Boston Terrier
A dapper, tuxedo-marked American companion breed known as the American Gentleman. Friendly, lively and adaptable, making an easy first dog, though its flat face can cause breathing and heat sensitivity.
Overview
A dapper, tuxedo-marked American companion breed known as the American Gentleman. Friendly, lively and adaptable, making an easy first dog, though its flat face can cause breathing and heat sensitivity.
Good to know — a Boston Terrier is flat-friendly and great for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Boston Terrier is good with children and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a quiet, and as a guide they are great for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Flats or houses with daily exercise
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Boston Terrier typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is wash-and-go and shedding is low. A quick brush now and then, plus the occasional bath when needed, is usually plenty.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Boston Terrier should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a small breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Friendly, adaptable and apartment-friendly
- Low-maintenance coat and great first dog
Things to consider
- Flat-faced, prone to breathing and heat issues
- Can be prone to snoring and gassiness
Similar breeds
French Bulldog
A compact, easy-going companion that suits flats and modest exercise — but with serious health considerations.
View breed guide →
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.
View breed guide →
Border Terrier
A hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.
View breed guide →
Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Boston Terriers good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Boston Terriers tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Boston Terrier need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Boston Terrier needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Boston Terriers shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is wash-and-go — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Boston Terriers easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Great for first-time owners. Boston Terriers are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Boston Terriers bark a lot?
Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Boston Terriers good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Boston Terriers suit flats or smaller homes?
Flat-friendly. A Boston Terrier can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.