Boston Terrier: The American Gentleman

Affectionately nicknamed “The American Gentleman,” Boston Terriers are known for their dapper black-and-white tuxedo coats, charming personalities, and friendly playfulness. They never meet a stranger who doesn’t end up a friend, or a dog that rattles their Napoleon complex. Boston Terriers may be small, but they bring rambunctious, big-dog energy to any occasion—before crashing out and snoring on the couch, of course.

At Happy Paws, we’re dedicated to helping all dogs, from purebreds to certified mutts, live their happiest, healthiest lives. We’ve designed our dog supplements to target a range of trouble spots in your dog’s health—many of which include common issues for a Boston Terrier. 

In this article, we’ll explore the history of this short-nosed breed, provide some information and advice on how to care for them, and help you decide which supplements are best for your lively, little friend, the Boston Terrier. 

Quick Facts

Origin: United States

Size: Small

Breed Group: Non-sporting 

Lifespan: 11–13 years

Coat: Short hair—minimal grooming recommended

Temperament: Intelligent, lively, loyal & goofy

Exercise Needs: Like all dogs, Boston Terriers need exercise and play to maintain a healthy weight. But these dogs are brachycephalic, meaning they have a smooshed face and sinuses, so exhaustive exercising can often lead to breathing troubles. It’s always best to keep exercise to a minimum and at the coolest times of the day. 

Training: Most dogs latch onto obedience training quickly, and the Boston Terrier is no different. These small puppers love to show off their big brains by learning and following commands, especially when tasty treats are in play.

Dog Health: Because of their small stature and smooshed snouts, Boston Terriers are susceptible to unique health problems, like respiratory complications, joint pains, and digestive woes. We’ll discuss how to address each below.

Happy Paws for Boston Terriers

Enrich your Boston Terrier’s health with high-quality, tasty supplements like these!

In-Depth Look at These Popular Supplements

With their small frame and full-of-life personality, the Boston Terrier can be a perfect addition to your family, or single pet-parent household. This loyal breed quickly becomes a best friend who begs for attention—and tasty, healthy treats. 

Our high-quality, tail-waggin’ dog supplements use an array of all-natural, organic ingredients to enrich your dog’s physical and mental health, while satisfying their taste buds. Here are a few dog supplements to help you care for your Boston Terrier.

Skin & Coat Dog Chews: Our Skin & Coat Dog Chews help keep the sheen in your Boston Terrier’s iconic tuxedo look. These vegan, chicken-flavored soft chews use a blend of skin-supporting ingredients, like biotin and coconut oil, to restore dermal health and replenish your dog’s coat.

Dental Dog Chews: Like all dogs, but most notably smaller dogs, Boston Terriers are prone to smelly, unpleasant dog breath. Our Dental Dog Chews combine the refreshing aroma of spearmint with an enzyme blend to neutralize dental bacteria and curb stinky breath. 

10-in-1 Multivitamin Dog Chews: Our 10-in-1 Multivitamin Dog Chews use multiple essential nutrients to strengthen your dog’s daily health and give them a well-rounded supplement. One vegan, lamb-flavored dog treat introduces ten critical nutrients to keep your dog healthy, happy, and active. 

Hip & Joint Dog Chews: Soothe the symptoms of joint dysplasia with our Hip & Joint Dog Chews! Packed with a blend of joint-friendly ingredients, this dog supplement helps reduce inflammation and support joint health, thanks to compounds like glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid.

Probiotic Dog Chews: Made with powerful antioxidants, probiotics, and superfoods, our Probiotic Dog Chews help strengthen your dog’s digestive system, while supporting their gut and bowel health. 

Common Boston Terrier Health Concerns

Compared to other smaller dog breeds, the Boston Terrier is susceptible to unique health conditions like these:

Patellar Luxation: Patellar luxation occurs when a dog’s kneecap slips out of the joint. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help manage the condition, while joint-friendly supplements can help, too. If you believe your dog has patellar luxation, it’s best to speak with your veterinarian about first steps.

