Boston Terrier FAQ's

What personality will my Boston have?

Typically Bostons are happy, fun-loving dogs. However, all dogs are unique. My puppies' personalities have ranged from rowdy and rambunctious to reserved and laid back.

Do Bostons do well with families and other pets?

Yes, these dogs generally do well with children of all ages and other pets when introduced and socialized properly. As with all dogs, young children should be taught how to interact with them gently and monitored.

How much exercise does my Boston need?

Bostons need a moderate amount of exercise each day. A walk, run, or playing fetch with a ball is usually sufficient. Bostons are also very smart dogs and do well with mental stimulation, whether that comes from puzzle toys or enrolling them in a class such as fly ball, nose work, advanced obedience, or agility.

Are Bostons easy to train?

Bostons are very clever and quick to pick up on training. When training your puppy, find a small (safe) treat that they love and use lots of positive reinforcement. Some Bostons aren't as food-driven and may respond well to a simple change in your demeanor (lots of excitement, smiling, and "Yay!" or "Yes!"). Find what works best for reinforcing your puppy's good behaviors and you will have a well-trained best friend in no time!

Do Bostons do well as apartment dogs?

Bostons do well as apartment dogs as long as they get adequate exercise each day! These dogs are also a great fit for older owners, as they are happy to cuddle and snooze on the couch all day.

What should I feed my Boston?

I feed all of my dogs a low-sugar, grain-free diet (Merrick, Instinct, etc.) and suggest this for others as well. While these brands can be more expensive, they generally contain a higher concentration of meat-based products and the difference in your pup will be noticeable.
The claims that a grain-free diet are linked to heart disease have been proven to be false. Every person should do their own research and feed their dog a food that gives them the best quality of life possible. Not every Boston will react to foods in the same way and it can take some trial and error before you find the right food for your four-legged friend.

What toys are best for my Boston?

Bostons are notorious chewers so keeping lots of bones and chew toys around will ensure that this does not turn into the bad habit of chewing your shoes, walls, etc. Our suggestions: Nyla-bones, deer/elk antlers (real or fake), Dogwood stick bones. (Note: NEVER feed rawhides to your dog)
Bostons also typically love to destuff a stuffed toy. If you do give them stuffies, please monitor them closely so they are not ingesting the fluff.

Do you dock tails?

No, as a good friend told me, "Bostons are born with the tail that God gives them."

What colors do Bostons come in?

Bostons can come in all colors: black, brindle, seal, blue, chocolate, red, apricot, and more.

How big will my Boston get?

Bostons usually grow to be anywhere from 12-30 pounds. The final weight of your puppy will depend on the weights of their parents.

I have allergies, can I still have a Boston?

Bostons are considered to be minimally shedding, as they do not grow a thicker coat in the winter, instead gently shedding hair all year. This minimal shedding reduces makes them a fine choice for those with lower level pet allergies.

How do Bostons do in the heat?

Due to their shortened noses, Bostons have reduced space in their nasal cavity and can be quicker to overheat in high temperatures, especially when partaking in physical activities like walks or hiking. Make sure you always have water on hand in the summer and monitor them frequently in these instances.
It is not recommended that you keep your Boston outside when you are gone in the summer if you experience high temperatures in your area. If you must, please ensure they have access to plenty of water and shade. Keeping a shallow kiddie pool filled with 1-2 inches of water is also a great way to allow your four-legged friends to cool off their paws and bellies.

How do Bostons do in the cold?

Due to their lack of a winter coat, Bostons tend to get colder faster than other dog breeds in low temperatures. Some Bostons will naturally have thicker coats than others so their tolerance of the cold will vary.
It is not recommended that you keep your Boston outside when you are gone in the winter if you experience low temperatures in your area. If you must, it is recommended that they have access to a warm shelter. Hanging a heat lamp a few feet above the ground in their enclosure (out of their reach) can allow them a way to keep warm.