The Boston is among a small group of dogs who were "made in America". Originally it was bred from crosses between the bulldog and the terrier, and careful selection has produced a dog that is consistently marked and very true to type. He has distinctive white markings on a background of black, seal or brindle. Ears are upright and may be cropped or natural. Backskull is flat, muzzle is short with a well defined stop. His nose is of the braccocephalic type and he can be heard to snore at night. Most dogs with this type of nose are not highly athletic in nature since they do not have the breathing room required to be highly active, especially in the heat.

Also most dogs of this type tend to have some problems with natural birth because of the large head, so he is not used a great deal in the "puppy mills" as a breeding dog. therefore his numbers are small in comparison to other small breeds, (he is not "over-bred") and this has helped to protect the breed from too many health problems. The eyes are somewhat large and round and protruding. Because of this he requires a daily eye inspection as he may be susceptible to eye injury. Other than a history of skin problems there do not seem to be any other notable health concerns. His movement should be free and easy, never lumbering in gait.

The Boston is a delight to own and train. He is generally easy to housebreak. If brought up with children he is tractable and gentle in nature. He was bred as a companion dog and despite his title is a member of the non-sporting Group, not truly a "terrier" in nature or habit. He is adaptable to a small apartment and does not need an inordinate amount of exercise. Usually he is under 25 pounds in weight. Bostons are generally easy going and not prone to pick a fight.

He is a popular figure in the show ring. Coat care is minimal, all he needs is a quick wipe down. He is not heavily used as an agility dog since his bulldog background can lead to breathing problems if overly exercised. He does however make a fine therapy dog because of his smaller size and winning personality, especially because he can be so easily trained to do tricks and was specifically bred as a companion dog. His first love is to be with people. He was bred first and foremost as a pet and because of his distinctive markings became popular as a show dog and a dog to "show off"; it is considered stylish to own a Boston.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Animals