(This is a seal and white Boston Terrier puppy)

The Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is often referred to as "The American Gentleman," and it has been said that "There is no better -- no greater companion" than the Boston Terrier.  Many adjectives have been used to describe this little dog; the Boston has been called:  lively, affectionate, delightful, intelligent, stylish, sturdy, handsome, elegant, loving loyal, and most of all -- an extraordinary companion dog.

An American Kennel Club online article describing the Boston Terrier says, "He's as full of fun as a baseball game and as lovable as a Teddy bear.  He's as reliable as a Chevrolet and low-maintenance as a pair of blue jeans.  He's as friendly as a cowboy and as courageous as a Minute Man.  He's always well-dressed and usually well-mannered."

Boston Terrier History

Following the Civil War, the Boston Terrier breed was developed in the stables of Boston, Massachusetts, as a fighting dog. He was bred from crosses between the English Bulldog and the English White Terrier (and other dogs).  These little dogs were very intelligent and showed the best features of both of these parent breeds.

In 1893 the Boston Terrier breed received its first recognition when 75 Bostons were approved for admission into the stud book of The American Kennel Club.  Following recognition, the breed developed rapidly, and the Boston Terriers soon found a place in homes and hearts all across America.

For the first half of the 20th Century, the Boston Terrier was the leading choice of pet owners across the United States and accounted for the largest number of AKC registrations of any breed. AKC says, "Part of the breed's success was due to its American origins; unlike many breeds whose programs relied on Imports from Europe, the Boston's population did not decrease during the World Wars, when shipping dogs was difficult.  But mostly, the Boston was and is popular because it is, to put it simply, a great little dog and an easy keeper."  This article also says, "Bostons are usually described as near-perfect companions; friendly, affectionate, gentle with children and other animals, playful, comical, lively and intelligent, clean and easy to train.  Bostons live for their owners; they are eager to please and prefer to be right by their owner's side at all times.

text from The Boston Terrier Club of America