Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are one of the better choices for a family with children. Expect a small dog that is moderately active, barely sheds and needs very little grooming. Fine alone for a few hours.
The numbers
| Height | 10–12 in |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12–25 lb |
| Life expectancy | 11–13 years |
Source: American Kennel Club breed standard.
What Boston Terriers are actually like
The Boston Terrier was the first breed developed in the United States, in the city it is named for, from crosses between English Bulldogs and the now-extinct white English Terrier. Its old nickname is "the American Gentleman", partly for the tuxedo markings and partly for the manners — Bostons are famously easy-going, adaptable and less demanding than most small dogs. They suit flats, they are quiet by small-dog standards, and the short smooth coat is almost no work. The face is the caveat. Bostons are brachycephalic, so heat, hard exercise and air travel all carry more risk than for a longer-nosed dog, and the prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury and ulcers. Snoring is simply part of the deal.
Day to day. Moderately active — a proper daily walk plus some play in the garden or the hallway keeps this breed happy. On noise, it is about average for noise.
The coat, honestly. This breed barely sheds and needs very little grooming. A brush a few times a week and the occasional tidy-up keeps it in good order.
Being left alone. Fine alone for a few hours. A few hours is fine; a full working day, every day, is asking a lot.
Training. Eager and easy to train. That makes it a forgiving choice for a family training their first dog, as long as everyone is consistent.
Get one if…
- You want a dog with a reputation for putting up with children
- You would rather brush and pay a groomer than vacuum every day
- You want a dog whose coat looks after itself
- You are short on space and want a dog that fits your home
- This is your first dog and you want one that makes training feel possible
Think again if…
Health worth knowing about
Every animal is an individual, and plenty of Boston Terriers live long, healthy lives. This is here so nobody is surprised — ask a vet, and ask whoever you get the dog from what they have tested for.
What it costs to keep one
Rough running cost: $$ (middle of the pack) — because the breed has known health issues that can mean extra vet visits.
Those are relative bands, not live prices. For real numbers across every pet we cover, see the pet cost study and the cost calculator.
Looking for one? Start at a shelter
Rescues do have Boston Terriers and Boston Terrier crosses, usually adults whose size, coat and temperament you can see rather than guess at.
Often compared with
❓ Common questions about Boston Terriers
Is a Boston Terrier good with kids?
Yes — Boston Terriers have a strong reputation with children. As with any animal, an adult should supervise young kids and the dog together, and children need to learn to leave it alone while it eats or sleeps.
Do Boston Terriers shed a lot?
Very little. The trade is grooming: this coat needs regular brushing and professional trims, or it mats.
Can a Boston Terrier be left alone during the day?
For a few hours, yes. A full working day every day is asking a lot of any dog.
Is a Boston Terrier a good first dog?
It is one of the more forgiving choices. Easy to train and tolerant with families — the usual caveats about exercise and grooming still apply.
Should I get a Boston Terrier?
Boston Terriers suit a home that keeps to a routine, can work around the animal's day, and is not fussy about coat care. Meet the dog itself before deciding. Get one if: You want a dog with a reputation for putting up with children; You would rather brush and pay a groomer than vacuum every day; You want a dog whose coat looks after itself; You are short on space and want a dog that fits your home; This is your first dog and you want one that makes training feel possible. Think again if: .
📚 Where this comes from
We check our care advice against vets, animal charities, and government health guidance. Here is what this page is built on.
Vets, charities & official guidance
- Breed standards & vital statistics — American Kennel Club
- Preventing dog bites — AVMA
- Brachycephalic dogs policy — British Veterinary Association
- Puppy socialization position statement — AVSAB
- People foods to avoid feeding your pets — ASPCA
- Spaying and neutering — AVMA
Keeper & species-community guides
Checked August 2026. These are other people’s websites, and none of it replaces your own vet — if a pet seems unwell, call one.