Digestive Issues: Digestive problems can develop in any dog at any age. Symptoms can include diarrhea, bloating, gas, low appetite, lethargy, and more. The issue can stem from the dog’s diet, lifestyle, or genetics. 

Brachycephalic Syndrome: The Boston Terrier’s most recognizable feature is its smooshed face, known as Brachycephalic Syndrome. In young and old Boston Terriers, Brachycephalic Syndrome can cause breathing problems during long periods of exercise. So, it’s always important to moderate exercise and playtime, preferably indoors during warm months.

About Boston Terriers

A relative of the English Bulldog, the spirited, little Boston Terrier has lost most of its ties to the classic tough dog; these little pups are more lovers than fighters—for the most part. That little bulldog attitude can still rear its head when duty calls. 

Initially, the Boston Terrier found its place in high society. It was the go-to breed for many silver-screen actresses—which makes sense. Its black-and-white tuxedo coat keeps the Boston Terries appear dressed for every occasion. Today, the Boston Terrier is still one of the most popular breeds in the country, blessing families with a little ball of friendliness and affection. Its short, compact frame does well in apartments or starter homes, while its mild temperament pairs well with a laid-back environment. 

Their Temperament

Small dogs are known for their vibrant personalities and steadfast confidence. And Boston Terriers are no different. These little dogs can turn into little troublemakers without the proper training. As they age, Boston Terriers seem to settle into the rhythm of daily life. Their easygoing nature and compact size let you take them on errands, road trips, and short strolls around the neighborhood. Their little-man confidence will lead them to new friends easily, while their charming personality will instantly win over hearts. With the right training, the Boston Terrier can make an exceptional family dog—and your new best friend. 

How to Care for a Boston Terrier

Compared to other breeds, the Boston Terrier is relatively easy to train, especially for new-time dog owners. They learn fast and don’t require much grooming. But there are a few tips to help keep your Boston Terrier happy, healthy, and lively, from their puppy years and well into their golden years.

Socialization

A Boston Terrier is at their best when they have a lively friend group. This group of friends can include people, pets, and other dogs. But it’s important to socialize your Boston Terrier early in life, just to get them acclimated to new faces. With the right introductions, your Boston Terrier can make all kinds of new, interesting friends. 

Mild Exercise

Boston Terriers are brachycephalic dogs, meaning they have a short snout and smooshed sinuses. This condition disrupts the dog’s anatomy and can make heavy breathing difficult, resulting in a number of possible complications. So, while it is essential to exercise a Boston Terrier, do so sparingly and only at cool times of day.

Obedience Training

The Boston Terrier is pretty intelligent, so obedience training can help them show off that big brain (in a little body). Because exercise should be kept to a minimum, obedience training can help keep your Boston Terrier sharp and engaged throughout the day. Plus, a Boston Terrier doing a couple tricks might be the cutest thing in the world. 

Happy Paws: High-Quality Dog Supplements 

Keeping your dog happy, healthy, and active shouldn’t feel like a full-time job. At Happy Paws, we’ve designed our dog treats with the best ingredients and flavors possible (our dogs definitely approve!). We’ve made sure these treats are certified organic, non-GMO, and third-party tested for purity, letting you spoil your dog easily with healthy, tasty dog treats. 

FAQ

Is a Boston Terrier a good house dog?

Boston Terriers can make excellent house dogs, with the proper training. It’s important to start obedience training early on, especially with small dogs. This early start will help your dog understand how to behave appropriately around children and elderly family members or friends.

Are Boston Terriers good left alone?

Boston Terriers see their owners as companions, so they may be a little scared the first time you leave them home alone. But with the proper training, you can help settle this separation anxiety and let your Boston Terrier enjoy their solo stay in the castle. 

Do Boston Terriers shed a lot?

Boston Terriers have short, wiry hair that sheds year-round. It isn’t a ton of hair, but it still shows up on the couch, rug, and sweaters. 

How do you give a Boston Terrier health supplements?

You can give your dog a Happy Paws health supplement in several ways. First, we’ve designed these supplements as dog treats, so you can give them to your pupper as a reward for good behavior. Or, you can add it to your dog’s kibble; they make a pretty tasty topper, too.