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Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

SmallGroup 7 — Non SportingNon-Sporting11-13 yearsActivity: ModerateBarking: Occasional barkerShedding: Minimal
Weight

6.8-11.4 kg

Height

38-43 cm at the shoulder

Lifespan

11-13 years

Origin

United States (Boston, Massachusetts)

About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-balanced dog, often referred to as the 'American Gentleman' due to its dapper tuxedo-like coat and refined manners. This breed is characterized by its short, square head, large expressive eyes, and short tail. They are remarkably intelligent and highly sensitive to their owner's emotions, making them exceptional companions for a variety of households. Despite their origins as fighting dogs, modern Boston Terriers are purely companion animals. They are sturdy but portable, fitting perfectly into modern life. Their personality is a unique blend of terrier-like spunk and bulldog-like devotion. They are generally quiet indoors but possess a playful spirit that emerges during interaction, making them a joyful addition to the family home.

Breed Standard

Key characteristics from the breed standard

In the show ring, the Boston Terrier is a study in symmetry and style. They must possess a square skull, flat on top, with a short, wide muzzle and a distinct stop. Their large, dark, round eyes are set wide apart, creating a kind yet alert expression. The 'tuxedo' markings—a white muzzle band, blaze, and chest—are critical for correct breed type. Their movement is one of effortless grace; they should move with a straight-ahead gait that is both rhythmic and powerful, showing no signs of weakness in the loin or limbs. They are distinguished by their 'presence'—a combination of alert posture and a dignified, 'gentlemanly' air that commands the judge's attention.

In Australia

The Boston Terrier is believed to have been introduced to Australia in the mid-1920s, with imports recorded through the late 1920s and early 1930s. While the breed was exhibited and registered with state canine bodies from the time of its arrival, it gained significant popularity following World War II, as noted by Dogs Victoria.

Bred For

Originally bred in the 1870s as a cross between the English Bulldog and the now-extinct White English Terrier for pit fighting, the breed was quickly refined into its smaller, more companionable form known as the "American Gentleman."

Temperament

Intelligent, lively, affectionate, and even-tempered. They are known for their social nature and desire to be near their human companions.

Health Conditions Reported in the Breed

(), , Hereditary , , Corneal Ulcers, , and (skin allergies).

Exercise Needs

Moderate. They require daily walks and play sessions but are not suited for long-distance running or extreme physical exertion, especially in warm weather.

Grooming Needs

Low. Their short coat requires only weekly brushing and occasional bathing. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are essential.

Living Suitability

Excellent for apartment living and small homes. They are indoor dogs that require climate-controlled environments due to their heat sensitivity.

Good with Kids

Very good. They are sturdy enough for children and generally patient, though supervision is recommended with very young children.

Good with Other Pets

Generally good with other dogs and cats, especially when socialized from a young age, though some males may show occasional territoriality.

Trainability

High. They are eager to please and quick learners, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections and respond best to positive reinforcement.

Coat & Colours

Short, smooth, and fine-textured.. Brindle, seal (black with a red shimmer), or black, all with mandatory white markings (the 'tuxedo' look).

Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.

Things to Consider

Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know

Prospective owners should be aware that as a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, Boston Terriers are more likely to experience Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This means they can be susceptible to breathing difficulties, snoring, and severe heat intolerance; they must never be over-exercised in hot weather. Their prominent eyes are more predisposed to injuries and irritations, so care should be taken during play. Many Boston Terriers are also more likely to develop digestive flatulence—often affectionately called 'Boston gas'—which can often be managed with a high-quality fresh diet like Majestik. They are also prone to skin allergies and patellar luxation. While they are independent thinkers, they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak, though this is easily balanced by their immense desire for human affection and their charming, clownish behavior.

Feeding Guide for Your Boston Terrier

Healthy Weight

6.8-11 kg

Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)

180-330 grams of fresh food per day

For a Boston Terrier, a fresh or raw diet should consist of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For an average 9 kg adult, this equates to roughly 180-270 grams per day, split into two meals. Supplement suitability and dosage depend on the individual dog’s diet and health. Discuss targeted supplementation with your veterinarian or qualified canine nutrition professional.

Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.

Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.

Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach

Breed Diet Notes

A high-quality, highly digestible diet. Many Boston Terriers thrive on fresh or raw diets that minimize fillers which can contribute to excessive flatulence and skin sensitivities.

An ideal raw diet for a Boston Terrier should prioritize high-quality proteins such as Kangaroo (excellent for maintaining a lean weight) or Beef, available from Majestik Pet Food. Including a small amount of pureed green vegetables can provide fiber to assist with digestive health. Given their predisposition to gas, avoid high-carbohydrate fillers and legumes. Fresh fish or omega-3 supplements are beneficial for maintaining their skin health and coat shine.

These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.

Majestik Recommendation

Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.

Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.

Suitable for different needs

  • Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
  • Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
  • Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
  • Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
  • Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.

This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.

Boston Terrier Feeding Calculator

Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile

Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.

Have a question about your Boston Terrier? Dog Health AI

Dog Health AI

Why Majestik?

Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia

Australian Made

Made in Two Wells, South Australia

Freshly Prepared

Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients

No Fillers

No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives

Family Owned

Locally owned and operated

Local Delivery

Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas

Secure Checkout

Secure payment via Shopify checkout

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Breed Records & Facts

Average Litter Size

3-5 puppies

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