Boston Terrier breeders will tell you that the Boston Terrier, which is the state dog of Massachusetts, is really not a Terrier at all. Called the Boston Bull and the Boston Bull Terrier, the Boston Terrier descended from two now extinct breeds, the Old English Bulldog and the English White Terrier. A man by the name of Robert C. Hopper bred the first Boston Terrier (then referred to as a Bull Terrier which Bull Terrier breeders were quite unhappy with). He bred subsequent litters with various Bulldog mixes such as the French Bulldog to make this breed a small-sized, non-aggressive companion dog. Though the Bulldog was bred to fight bulls and other dogs, this trait has been bred out of the Boston Terrier. Boston Terrier breeders describe Boston Terriers as gentle, alert intelligent, and affectionate. The breed is the first American-bred dog to be included in the American Kennel Club. The breed was recognized in 1893.
Due to their close ancestry with Bulldogs, some Boston Terriers can have behavioral issues such as territoriality, rambunctiousness, excessive barking and aggressive behavior toward other dogs. Most of the aggression has been bred out, but Boston Terrier puppies need to receive close monitoring from birth to make sure they do not expressive dominant behaviors. This breed is very sensitive to tone of voice and Boston Terrier breeders will inform buyers that a little bit of vocal coaching goes a long way. Boston Terriers do not respond well to negative reinforcement, shouting or punishment. However, positive reinforcement techniques such as soothing vocal tones and treats can be successful, particularly with housebreaking.

The short, fine coat of the Boston Terrier requires minimal grooming. Nails should be clipped regularly and the face and ears should be wiped with a damp cloth every day. Boston Terriers are prone to ocular conditions such as cherry eye and cataracts so eyes should be checked regularly. This breed requires a daily walk but can live happily in an apartment or a home with a small backyard.
The first question a potential Boston Terrier buyer needs to ask himself is why he wants a Boston Terrier. Though not the most difficult breed to raise, Boston Terriers require constant care and affection. Grooming and exercise are low maintenance, but initial training and discipline of a Boston Terrier puppy requires intense work. Buyers should thoroughly research the breed to make sure they can meet its needs. Once buyers have found that this is the breed they are looking for, they can begin researching Boston Terrier breeders. A good place to start is the Internet. The American Kennel Club and Boston Terrier Club provide links to area breeders on their websites. Buyers may also ask for references from local breeders or animal shelters. Boston Terriers should never be purchased from online breeders that offer next day pets or overnight shipping. Puppies are not merchandise. A well-socialized, healthy, pedigreed Boston Terrier can only be purchased from a reputable and loving Boston Terrier breeder.

Good Boston Terrier breeders interview buyers to make sure they can provide loving homes for Boston Terrier puppies. Tips for finding Boston Terrier breeders and Boston Terrier information is provided in this article.

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