by Nancy Nashed

Created on: February 11, 2007   Last Updated: April 09, 2009

If you are looking for just the right dog to bring into your life, you may have to look no further than the Boston Terrier. Depending on your preferences and lifestyle, here are some attributes about Boston Terriers that may entice you to bring home this breed as your family's new pet.

A Boston is a short-haired, mix of terrier and french bulldog. Most are black with white markings, or sometimes brindle, which is a brown gray streaking within the coat. Boston Terriers were, of course, first bred in the Boston area and are the oldest official American breed. The size of a Boston is 20-25 pounds. Although some may consider this a small sized dog, Bostons have incredible jaw power and could do well in protecting you if need be. This can be taken into account if you consider a pet who could provide protection when taking a stroll in the evening, or when you want a decent bark to ward off potential intruders around your home. 20 - 25 pounds is also small enough to allow you to pick these guys up easily. This comes in handy quite often.

Bostons are amazingly intelligent, boisterous, and playful. If well-trained they almost always heed your command willingly. Children love them and Boston's love them back. They especially love to jump up and lick the face ears and neck. They are easy to take care of with average shedding but short hair that stays clean well. They're trained quite easily, often needing only several introductions to something new before they catch on. They want to please you, and are good at matching the mood of their owners. If you lie down to take a nap, don't be surprised if your Boston quietly crawls in beside you. If you are in the mood to play, he'll gladly join in- it's his favorite thing to do.

Bostons are not excessive barkers. In fact they rarely bark at all, unless they sense an intruder- which makes them great watchdogs. A Boston Terrier's face is very expressive. They make eye contact often, and easily respond to your commands. They don't require too much space. This makes them good for house pets, or for people who live in apartments, or townhomes. They like to be taken on walks and car trips. They do great in the car and are relaxed rather than skittish.

Some funny traits Bostons have are related to their very compact facial structure. They are loud sleepers -they snore! But if you can live with that, it soon becomes unnoticeable, or if not unnoticeable at least endearing. Watch for a Boston's eyes, as they protrude further than the average dogs, and are thus susceptible to injury.

Boston Terriers are fun-loving, adorable, spunky, and intelligent. They love to express their enthusiasm for their owners, or best friends, while remaining friendly and social in a group. They enjoy making buddies with other dogs as well.

If you are trying to find a suitable breed for the needs of your family, do some research on Boston Terriers. And if you decide to bring one home, you'll soon fall and stay in love.

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