Boston Terrier — size comparison

The Boston Terrier is a small, compact dog with a short muzzle, upright ears and large round eyes. Dark or brindle hair with white markings on the chest, muzzle and legs resembles formal evening wear. The head is almost square and the body strong and balanced. A short tail and lively, free movement complete its recognisable appearance.

The breed developed in Boston in the second half of the nineteenth century. An important ancestor was Hooper’s Judge, descended from a bulldog and a white English terrier. Successive generations became smaller, and breeding favoured companionship. The early name American Bull Terrier was replaced with a name recalling the city. The American Kennel Club recognised the Boston Terrier in 1893.

Bostons are generally cheerful and sociable and enjoy taking part in household events. They readily join games, especially when human attention is involved. They can be inventive and quick to learn, but may insist on doing things their own way. Emotions show in their expressions and whole-body movement. In familiar surroundings, short bursts of activity often alternate with rest near family.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i klasy masy — FCI
• Orientacyjny zakres wysokości — PDSA
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia