Boston Terriers Are Full of Energy — and That’s Why We Love Them

The Boston terrier is the perfect bundle of love to add to your family.

The Boston terrier is a small dog that is easily identified by its black and white markings that resemble a tuxedo jacket, earning it the nickname “American Gentleman.” While it’s called a terrier, the American Kennel Club actually classifies it as part of the Non-Sporting group (it was the first breed so named).

Weighing no more than 25 pounds, this dog breed is known for its good nature and friendliness, making it a great companion that’s perfect for families.

A People-Oriented Dog Breed

JoeChristensen / Getty Images

Boston terriers are sociable and generally well-mannered. They need companionship, and they are unhappy when left alone for long periods of time.

They’re also very intelligent and tend to be good at canine sports such as agility and flyball.

Balls of Energy

Boston Terrier puppy lying on the grass chewing a tennis ball looking at the camera. There is copy space

CBCK-Christine / Getty Images

While they are less excitable than many other terriers, the Boston terrier is quite energetic — and it’s one of many reasons they’re so beloved.

They prefer interactive play such as fetch to occupying themselves.

Grooming and Health Issues

Vet examining little dog with stethoscope

Ridofranz / Getty Images

With a short smooth coat, the Boston terrier requires minimal grooming and occasional bathing, though their eyes should be checked daily for redness or irritation since the breed is prone to eye problems.

Since they are brachycephalic dogs, hot and humid weather can be dangerous; their flat broad nose and short, upper jaw can cause breathing problems. But they’re known to live more than 13 years.

An Unusual Shape

Getty Images

Their heads and eyes are also worth noting. Since their heads are exceedingly large at birth, puppies must be delivered by C-section.

A Boston terrier named Bruschi holds the Guinness record for the dog with the largest eyes.

Native to the United States

Boston Terrier Club of America

All Boston terriers descend from a bulky British dog named Judge, a cross between a bulldog and a white English terrier (which has since gone extinct).

In the late 1860s, Judge was sold to an American and moved to Boston. In 1870, the dog was sold again to Robert C Hooper who bred him to a small white female named Gyp.

Over time, the breed became smaller, sweeter and more attractive.

Its Boston Roots

CBCK-Christine / Getty Images

Originally called the Round Head, the breed’s name changed to Boston terrier in honor of the city of its origin. The AKC recognized the breed in 1893.

It also happens to be the official dog of Massachusetts and has been the mascot for Boston University for the past 100 years.

A Working Dog

Wikimedia Commons

A Boston terrier was the first dog to be awarded a rank in the U.S. Army.

Sergeant Stubby earned three service stripes, a wound stripe and the military Gold Medal.