Bringing a dog into your life isn’t an easy decision, and certainly not one that can be made overnight. Whether you’re an experienced or first-time dog owner, choosing the right dog for your lifestyle takes careful consideration. With so many breeds of different sizes and temperaments to consider, beginning the research process can be overwhelming.
If you’re someone living in a city seeking a small, lively companion, consider the Boston Terrier.
The Boston Terrier’s Temperament
Nicknamed “The American Gentleman,” Boston Terriers are known to be a friendly breed with excellent manners. A member of the Non-Sporting Group, these alert, joyful dogs are natural comedians and can provide their owners with endless entertainment. Bostons are eager to please their owners, and quickly ingratiate themselves into a family dynamic. They’re highly sociable and tend to be open with children, unfamiliar faces, and other dogs.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
Boston Terriers are short-tailed little dogs that weigh no more than 25 pounds. Sporting a stylish “tuxedo,” these dapper pups don a white and either black, brindle, or seal (dark brown) coat. Bostons’ heads are square with a short muzzle, and large, round eyes that sparkle with curiosity. Their compact bodies move with a jaunt. Bostons are happy to prance around a city or more suburban towns with their owners.
Bostons’ coats are fine and sleek, and shed minimally. Weekly brushing will help to remove loose hair. Regular brushing sessions also promote new hair growth and distribute skin oils to keep their coats looking healthy. Bostons only require occasional bathing, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. Allowing a Boston’s nails to grow too long will cause them issues and pain when walking or running.
How Much Training Do Boston Terriers Need?
Like all breeds, early socialization and puppy training courses are strongly recommended for Boston Terriers. Bostons are eager to please their owners, making them generally easier to train. Treats are a good incentive in motivating a Boston Terrier during training. Being a more sensitive breed, Bostons don’t respond well to harsh training methods. Correcting mistakes gently and offering plenty of love and praise will ensure that training is pleasant for both the owner and a Boston. This breed doesn’t fare well when left alone for extended periods of time. A Boston will be happiest with folks with enough time and attention to devote to them.
While exercise needs vary from dog to dog, an active, engaging lifestyle will help ensure a Boston Terrier is on their best behavior. A couple brisk walks or dedicated time to run and play every day will help keep a Boston happy. Due to their varying exercise needs and their small size, a Boston Terrier is a good choice for city dwellers.
Are Boston Terriers Good for Families?
Boston Terriers are a well-mannered, friendly breed, making them a good choice for families. Especially with proper training and socialization, a Boston can be very happy with a variety of family styles. They do well with children who know how to be gentle with animals. Bostons are a patient breed, and form strong bonds with their loved ones due to their sensitive nature.
How Social Are Boston Terriers?
A well-adjusted and properly socialized Boston Terrier is a very social dog. They form strong connections with family members and can get along well with other dogs. They also tend to be open with strangers. Bostons are a happy-go-lucky breed, eager to make friends and get love wherever they can find it.