Are you wondering if a Boston Terrier is an excellent outside dog?
I have been asked this question a few times by people like yourself who are planning on getting a Boston puppy for the first time.
When people ask me if Boston Terriers are outside dogs, I think of an outdoor dog. As in a dog that is literally living outside, a dog that is not allowed in the house, EVER.
With this picture in mind, here is my answer…
Are Boston Terriers Outside Dogs?
NO! Boston Terriers are made for in the home living. Boston’s do not do well in extreme heat or cold. A Boston is great for fun in the outdoors. It is, however, not a dog meant to live in the great outdoors.
Here is some additional information you may want to consider…
Do Boston Terriers Make Good Outside Dogs?
Once again, as for living permanently outside the Boston Terrier is not the right fit. However, if you are looking for a dog who will enjoy the outdoors with you, a Boston is a good match.
Listen To What Owners Say About Boston Terriers Being Outside Dogs
I ran a poll to see what other Boston Terrier owners and lovers say about the breed being able to live outside.
Do you think it would be a good idea to have a Boston Terrier as an outside dog? As in only live outside.
— Boston Terrier Society (@Boston_Society) May 22, 2020
The overwhelming response was, NO!
Do Boston Terrier Enjoy The Outdoors?
Now, if you are wanting a dog breed to take with you on walks and to enjoy the outdoors, the Boston Terrier can be a great fit.
Bella, my Boston, loves going doing these things:
- Going on walks
- Swimming in the lake
- Hiking trails
Boston Terriers Living It Up In The Great Outdoors
View this post on Instagram📖 By the way — if you want all of this in one place, I wrote The Complete Boston Terrier Guide. 14 years of real-world advice on health, training, and care. Grab it on Amazon →
Boston Terriers Are Sensitive To The Heat
The Boston Terrier is a breed that tends to overheat easily. This is due to their short nose and just the overall build and size.
If a Boston is outdoors for long periods in the heat, your dog can become heat exhausted.
Here Are Some Signs Of Heat Exhaustion
- Excessive Panting
- Deep Labored Breathing
- Excessive Drooling
- Collapse
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you are concerned about heat exhaustion, here is a more in-depth article. I created on the signs of heat exhaustion and tips to prevent it, 7 Signs Your Boston Terrier Is Overheating.
Boston Terriers Do Not Handle The Cold Well
Once again, a Boston is not a dog breed well adapted for permanently outdoor living. Because of the Boston’s thin coat, it has very little protection from the cold.
Growing up, I was raised with a number of dogs breeds a Husky, Rottweiler, Dalmatian, Black Lab, and a Rat Terrier, to literally name a few.
And my Boston Terrier, Bella, is the only one I can remember who refuses to go outside when it is cold.
Bella will make me put a coat on her before she goes somewhat willingly.
Do Boston Terriers Enjoy The Cold Weather?
I asked this question to the Boston Terrier Society Twitter community, and this was the response.
Does your Boston Terrier enjoy the cold weather? #bostonterrier
— Boston Terrier Society (@Boston_Society) February 12, 2020
The response once again was a resounding, no. Boston Terriers, in general, do not enjoy the cold weather.
Dog Breeds That Would Be Perfect For Outdoor Living
If you are someone who wants a dog that will be living permanently outdoors, here is a list of 10 dog breeds to check out (source
).
According To Wag Here Are 10 Suitable Dog Breeds For Outdoor Living:
- A Large Mixed Dog Breed
What Dog Breeds Should Not Be Left Outside?
Any small dog breed or medium dog breed with a short coat should not be living outside.
Here Is A List Of 10 Dog Breeds That Should Not Be Living Outside
Final thoughts…
If you are thinking about getting a Boston Terrier and your goal is to have a dog that lives outside the Boston Terrier is not a dog breed for you.
While this breed does enjoy the great outdoors, their thin coat and build do not make them ideal for living in the elements.
There are many other great breeds that would be perfect for this type of living situation.