For a smaller sized dog that is very low maintenance but has an outstanding personality look no further than the Boston Terrier. This iconic black and white, short haired dog has been a favorite housedog for years, and with very good reason. They are excellent in any type of living situation and highly adaptable to active or quieter families and owners. Because they are so respected, they were named the state dog of Massachusetts!
The Boston Terrier, which is sometimes affectionately known as the Boston Bull, will weigh in at less than 25 pounds when full grown and will be about 17 inches at the shoulder. Males and females are typically similar in size although females may be slightly more feminine looking but never delicate or slight. The dogs are compact and muscular, looking very much like a miniature version of a Bulldog. They have the typical wide head and short muzzle of all bulldog breeds but are less prone to respiratory problems than many of the bulldog-like breeds. Despite their name, they are not terriers at all! The American Kennel Club recognizes them as a non-sporting breed.
These dogs are generally very healthy but their slightly protruding eyes are prone to injury and a variety of different minor and fairly major issues. One common problem is dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which is treatable using artificial tears and treatment with immunosuppressive drugs. Working with your vet to respond quickly to any eye conditions is a simple way to ensure eye health for your Boston Terrier.
The modern Boston Terrier is a calm, lovable, loyal and friendly companion dog – they are nicknamed the American Gentleman. They are very easy to train even though they can be a bit independent at times. They can adapt to all types of living conditions and are great apartment dogs provided they have routine exercise and outdoor time. They are wonderful with children, excellent with new people and animals and are generally overall friendly canines. Like any dog early and frequent socialization with new people and animals helps to reinforce this behavior.
The short coat, which can be black and white, brindle and white, brown and white or a seal color, requires minimal grooming. These dogs do shed an average amount and they are not a non-shedding dog breed. Highly intelligent and very much a needing to be a central part of the family these personality plus dogs are fun loving and very easy to train. They can be great at agility work, obedience training as well as quick to learn a variety of different human words. They have an endearing way of watching their owners and cocking their heads from side to side as if to try to understand just what is going on.