Dog breed · Non-sporting / companion
Boston Terrier
Friendly, lively, gentle
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–11 kg (11–24 lb)
- Height
- 38–43 cm (15–17 in)
- Life span
- 11–13 years
- Origin
- United States
By Maya HartThe coat
Short · White muzzle and chest
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Boston Terriers right for you?
You will love
- Gentle and patient with children
- Usually gets on with other pets
- Quick to learn
- Copes well in a flat
- Sheds little
- Next to no grooming
Be ready for
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Boston Terriers weigh 5–11 kg (11–24 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Boston Terrier
Nicknamed “the American gentleman” for its tuxedo markings, the Boston Terrier is a cheerful, sociable companion that suits flats and families. They are usually gentle with children and other pets, and most are keen to please.
Their short muzzle brings the same heat and breathing risks as other flat-faced breeds, though often less severe than in Pugs or French Bulldogs. Their prominent eyes are easily scratched, and any squinting or cloudiness needs a vet the same day. Choose a puppy with open nostrils and parents that breathe quietly.
Health to know about
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
- Corneal ulcers and cataracts
- Luxating patella
- Deafness
- Spinal malformations (hemivertebrae)
Care in short
- Avoid exercise in heat
- Use a harness
- Check the eyes daily for redness or squinting
- Keep lean
Kit for a Boston Terrier
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Best for short coats
Rubber grooming mitt
4.3Soft rubber nubs pick up loose hair and double as a massage.
- Works wet or dry
- Most pets enjoy it
Best for walks
Padded no-pull harness
4.5Front clip discourages pulling without pressure on the throat.
- Four adjustment points
- Reflective trim
Best for chewers
Natural rubber chew toy
4.6Tough, bouncy and stuffable; freeze it with food for longer.
- Several sizes
- Dishwasher safe
Similar breeds
| Trait | Boston Terrier |  Cavalier King Charles SpanielCompare |
 French BulldogCompare |
 PugCompare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5–11 kg (11–24 lb) | 5–8 kg (11–18 lb) | 8–14 kg (18–31 lb) | 6–8 kg (13–18 lb) |
| Energy | 3/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 2/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 3/5 | 1/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Questions owners ask
How big does a Boston Terrier get?
Adults usually weigh 5–11 kg (11–24 lb) and stand 38–43 cm (15–17 in) tall.
How long do Boston Terriers live?
Typically 11–13 years.
Are Boston Terriers good with children?
Known for being excellent (5 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Boston Terriers shed?
Not much.
What health problems are Boston Terriers prone to?
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome; Corneal ulcers and cataracts; Luxating patella; Deafness; Spinal malformations (hemivertebrae).
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts