Boston Terrier - wikipedia Boston Terrier Boston Terrier Boston Terrier with a black brindle coat Other names Boston Bull Boston Bull Terrier Boxwood American Gentlemen Origin The United States of America hide Traits Weight 15 -- 25 lb ( 7 -- 11 kg ) Male 8 - 25 lb Female 6 - 22 lb Height 9 -- 15 in ( 23 -- 38 cm ) Coat Short, smooth, & slick Color Brindle seal black with white Litter size 1 -- 6 puppies Life span 11 - 13 years hide Classification / standards FCI Group 9, Section 11 Small Molossian Dogs # 140 standard AKC Non-sporting standard ANKC Group 7 ( Non-Sporting ) standard CKC Group 6 - Non-Sporting standard KC ( UK ) Utility standard NZKC Non-sporting standard UKC Companion Breeds standard Notes State dog of Massachusetts Domestic dog ( Canis lupus familiaris ) The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog originating in the United States of America. This `` American Gentleman '' was accepted in 1893 by the American Kennel Club as a non-sporting breed. Color and markings are important when distinguishing this breed to the AKC standard. They should be either black, brindle or seal with white markings. Bostons are small and compact with a short tail and erect ears. The AKC says they are highly intelligent and very easily trained. They are friendly and can be stubborn at times. The average life span of a Boston is around 11 to 13 years, though some can live well into their teens. The American Kennel Club ranked the Boston Terrier as the 21st most popular breed in 2016. Contents 1 History 2 Description 2.1 Coat and color 2.2 Notable features 3 Behavior 4 Health 5 Grooming 6 Purposes beyond companionship 7 Popular Boston Terriers 8 See also 9 References 10 Further reading 11 External links History A six month old female Boston Terrier with a black coat A young male Boston Terrier with a black brindle coat The Boston terrier breed originated around 1870, when Robert C. Hooper of Boston, purchased from Edward Burnett a dog named Judge ( known later as Hooper 's Judge ), which was of a Bull and Terrier type lineage. Hooper 's Judge is either directly related to the original Bull and Terrier breeds of the 19th and early 20th centuries, or Judge is the result of modern English Bulldogs being crossed into terriers created in the 1860s for show purposes, like the White English Terrier. The American Kennel Club cites Hooper 's Judge as the ancestor of almost all true modern Boston Terriers. Judge weighed over 27.5 pounds ( 12.5 kg ). The offspring interbred with one or more French Bulldogs, providing the foundation for the Boston Terrier. Bred down in size from fighting dogs of the Bull and Terrier types, the Boston Terrier originally weighed up to 44 pounds ( 20 kg ) ( Olde Boston Bulldogge ). The breed was first shown in Boston in 1870. By 1889 the breed had become sufficiently popular in Boston that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, the breed 's nickname, `` roundheads ''. Shortly after, at the suggestion of James Watson ( a noted writer and authority ), the club changed its name to the Boston Terrier Club and in 1893 it was admitted to membership in the American Kennel Club, thus making it the first US breed to be recognized. It is one of a small number of breeds to have originated in the United States. The Boston Terrier was the first non-sporting dog bred in the US. In the early years, the color and markings were not very important. By the 20th century the breed 's distinctive markings and color were written into the standard, becoming an essential feature. The Boston Terrier has lost most of its aggressive nature, preferring the company of humans, although some males will still challenge other dogs if they feel their territory is being invaded. Boston University 's mascot is Rhett the Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier is also the mascot of Wofford College in Spartanburg, S.C. Description A female Boston Terrier with a black coat An adult male Boston Terrier with a black coat The Boston Terrier is a compactly built, well - proportioned dog. It has a square - looking head with erect ears and a slightly arched neck. The muzzle is short and generally wrinkle - free, with an even or a slightly undershot bite. The chest is broad and the tail is short. According to international breed standards, the dog should weigh no more than 25 pounds ( 11 kg ). Boston Terriers usually stand up to 15 - 17 inches at the withers. The American Kennel Club divides the breed into three classes : under 15 pounds, 15 pounds and under 20 pounds, 20 pounds and not exceeding 25 pounds. Coat and color The Boston Terrier is characteristically marked with white in proportion to either black, brindle, seal ( color of a wet seal, a very dark brown that looks black except in the bright sun ), or a combination of the three. Any other color is not accepted as a Boston Terrier by the American Kennel Club, as they are usually obtained by crossbreeding with other breeds and the dog loses its characteristic `` tuxedo '' appearance. According to the American Kennel Club, an ideal Boston Terrier should have white that covers its chest, muzzle, band around the neck, halfway up the forelegs, up to the hocks on the rear legs, and a white blaze between ( but not touching ) the eyes. For conformation showing, symmetrical markings are preferred. Due to the Boston Terrier 's markings resembling formal wear, in addition to its refined and pleasant personality, the breed is commonly referred to as the `` American Gentleman. '' Notable features The Boston Terrier 's large, prominent pair of eyes is a distinguishable feature. The breed 's round eyes are set widely apart, are large in size, and located squarely in the skull. The breed 's genetic makeup produces a short tail. These short tails can take the shape of a corkscrew, or curl, or they can be straight. Generally, Boston Terriers ' tails do not exceed two inches in length. Behavior Boston is a gentle breed that typically has a strong, happy - go - lucky, and friendly personality with a merry sense of humour. Bostons are generally eager to please their owner and can be easily trained. They can be very protective of their owners, which may result in aggressive and territorial behavior toward other pets and strangers. The breed requires only a minimal amount of grooming. While originally bred for fighting as well as hunting rats in garment factories, they were later down bred for companionship. They are not considered terriers by the American Kennel Club, however, but are part of the non-sporting group. Both females and males are generally quiet and bark only when necessary, though early training in this regard is essential. Their usually sensible attitude towards barking makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers. They enjoy being around people, get along well with children, the elderly, other canines, and non-canine pets, if properly socialized. Health A newborn Boston Terrier Boston Terrier in the agility ring. Curvature of the back, called roaching, might be caused by patella problems with the rear legs, which in turn causes the dog to lean forward onto the forelegs. This might also just be a structural fault with little consequence to the dog. Due to their shortened muzzles, many Boston Terriers can not tolerate excessively hot or cold weather and demanding exercise under such conditions can cause them harm. A sensitive digestive system is also typical of Boston Terriers with flatulence commonly being associated with poor diet in the breed. Their large and prominent eyes make Boston Terriers prone to corneal ulcers. Due to the breed being characterized by a short muzzle paired with a large pair of eyes, their eyes are susceptible to injury when making contact with sand, dust, debris, or sharp objects, such as plants with thorns. Bostons are brachycephalic breeds. The word comes from Greek roots `` Brachy, '' meaning short and `` cephalic, '' meaning head. This anatomy can cause tiny nostrils, long palates and a narrow trachea. Bostons may be prone to snoring and reverse sneeze -- a rapid and repeated forced inhalation through the nose -- accompanied by snorting or gagging sounds used to clear the palate of mucus, which does not harm the dog in any way. Brachycephalic dogs may be prone to complications with general anesthesia. Bostons frequently require caesarean section to give birth, with over 90 % of litters in a UK Kennel Club survey delivered this way. Grooming With a short, shiny, smooth coat, Boston Terriers require few grooming needs. Bostons produce light shedding, and weekly brushing of their fine coat is effective at removing loose hair. Brushing promotes the health of the coat because it distributes skin oils, and it also encourages new hair growth. Occasional bathing is suitable for the low - maintenance breed. The nails of Boston Terriers require regular trimming. Overgrown nails not only have the potential to inflict pain on the breed, but they can also make walking difficult or tear off after getting snagged on something. Similarly to nail trimming, teeth brushing should also be done regularly to promote good oral health. The risk of the breed developing oral pain, gum infection, or bad breath can be decreased with regular teeth brushing that removes plaque buildup and other bacteria. Purposes beyond companionship In the past, Bostons were primarily pit - fighting dogs, but with their friendly and happy temperament, they became companion dogs. In modern days, aside from being an excellent companion, the Boston Terrier also excels in all sorts of canine sports. The breed is increasingly popular in dog agility competitions, obedience training, rally obedience, tracking, dock diving, flyball, weight - pulling, barn hunt and lure coursing. Being such a versatile breed and with their outgoing personality and eagerness to meet new acquaintances, the Boston Terrier is a popular therapy dog. Popular Boston Terriers In 2012, a high school student named Victoria Reed took the advice of her veterinarian and submitted a photo of her Boston Terrier, Bruschi, to Guinness World Records. With each eye being 1.1 inches, or 28 mm, in diameter, Bruschi is recognized by Guinness to be the dog with the largest eyes. In 1921 at a ceremony to commemorate the United States ' 102nd Infantry, the U.S. Army awarded a gold medal to an honorable war dog : Sergeant Stubby. The Bull Terrier, possessing three service stripes and one wound stripe, was given rank in the U.S. Army - making him the first dog to ever earn it. The comforting, protective war dog was also rewarded a medal by France. Sergeant Stubby died in 1926 with the legacy of being the United States ' `` greatest war dog. '' See also Olde Boston Bulldogge References Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier ''. Animal World. ^ Jump up to : Meade, Scottee ( 2000 ). The Boston Terrier : An Owner 's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet. Howell Book House. ISBN 1 - 58245 - 159 - 1. ^ Jump up to : `` Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information ''. Akc.org. Retrieved 11 December 2017. ^ Jump up to : `` Archived copy ''. Archived from the original on 2007 - 02 - 16. Retrieved 2007 - 03 - 11. CS1 maint : Archived copy as title ( link ) Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier - American Kennel Club ''. Akc.org. Jump up ^ `` The Boston Terrier Club Of America ''. Bostonterrierclubofamerica.org. Jump up ^ `` Most Popular Dog Breeds - Full Ranking List ''. Akc.org. Retrieved 11 December 2017. Jump up ^ American Kennel Club 2013 Dog Registration Statistics Historical Comparisons & Notable Trends, The American Kennel Club, Retrieved 19 May 2014 ^ Jump up to : `` Get to Know the Boston Terrier '', ' The American Kennel Club ', retrieved 19 May 2014 Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information and Pictures ''. Dogbreedinfo.com. Retrieved 11 December 2017. ^ Jump up to : Boston Terrier Club of America. `` Boston Terrier eyes ''. Boston Terrier Club of America. Retrieved April 26, 2018. ^ Jump up to : Chester, Jo. `` Do Boston Terriers ' tails curl ? ''. The Nest. Retrieved May 10, 2018. Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier ''. Easy Pet MD. Retrieved May 10, 2018. ^ Jump up to : `` Boston Terrier ''. Vet Street. Retrieved May 9, 2018. Jump up ^ Cline, Mrs. Charles D. ( 1995 ). Boston Terriers. T.F.H. Publications, Inc. ISBN 0 - 7938 - 2397 - 8. Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier - Temperament & Personality ''. Petwave.com. Retrieved 11 December 2017. Jump up ^ `` Archived copy ''. Archived from the original on 2015 - 02 - 21. Retrieved 2015 - 02 - 21. CS1 maint : Archived copy as title ( link ) Jump up ^ `` Boston Terriers ''. adoptaboston.com. Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts -- Dogtime ''. Dogtime.com. Retrieved 11 December 2017. Jump up ^ `` Brachycephalic ''. marvistavet.com. Archived from the original on 2007 - 12 - 22. Jump up ^ `` Health Concerns : Respiratory System ''. Animal Health Center. New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association. Archived from the original on 2007 - 05 - 18. Retrieved 2007 - 04 - 06. Jump up ^ Evans, K. ; Adams, V. ( 2010 ). `` Proportion of litters of purebred dogs born by caesarean section '' ( PDF ). The Journal of small animal practice. 51 ( 2 ) : 113 -- 118. doi : 10.1111 / j. 1748 - 5827.2009. 00902. x. PMID 20136998. Archived from the original ( PDF ) on 2016 - 04 - 06. Jump up ^ Wedderburn, Peter ( 6 April 2009 ). `` Why do over 80 per cent of Bulldog births happen by caesarian section ? ''. The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 28 March 2011. ^ Jump up to : `` Boston Terrier ''. AKC. Retrieved May 10, 2018. ^ Jump up to : Bedwell - Wilson, Wendy. `` Boston Terrier health watch : teeth, gums, and jaw ''. Dummies. Retrieved May 10, 2018. Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier ''. Dog Time. Retrieved May 10, 2018. Jump up ^ `` Boston Terrier ''. Dog Breed Plus. Retrieved May 10, 2018. Jump up ^ `` The Boston Terrier Club Of America ''. bostonterrierclubofamerica.org. ^ Jump up to : Moye, David ( May 26, 2012 ). `` World 's largest dog eyes : Bruschi the Boston Terrier eyeballs world record ''. Huffington Post. Archived from the original on April 28, 2017. Retrieved April 3, 2018. ^ Jump up to : Kane, Gillian. `` Sergeant Stubby ''. Slate. Retrieved May 10, 2018. Further reading Bulanda, Susan ( 1994 ). Boston Terriers. Barron 's Educational Series, Inc. ISBN 0 - 8120 - 1696 - 3. External links Wikimedia Commons has media related to Boston Terrier. Wikisource has the text of the 1920 Encyclopedia Americana article Boston Terrier. Boston Terrier Club of America, Inc. Boston Terrier Club of Canada The Boston Terrier and All About It at Project Gutenberg ( First published 1910 ) Boston Terrier Photos, Videos and Informations `` The Boston Terrier '' in The power of the dog by Arthur Croxton Smith. 1910. Terriers Working breeds Long legged Airedale Terrier Bedlington Terrier Border Terrier Brazilian Terrier Enkarterriko Billanuko Fox Terrier ( Smooth ) Gos Rater Valencià Irish Terrier Jagdterrier Kaikadi Kerry Blue Terrier Lakeland Terrier Majorca Ratter Manchester Terrier Old English Terrier Parson Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Plummer Terrier Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Soft - coated Wheaten Terrier Welsh Terrier Wire Fox Terrier Short legged Australian Terrier Cairn Terrier Cesky Terrier Dandie Dinmont Terrier Glen of Imaal Terrier Jack Russell Terrier Japanese Terrier Miniature Fox Terrier Norfolk Terrier Norwich Terrier Rat Terrier Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Skye Terrier Sporting Lucas Terrier Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Tenterfield Terrier West Highland White Terrier Bull type breeds American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier Boston Terrier Bull Terrier Irish Bull Terrier Miniature Bull Terrier Staffordshire Bull Terrier Toy breeds Australian Silky Terrier English Toy Terrier ( Black & Tan ) Russkiy Toy Toy Fox Terrier Toy Manchester Terrier Yorkshire Terrier Miscellaneous American Hairless Terrier Russian Black Terrier Toy dogs Extant Affenpinscher Australian Silky Terrier Bichon Frisé Bolognese Bolonka Boston Terrier Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Chihuahua Chinese Crested Dog Coton de Tulear English Toy Terrier French Bulldog Griffon Bruxellois Havanese Italian Greyhound Japanese Chin King Charles Spaniel Lhasa Apso Löwchen Maltese Miniature Pinscher Miniature Poodle Papillon Pekingese Phalène Pomeranian Pug Russkiy Toy Shih Tzu Tibetan Spaniel Toy Fox Terrier Toy Manchester Terrier Toy Poodle Yorkshire Terrier Extinct Toy Trawler Spaniel Dogs originating in the United States Extant Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American Cocker Spaniel American English Coonhound American Foxhound American Hairless Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier American Water Spaniel Australian Shepherd Black and Tan Coonhound Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound Black Mouth Cur Blue Lacy Bluetick Coonhound Boston Terrier Boykin Spaniel Carolina Dog Catahoula Bulldog Catahoula Leopard Dog Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chinook Cur Feist King Shepherd Kyi - Leo Majestic Tree Hound McNab Miniature American Shepherd Miniature Australian Shepherd Mountain Cur Old Time Farm Shepherd Olde Boston Bulldogge Olde English Bulldogge Plott Hound Rat Terrier Redbone Coonhound Shiloh Shepherd Dog Silken Windhound Stephens Cur Swinford Bandog Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Texas Heeler Toy Fox Terrier Toy Manchester Terrier Treeing Cur Treeing Tennessee Brindle Treeing Walker Coonhound Trigg Hound White Shepherd Extinct Hare Indian Dog Hawaiian Poi Dog Salish Wool Dog Retrieved from `` https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Boston_Terrier&oldid=864356271 '' Categories : Toy dogs Dog breeds FCI breeds Terriers Dog breeds originating in the United States Symbols of Massachusetts Hidden categories : CS1 maint : Archived copy as title Articles with ' species ' microformats Articles with Project Gutenberg links Talk Contents About Wikipedia Català Čeština Cymraeg Deutsch Eesti Español فارسی Français Gaeilge 한국어 Bahasa Indonesia Italiano עברית ქართული Lietuvių Bahasa Melayu Dorerin Naoero Nederlands 日本 語 Norsk Polski Português Română Русский Simple English Suomi Svenska ไทย Tiếng Việt 中文 21 more Edit links This page was last edited on 16 October 2018, at 17 : 42 ( UTC ). 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Question: what is the average lifespan of a boston terrier
Answer: 11-13 years