🐾 Small · United States

Boston Terrier: Size, Weight & Temperament

A friendly, brachycephalic breed with a balanced, people-oriented temperament, whose short muzzle significantly limits heat and exertion tolerance and calls for careful exercise management.

Beginner-friendly
Boston Terrier dog breed portrait
Photo: Elf · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male5–11 kg
Weight female5–11 kg
Shoulder height38–43 cm
Size classSmall (under 12 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 12 months
Life expectancy11–13 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginUnited States
ClassificationFCI Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs)
Temperament & character

The Boston Terrier is people-oriented, playful, and generally good with children. It is considered adaptable and rarely overly watchful.

Exercise & stimulation

Moderate walks in cool weather are sufficient, since the short muzzle makes exertion difficult in heat and humidity. Strenuous activity should be scheduled for the cooler parts of the day.

Grooming

The short coat is low-maintenance, but the facial skin folds should be cleaned regularly. Because of the protruding eyes, care should be taken to avoid injury.

Suitable for beginners?

The Boston Terrier is a good beginner's dog but requires owners to understand brachycephalic traits such as heat sensitivity and noisy breathing. It suits owners who are mindful of its anatomy.

Health & common problems

As a brachycephalic breed, the Boston Terrier is predisposed to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Patellar luxation and corneal injuries also occur, so regular veterinary airway checks are recommended.

Good with: Apartment living, families, moderate climates

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.