3 min read
5 Reasons Why Boston Terriers are the Best!
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Written by Adam Lee-Smith

Veterinary reviewed by:

Published: 01/24/2023, edited: 02/16/2023

Overview
Boston Terriers are among the most popular terrier breeds, and it's easy to see why. Bursting with loyalty, love, and humor, Boston Terriers have been stealing hearts across the US for over a century.
To celebrate National Boston Terrier Day on February 19th, we've rounded up 5 reasons why we think Boston Terriers are the best, plus a few myths and fun facts about the breed!

5 reasons to love Boston Terriers
From their all-American pedigree to their boisterous personalities, here are 5 reasons why we love Boston Terriers.

They're an all-American breed
Boston Terriers originate from (you guessed it!) Boston, MA, making them one of the only dog breeds to come from the US. They're also an old dog breed — Boston Terriers first appeared around 1875 and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1893.
Nicknamed the "American Gentleman" due to their black-and-white tuxedo coloration, Boston Terriers were America's first companion dog breed. They're also the state dog of Massachusetts.

They're endlessly entertaining
Boston Terriers might be small in stature, but they make up for it with their bubbly personalities. Whether they're prancing around the dog park or reacting to a new experience, your Boston Terrier will have you giggling. Their big eyes and ears, combined with their high energy and hilarious behavior, make for an entertaining fur-baby. 
They make great family pets
Boston Terriers love human affection and get on well with children, making them an ideal addition to any growing family. They have a high prey drive, but as long as they're introduced early, they can get alog well with cats and even rabbits. Plus, their high intelligence and easygoing nature make them suitable for first-time pet parents. 

They're a small breed that loves to stay active
Look no further than a Boston Terrier if you're looking for a small dog to take on outdoor adventures. Boston Terriers are relatively high-energy and require at least an hour of daily exercise. Despite weighing a maximum of 25 pounds, Boston Terriers love to get out and explore the world — ideal if you're big on hiking but short on space at home.

They're low maintenance
Boston Terriers are one of the lowest-maintenance terrier breeds. They have short coats, meaning they don't need to visit the groomers. You'll only need to brush your Boston Terrier around once a week. 
Worried about your pup upsetting your neighbors? Boston Terriers are unusually quiet dogs, with a low woof instead of a noisy bark. They're not as stubborn as many terrier breeds — their high intelligence and loyalty make them easy to train. 
Boston Terrier on hind legs staring out window
Myths about Boston Terriers
Time to bust some common myths about this beloved breed!
Myth #1: Boston Terriers thrive indoors and outdoors
Boston Terriers aren't built for outdoor living. Their short coats and short muzzles mean they don't handle extreme temperatures well, and they often struggle to breathe if left out in the heat. 
Myth #2: Boston Terriers aren't very protective
As they're small and quiet, many people think Boston Terriers aren't protective. However, they're incredibly loyal and become very attached to their pet parents. Socialization from puppyhood is essential; otherwise, they may bark or become aggressive toward strangers. 
Myth #3: Boston Terriers don't live as long as other breeds
Boston Terriers are a brachycephalic breed, and they're prone to health problems like patellar luxation. Due to these health issues, many people believe Boston Terriers have a short lifespan. But, if cared for properly, Boston Terriers live on average for 11 to 13 years — as long as German Shepherds, Huskies, and Beagles.

Fun facts about Boston Terriers
  • Bruschi the Boston Terrier holds the Guinness World Record for the dog with the largest eyes. This 4-year-old Boston Terrier's eyes are 1.1 inches (28 millimeters) in diameter!
  • Boston Terriers are becoming increasingly popular in the US. They're the 21st most popular breed in the US as of 2021, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
  • A Boston Terrier served in World War I. Sergeant Stubby was the unofficial mascot of the 102nd Infantry Regiment, taking part in 4 offensives and 17 battles. Read more about Sergeant Stubby in our guide to famous K9 military heroes!
  • Boston Terriers are presidential pups! Gerald Ford had two Boston Terriers named Fleck and Spot, while Warren G. Harding had a Boston Terrier called Hub. Learn more about Capitol canines in our guide to famous presidential dogs in US history.
  • Boston Terriers are Hollywood stars, having featured in films like Valentine's Day, Feast, and Hotel for Dogs.

Do you have an adorable Boston Terrier in your fur-family? We'd love to meet them! Share your snaps in the comments, or on Instagram @wag!


Comments (8)
Andrew M
10/27/2024
My dog BENI / Oscar is 16! here is a photo.

James S
09/18/2024
Here's our new baby girl we just got a few weeks ago. Meet Penelope! AKA- Penny
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Ida Fortenberry
07/23/2024
I have a 22month old" red&white" Boston terrier. He had beautiful hazel green eyes' his markings are" extremely beautiful

Julie
02/18/2024
Bostons are the best. My kids have grown into 6 foot tall men but my Boston is like having a forever baby that always wants to play or cuddle.
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Tshepo
12/23/2023
I present to you Ace 😃 Boston Terriers are the lovely dogs to keep. I have a puppy who keeps the smiles and love for my little girl. Ohhhhhhh but the farts 😅 .
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Ann McEnery
12/04/2023
Nora is our 7th Boston Terrier in 45 years of marriage. She's our first puppy, as the previous 6 were adopted or rescued. The breed has been in our family since the 1930s. Nora lets me know when I've spent too much time at my computer.
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Dennis k Chun
03/06/2023
Would like you to meet Oliver and Standley. These two will keep you laughing and entertain all day
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Sarwar Abdullah
01/25/2023
Boston Terriers are a great breed to consider if you're looking for a loving, low-maintenance, and easy-to-train companion for your family.They are known for their playful and loving personalities, and intelligence.https://dogregion.com/

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