Helpful Info
There’s so much information about Boston Terriers out on the Internet. If you do a Google search, you’ll find more information that you’d ever be able to read; however, please be aware that much of the information is NOT TRUE or is incorrect.
Rare Bostons
For example, there is no such thing as a “rare” colored Boston. There are colors that are approved by the Boston Terrier Standard and then there are colors that are NOT approved. Nothing more and nothing less. Those who breed primarily for the “rare” colors are nothing more than backyard breeders (aka ByBs) or puppymills that are trying to fool you into paying higher prices, so BUYER BEWARE!!!
Toy Bostons
The same is true for those who say they have miniature or toy Boston Terriers. Again, there are no such things. Bostons that fall within the Standard are grouped into three categories (or classes at dog shows): Under 15 lbs., 15 to under 20 lbs, and 20 – 25 lbs. If the Boston is larger than 25 lbs, they are not “special”, they are just simply “out of standard” and the same is true of Bostons of less than about 12 lbs (though there is no defined lower weight limit at this time). Again, if you find a breeder who specializes in these pocket pets, you will likely find yourself dealing with a ByB or puppymill, so please be very careful.
Bostons – in general
Bostons are GREAT dogs! They are very versatile, require little grooming, and are smart little dogs. Bostons excel in agility, obedience, rally, conformation, and believe it or not, they even do well in herding. Outside AKC events, Bostons make wonderful companions for the young and the young-at-heart. They love kids, grandparents, and tend to get along well with other pets. Bostons do well in pet therapy work and have also been known to be service dogs for the deaf.
Bostons can have sensitive tummies and their owners are often the victims of “gas attacks”…yes, it’s true, Bostons are known for their ability to “clear a room” and then looking around to see where everyone went. But their personalities, sweetness, and antics more than make up for this minor little fault.
Although Bostons are fabulous, they are still not for everyone. They are NOT meant to be primarily outside pets. While they love to run and play just like any playful dog, they cannot withstand high or low temperatures, so really need to be indoor family members.
Before adding a Boston to your family, please be sure to do plenty of research and find out as much as you can about the breed to make sure it’s the right fit for you and your family.
Boston Terrier Health
Bostons are pretty sturdy little dogs. In fact, some people refer to them as “a big dog in a little dog body” and that’s a fairly accurate state; however, just like every other breed, there are some genetic issues that seem to be prevalent in the breed. Slipping kneecaps (luxating patellae), several eye diseases including cataracts, and deafness are considered the top three health issues by the Boston Terrier Club of America. Other issues may include hemivertebrae, hip dysplasia, and trachea issues.
Reputable breeders will screen their dogs for at least the top three issues by having a patella exam, CERF test, and BAER test to ensure their dogs are not affected with any of those issues. There is a lot of information about these problems and a Google search will keep you reading for days!
-Jamey Spowart
