Are you thinking about getting a Boston Terrier for the first time? As any true student, it is time to create a pros and cons list to see if a Boston is right for you.
Fun Fact: Pros and cons is Latin, pro et contra, meaning for and against.
After owning Bella for a decade and talking to hundreds of different Boston owners, here is a definitive list of the positives and negatives of owning a Boston.
Some of the negatives I have listed may be your positives and vice versa. Either way, I hope this article will help you mack the best decision on whether or not you get a Boston Terrier. Remember this decision is at a minimum a 12-year decision, I want you to make the right choice.
Now on with the list…
The Pros and Cons Of Owning A Boston Terrier Puppy
The Boston Terrier is a friendly pup that originated in the United States in the late 1800s. Bred from an English Bulldog and a White English Terrier, he was originally developed in Boston, Massachusetts.
They have become known for their pleasant temperaments and outgoing personality, which makes them ideal family pets. With their short coat in black, brindle or seal with white markings, plus their distinctive square head and large expressive eyes, these dogs are both cute and charming.
And although they don’t require much exercise, they will still love being taken out on daily walks to enjoy exploring new territory!
Cons List Of Owning A Boston Terrier
I want to first start with the negatives of owning a Boston before we get into the positives, I want to end on a happy note. Once again, some negatives might be your positives.
| Cons |
| Fart: Boston’s have gas that can literally clear a room. Even with a proper diet, you can still have a gassy Boston. |
| Snore: Be prepared to have an old man in your room at night, because these little animals snore like a 50-year-old man. |
| Stubborn: Boston Terriers are notoriously stubborn. If they do not want to do something they want. While they are easy to train, you may have to work around a strong personality. |
| Extreme Temperatures: Boston’s are made to be indoor dogs. This breed does not do well in extreme hot or cold temperatures. Buying your Boston a coat for the winter is necessary. |
| Allergies: I have met several Boston Terriers who must eat a grain-free diet. Bella can not eat any grain if she does her skin dries out and becomes red. |
Read: Everything You Want And Need To Know About The Boston Terrier – Before You Get One!
Pros List Of Owning A Boston Terrier
This is the list that will make you want to get a Boston Terrier. Make sure you are weighing both the pros and cons when making your decision.
| Pros |
| Cuddle: Boston’s love to cuddle right next to their owners daily. |
| Playful: At some point in the day, usually in the evening, your Boston will come to life and want to play with you. While they do sleep all day, they will want to play daily. |
| Easy Going: Boston’s are very calm dogs. Bella only gets excited when there is a stranger literally at the door. |
| Easy Grooming: Boston’s require little to no grooming. Because of their short coat washing your dog and clipping your Boston’s nails are only required monthly. |
| Limited Barking: Boston’s, in general, bark less than most dogs. Bella only barks at us at night when she wants something and when someone knocks on the door. |
| Limited Shedding: Boston’s have a very short coat. The shedding they do produce is small and amounts to about a handful a week. |
Are Boston Terriers good dogs?
Boston Terriers are adorable, smart dogs that make excellent companions. They are known for how affectionate and loyal they are, making them wonderful family pets. Boston Terriers have a gentle personality and tend to get along well with other dogs and children.
They are medium energy, so they don’t require extensive exercise but still require daily walks. If you’re looking for an even-tempered and friendly companion that is also good at learning commands, look no further than the Boston Terrier!
All in all, this breed of dog is quite hearty both mentally and physically and will certainly be a great four-legged friend for any household.
Boston Terrier Health Issues
Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and several eye issues can plague these small, lovable dogs. It’s also important to note that Boston Terriers may be predisposed to certain allergies and skin conditions such as Dermatitis.
Thankfully, advances in veterinary care have made it possible for many of these issues to be managed properly with careful observation and the proper treatments. To ensure your pup is safe from these risks, make sure to give them regular check-ups with a qualified vet and take steps to keep their immune system working at its best.
Real Reasons To Not Get A Boston Terrier (Video)
Here is a video where I explain five reasons you may not want to get a Boston Terrier.
5 Real Owners Talk About Owning A Boston (Video)
Here is a video I did where I asked five other Boston Terrier parents to talk about what they like about this amazing dog breed.
Final thoughts…
So what is your decision, will you be getting a Boston Terrier or not? No matter your decision, you made the right choice. Deciding on what type of dog you get is a personal decision, and no matter the selection you have made the right one for yourself and your family.
If you decided to get a Boston, here is a resource to find either a Boston Terrier Breeder near you or a Boston Terrier Rescue near you.
- Boston Terrier Breeders In The United States and Canada
- 47 Boston Terrier Rescues Across The United States and Canada
Also, be sure to check out other articles here on the Boston Terrier Society to help you become better Boston Terrier Owners. Or check out the Boston Terrier Society’s YouTube Channel.