The Boston Terrier is a small but sturdy American breed. Also known as the “American Gentleman” for his tuxedo coat and polite demeanor, this intelligent dog was bred to be a companion. In 1870, in Boston, William O’Brien sold a dog (imported from England), who was a cross between a white English Terrier and a Bulldog, to Robert C. Hopper. “Hopper’s Judge,” as he was called, was bred with “Burnett’s Gyp,” owned by Edward Burnett of Southboro, MA. The modern Boston Terrier is descended from these two dogs. Originally called “Round Heads,” or “Bull Terriers,” the name was changed in 1891 when the Boston Terrier Club of America was formed.
Bostons are sweet, friendly, and love to be with their people. They are highly intelligent, so Bostons are easily trained. While they are generally active and playful, as a rule they don’t need as much exercise as the more outdoorsy breeds (such as the Border Collie). This makes them excellent pets for city dwellers. They can be goofy, and more than anything, want to please the ones they love.
Here we present some of our favorite submissions from the AKC Family Dog Photo Contest, celebrating the Boston Terrier’s soulful expressions and that adorable head tilt.
Allisa Thiemke/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Jill Richard/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Angela Frady/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Claire Burke/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Adrienne Ricci/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Connie Davison/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Janet Newburg/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Jenny Sanchez/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Cherie Young/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Andrea Strange/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Jeff Hebert/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Cindy Frost/AKC Family Dog Photo Contest
Like Pugs, Boston Terriers are brachycephalic breeds, so extra care needs to be taken during extreme heat.
Do you have a lovable Boston Terrier? Send us a pic—we’d love to see it!
