Small, highly intelligent and fun loving, the Boston Terrier is a popular companion for many people. This dog is the oldest American breed, originating in 1865 when upper crust Bostonians crossed the English Bulldog with the White English Terrier. This small, black-and-white colored dog has a short muzzle.

Boston Terrier puppies tend to be very playful. Seemingly unaware of their size, the dogs will, if allowed, overextend themselves. It is important that owners remain vigilant about monitoring their puppy’s water intake. In hot environments, it is common for Boston Terrier puppies to become dehydrated. Cold weather is a concern as well because the short hair of the breed provides little protection.

The short muzzle creates a few health concerns. Breathing can be a problem for some puppies. Owners should monitor their puppy’s breathing pattern. If for any reason this pattern seems irregular, take the puppy to the veterinarian immediately.

During the first 6 months of life, Boston Terriers often display an inability to fight off diseases. Owners should note any case of the mange, in particular. Boston Terrier puppies that catch the mange, a skin disease, can suffer permanent baldness if left untreated for too long.

In general, this breed is relatively healthy compared to other types of dogs.

These puppies do well in either apartments or small houses. There is no need for a large backyard. Boston Terriers can be rambunctious when playing, yet they are surprisingly inactive much of the time when in doors. Despite being small, Boston Terriers make effective guard dogs because they bark whenever strangers arrive. At most other times, these puppies tend to be quiet, though the short muzzle does make them snore.

Owners must beware of any indications of “Small Dog Syndrome” (SDS). SDS results when owners fail to establish themselves as the authority figure, resulting in a small dog attempting to fill the void through overly aggressive and domineering actions. Because Boston Terriers are smart dogs that respond well to human voice inflections, owners can easily divert SDS through a regular voice-command training regime early in the puppy’s life.