when there was something in it for them.
We just had our initial 3 hour session with Michael, and already they are calmer, less timid in new situations, and respond almost immediately when they are corrected - by using our voices and/or clapping almost exclusively.
We have tried obedience classes and training methods before with other dogs - and none of them have made this much difference in so little time!
Anne B.
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Michael was amazing as he was very kind and patient.His knowledge of a dogs brain and how it works made our first session a success.I am impressed how much Duke learned in a short period of time.Now instead of feeling anxious about taking him out I feel more confident.Looking forward to our next sessions.Thank you Mike!!
Lori A.
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Highly recommend! Barbara has been amazing with my dog. After the first visit alone, I saw such a big difference in his manners. Not only has it been great for my dog, but for me as the owner. Barbara has helped me gain such a boost in confidence in training him also.
Ally G.
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We would highly recommend Sharon and Bark Busters. We were having trouble with our pup especially with personal space, general obedience, no recall, fear of people, and barking at everything. We have had many dogs before but this one is a handful. When Sharon came, it was remarkable how quickly our dog responded. She showed us simple, effective exercises and clearly explained what we needed to do to get our dog where we wanted her to be. It was also great to have a training method that is friendly and not treat-driven. Looking back, it’s surprising how far off we were in using the right approach, but with Sharon’s guidance, we’ve seen a dramatic improvement in our dog.
Alex P.
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Bark Busters training absolutely transformed the dynamic with our two beloved pit bull rescues!!
As dog-owners for 18 years, it was extremely disheartening to be experiencing such a difficult time with these two otherwise sweet and affectionate dogs. Both were very reactive to other dogs, cats, squirrels, birds, etc. and walks had become a dreaded task. One was extremely fearful and reactive to loud noises. After numerous incidents of being dragged or knocked over during walks, we decided to look into some training. Within one session, James taught us how to communicate effectively with them and gave us skills to practice to achieve calm, relaxing walks with our pups. It is well worth the time and the expense to give it a try. We wish we had done it sooner instead of spending a fortune on dozens of leashes, "no-pull" harnesses, prong collars, even pet store training classes that never, never fixed the problem. The method James teaches WORKS!! It is not an exaggeration to say it was life-changing for our family!!
And in the span of just a few weeks, I have never seen our two dogs, Honey & Cookie, more confident and content.
Maria M.
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Our super reactive lab has been through 4 different trainers and he has gotten a little better each time but has been VERY challenging with guests at our home and walks in our neighborhood - until we met James with Bark Busters! Having James come to our house and train in our neighborhood has been a game changer. We had SIGNIFICANT progress after just one visit - more than several lessons with all our other trainers.

James is great at explaining how to read Carl, he gives us different tools to use for Carl's different issues and always follows up with a thorough summary of what we went over in lessons and what to continue to work on.

It is incredible the change we have seen in our boy Carl and we are so grateful to James! And he is a super nice guy to boot!
Jennifer S.
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We had a fantastic experience working with James and can't recommend him highly enough.
Our dog Yaki used to be a serious puller on walks and would get overly excited whenever he saw other dogs.
It got to the point where we'd actively avoid other dogs altogether--which isn't exactly practical in a townhome community full of them.

James didn't just "train the dog"-he trained us. He helped us understand how to recognize when Yaki was entering that "yellow zone" before things escalated to red, and gave us the tools to redirect him early. His approach focused on energy, body language, and even using our own "bark" to communicate clearly and confidently.

The biggest shift was helping Yaki understand that he doesn't need to protect us--we've got that covered.
That change alone made a world of difference.

Now, walks are actually enjoyable. We can move through our neighborhood calmly and confidently without the constant stress we used to feel.

If you're dealing with similar challenges, James is absolutely worth it.
Carl C.
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Lynn Woodard was above and beyond our wildest expectations. She only had 2 weeks to work with our daughter’s dog, Daisy. She was so professional, kind and supportive, and after only 3 sessions we all saw a huge change in both Daisy’s behavior and the way in which our daughter now felt comfortable and in control.
Thank you Lynn for all your help. You are an asset to your company, a real gem.
Muffy D.
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Lynn is a class act! She is truly amazing. So kind and professional and knowledgeable. We are so impressed! Thank you Lynn!! Love the approach and the simplicity. She is a real gem!
Megan D.
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First I want to start by saying it all started with the first initial phone call…. Hanna was wonderful and put me at complete ease with my difficult pet situation. We then met and again still just as wonderful in person as on the phone she’s great with my pets and helps to train us as well!
Lauren R.
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Wow.... Hannah from Bark Busters is pure magic at teaching us about dog psychology and how to manage dog behavior. Our 1 year old golden retriever was really a wild teenager 2 days ago. Today he is well mannered and making the right choices. Hard to believe but totally true! I highly recommend Hannah at Bark busters Phoenix/Scottsdale..
Elisabeth P.
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Hannah has worked with us to train our puppy and our senior dog (and us) ever since we brought our puppy home. Her positive approach to training works like a charm — it is truly amazing to watch her in action. She is encouraging and patient with each new challenge we have faced as our puppy develops, arming us with the tools we need to succeed. Thanks to Hannah, we are a happy “pack” with years of enjoyment ahead of us. I recommend her wholeheartedly!
Dara D.
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Bark Busters has been absolutely incredible so far! Our dog Aurelius, a high-energy and highly intelligent Jack Russell, has already made huge strides thanks to their thoughtful and strategic approach to training.

As any Jack Russell owner knows, they’re clever, spirited, and will definitely test boundaries if you let them! From the start, Hanna has shown a deep understanding of Aurelius’ needs. She’s not only brilliant during our 1:1 sessions, but she’s also developed a personalized training plan that gives us tools to use in everyday life. The consistency between sessions and homework has made all the difference.

What stands out most is the clarity and structure of Bark Busters' program. Hanna’s expertise has helped us build the right kind of boundaries—ones that support Aurelius’ confidence and reinforce our role as calm, assertive leaders.

We’re so excited about the progress we’ve already made, and we know we have more to go—but it’s reassuring to know we have such an amazing trainer guiding us. If you're on the fence, this is hands-down the best investment you can make in your dog’s behavior and your peace of mind!
Ralph M.
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Hannah is incredible! My GSD, Elvira caught on the very first day. I was afraid she was going to be untrainable!!! I look forward to more training seasons. At this rate Elvira will be making our family dinners! 10/10 recommend.
Melissa D.
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I was apprehensive of all dog training honestly!! Hanna and Bark Busters approach is completely different than all other trainers and facilities I’ve interviewed. I feel more empowered and the dogs are happier, and our bond has increased. It sounds odd to say but I feel the dog love flowing between us and them even more, because boundaries are clear so we can enjoy the time together without stress! It’s life changing magic it really is.
My husband has had dogs all his life but these two special personalities needed extra attention from a pro to manage some reactivity and just over the top goofy behavior. Well worth every penny spent!!!
Nicole W.
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Hannah has been an amazing with our rescued golden doodle. He had severe reactivity with other dogs and she gave us the tools to improve his behavior significantly. After a few trips to the dog park walking around the outside just observing and desensitizing him he was able to sniff a few dogs through the fence without getting aggressive. We still have lots of work to do but I would highly recommend Bark Busters and Hannah. She’s fabulous and very patient!
Kristi H.
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Just started working with Hanna and so far super impressed with the work that she has done. We have a very smart 10 month old puppy who is too smart for his own good. Hanna spent over two hours working with us and getting us into a good routine. Reinforcing what we were doing right and teaching us (and our up) where we needed to make adjustments. Great job so far!!
Ted M.
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Hanna is amazing! Our dogs are 8 and 11 and we are correcting some behavioral issues along with leash training. We didn’t think it would be possible to train them at this age! Highly recommend Bark Busters!
Jen F.
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We addressed all of her concerns and troubles. We highly recommend to anyone! She now doesnt pull on leash and is understadning her place.
Miranda
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