ABOUT KATBIRD BOSTONS ABOUT KATBIRD BOSTONS ABOUT ME ABOUT ME ABOUT BOSTON TERRIERS ABOUT BOSTON TERRIERS FACILITIES FACILITIES WHAT IS A BREEDER? WHAT IS A BREEDER? BUYING vs. ADOPTING BUYING vs. ADOPTING OUR DOGS OUR DOGS VIDEO GALLERY VIDEO GALLERY PUPPIES PUPPIES ADULT DOGS FOR ADOPTION ADULT DOGS FOR ADOPTION LINKS LINKS EMAIL EMAIL
ABOUT BOSTON TERRIERS
The Boston Terrier is an American original, developed from the Bulldog and extinct English White Terrier in the Boston area of Massachusetts during the 1800’s. Originally called “Round Heads” or “Bull Terriers”, the name was eventually changed to Boston Terrier prior to AKC recognition in 1893. Although the breeds used in development of the Boston Terrier include dogs used in pit fighting , the larger Boston Terriers quickly became a favorite of country gentlemen as an estate dog, while the smaller versions were popular as parlor pets for the ladies. To this day there is variation in the size of the breed, even within the same litter. While the AKC Standard does not specify a minimum size, there are three weight divisions for the show ring: Under 15 pounds; 15 pounds and under 20 pounds; 20 pounds and not to exceed 25 pounds. There is no such thing as a “miniature” or “toy” Boston Terrier, although some Bostons weigh less than 10 pounds when grown. Most breeders of show dogs prefer the dogs to be in the 12-18 pound range. While generally considered a fine family dog, keep these things in mind when deciding whether to add a Boston Terrier to your household: • They can be wonderful with children-IF the children are taught proper treatment of the dog. Boston Terriers are very sensitive-usually a harsh word is all that is needed to correct them, and the loud sounds and abrupt actions of human toddlers can frighten young puppies. Either wait until your children are past toddler age, or find an older puppy or dog that has been socialized with children. NEVER leave young children alone with a puppy. I shouldn’t have to explain why. • These are absolutely indoor dogs. They have no undercoat for protection from the weather. While they will enjoy outdoor activities with you, be mindful of the fact that their short muzzles do not allow them to cool the air as effectively, so reduce playtime in hot weather. Also their naturally upright ears can get frostbite in frigid temperatures. They can also get “foot freeze” from walking in snow, which is a temporary but painful condition-your Boston may try to walk on as few feet as possible! The pain will go away as soon as your dog returns to the warmth of indoors. • Although Boston Terriers have been bred soley as companions since the 19th century, they still display terrier and bulldog characteristics. They have a strong prey drive, and want to chase rabibits, squirrels, cats and other dogs. In their excitement they often approach strange dogs or people by standing on their back legs and waving their front feet at the newcomer, a behavior also seen in Boxers. This can be concerning to strange dogs, so be aware of this. And if another dog responds aggressively, it is likely that your Boston will remember the fighting days of its ancestors and respond in kind. • BOTTOM LINE: Basic obedience training is essential to teach these highly intelligent dogs impulse control and proper socialization is a must.
ABOUT BOSTON TERRIERS ABOUT BOSTON TERRIERS