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Boston Terrier Day

February 15, 2021

Do you have a Boston Terrier? If so, there’s a pretty special holiday coming up. Boston Terrier Day is February 19th! This lovable pup, which is also the Massachusetts State Dog, is a very popular pet, and with good reason. A local vet discusses this adorable breed below.

History

The Boston Terrier dates back to 1875, to a pooch named Hooper’s Judge (or Judge, for short) a very good boy who was of the bull and terrier breed. Judge was bred with a white bulldog named Gyp, who provided her offspring with the blocky head that’s now characteristic of the breed. Though the Boston Terrier was originally a pit fighting dog, it didn’t take long for them to find their way into people’s homes and hearts. They’re now ranked as the 21st most popular breed in the AKC registry. Speaking of the AKC, they added the breed in 1893. The Boston Terrier was the first US breed to officially be listed. Another fun fact about this smart dog? Fido is not actually a terrier, at least officially. Instead, they are in the non-sporting group.

Lifestyle

Boston Terriers are not just cute: they are happy, friendly, lovable, and fiercely devoted. They are quite small, which makes them a great match for people who live in apartments or small homes. They’re also pretty quiet, which is another reason they’re good for urbanites. These dogs are also easily trainable. Boston Terriers can be found in agility and strength contests, and sometimes work as therapy dogs. They also excel at tracking and dock diving. And, as you may know, they are the official mascot for Boston University and Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC.

Exercise

Fido does need some activity to stay healthy. However, you’ll have to take care not to overexert your furry friend! Because these pooches have such short muzzles, they can get out of breath very easily. They also don’t do well with either extreme heat or extreme cold.

Grooming

One great thing about Boston Terriers is that they really don’t need a lot of grooming. Just brush Fido once a week, and bathe him regularly. As with any other dog, you’ll also need to keep up with his dental care and peticures.

Eyes

One of the Boston Terrier’s most prominent features are their eyes. Those cute bug eyes can be super expressive! In fact, a Boston Terrier named Bruschi is listed in the Guinness Book Of World Records for having the largest eyes. Boston Terriers sometimes get corneal ulcers and can suffer eye injuries from sand, dust, or debris. You’ll also need to be careful to remove potential hazards, such as thorny plants, that are at Fido’s eye level.

Our Advice on Boston Terrier Day in 2024

Are Boston Terriers true terriers?

No, Boston Terriers are not true terriers. Despite their name, they belong to the non-sporting group. The breed originated from a cross between a bulldog and a white terrier, but they were not officially classified as terriers by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Instead, they are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. While they share some characteristics with terriers, such as being small and lively, they have their own unique traits that set them apart.

How easy are Boston Terriers to groom?

Boston Terriers are relatively easy to groom. A weekly brushing is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. Regular bathing is also recommended to maintain their hygiene. Additionally, it’s important to attend to their dental care and trim their nails regularly. Despite their short coat, they do shed, so regular grooming helps minimize loose hair around the home. Overall, with a consistent grooming routine, Boston Terriers can stay clean and healthy with minimal effort.

Besides eye problems, what other health conditions are Boston Terriers prone to?

Boston Terriers are prone to a few health conditions aside from eye problems. They may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome due to their short snouts, leading to breathing difficulties. Additionally, they are susceptible to skin issues like allergies and dermatitis. Some may develop heart murmurs or joint problems such as patellar luxation. It’s important for owners to be aware of these potential health concerns and to provide regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their Boston Terrier’s overall health and well-being.

While generally friendly, do Boston Terriers have any potential behavioral quirks?

Boston Terriers are generally friendly and lovable companions, but they do have some potential behavioral quirks to be aware of. They can be quite stubborn at times, which may make training a bit challenging. Additionally, they may exhibit territorial behavior, especially around their food or toys. Some Boston Terriers may also display excessive barking, particularly if they are not properly socialized or if they become anxious. However, with proper training, socialization, and positive reinforcement techniques, these behavioral quirks can often be managed effectively, allowing Boston Terriers to thrive as delightful family pets.

What is the average lifespan of a Boston Terrier?

The average lifespan of a Boston Terrier typically ranges between 11 to 15 years. However, with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, some Boston Terriers may live even longer, reaching their late teens or early twenties. It’s important to provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, preventive healthcare, and attention to their specific health needs to help ensure they live a long and healthy life. Additionally, early detection and management of any potential health issues can contribute to extending their lifespan and overall well-being.

As your veterinary clinic in Cavan Monaghan, ON, we’re here to help. Call us anytime!