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Boston Terrier

HEIGHT
15-17 inches
WEIGHT
12-25 pounds
LIFE SPAN
11-15 years
Information

Nicknamed “The American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is a lively, affectionate small dog breed developed in the United States in the late 1800s. Originally bred from Bulldogs and terriers, Boston Terriers are known for their short muzzle, square build, and signature tuxedo-style markings.

This breed is bright, sociable, and eager to please — making it a great companion for individuals, couples, or families. Their small size, minimal grooming needs, and cheerful demeanor make them especially well-suited for apartment living.

While not overly demanding, Boston Terriers do enjoy daily walks and play sessions. They’re intelligent and relatively easy to train, but can sometimes show a stubborn streak — always with charm and a tail wiggle

Quick facts
  • Origin: United States

  • Breed Group: Non-Sporting

  • Lifespan: 11–15 years

  • Size: 15–17 inches tall, 12–25 pounds

  • Coat Type: Short, smooth, easy to maintain

  • Temperament: Friendly, smart, lively, affectionate

  • Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks and light play

  • Training Needs: Eager to learn, sometimes a bit stubborn

  • Grooming Needs: Low – minimal brushing and maintenance

  • Health: May be prone to brachycephalic syndrome, eye issues, allergies

Overview

Boston Terriers are small dogs with big personalities. They're charming, silly, and deeply devoted to their people. Known for their expressive eyes and clownish nature, Bostons can brighten any home with their joy and companionship.

They adapt well to many living situations and tend to get along with children and other pets. Though they can be stubborn at times, their eagerness to please makes them highly trainable with positive reinforcement.

With minimal grooming needs and a natural friendliness, the Boston Terrier is a low-maintenance but high-reward companion for almost any household.

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Boston Terrier FAQs
How much does a Boston Terrier cost in Ireland?
In Ireland, a purebred Boston Terrier puppy typically costs between €1,000 and €1,400, depending on the breeder, pedigree, and location.
Are Boston Terriers good family dogs?
Yes — Boston Terriers are excellent family pets. They are affectionate, sociable, and great with children and other pets. Their gentle and cheerful nature makes them ideal companions for family life.
Do Boston Terriers bark a lot?
Boston Terriers are moderate barkers. They tend to bark to alert their owners or express excitement but are not known to be overly noisy. Training helps keep barking under control.
Are Boston Terriers easy to train?
Yes — Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which makes training straightforward. However, they may be a little stubborn at times, so patience and positive reinforcement work best.
Do Boston Terriers have health problems?
Because of their short noses (brachycephalic structure), Boston Terriers can sometimes experience mild breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather. Regular vet check-ups and avoiding overexertion help manage these issues.
What to expect

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more.

Health
Bostons are generally healthy, but their flat faces make them prone to breathing issues (brachycephalic syndrome). Also watch for eye problems and food sensitivities.
Grooming
Very low maintenance. Weekly brushing keeps their short coat healthy. Clean facial folds and ears regularly. Monitor tear staining and clip nails as needed.
Exercise
Moderate energy level. Daily short walks and play sessions are ideal. Avoid strenuous activity in hot or humid weather due to breathing sensitivity.
Training
Smart and usually cooperative. Positive training works well. Keep sessions fun and engaging. Socialization from a young age helps prevent shyness.
Nutrition
Feed a small-breed, high-quality diet. Monitor portions to avoid weight gain. Bostons can be prone to gassiness and food allergies — keep diet consistent.

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