|
The
Boston Terrier ©
 |
The
Tuxedo-Clad little dog with the captivating expression
and the big heart is formally known as the Boston
Terrier. The Boston, while not a fighter, is well able
to take care of himself; but the breed’s suave apparel
and its distinguished charm have earned it the nickname
‘The American Gentleman’.
Boston Terriers can be found in all areas of the country
and can be seen at dog shows in the Non-Sporting Group,
the group that fills man’s greatest need - the need
for companionship. |
The Boston
Terrier was America’s first native purebred. Developed in
Boston, Massachusetts during the 19th century by crossing the
English Bulldog and the now extinct white English Terrier and
then inbreeding and cross breeding with a number of branches of
his parents families (Miniature Bulldog, Terrier and French
Bulldog). At this time the American Kennel Club, itself was not
very well established, and was somewhat reluctant to go on
record as accepting a new breed. The Club ruled that the dog
could not be purebred until it had been produced pure for three
generations. Eventually he was recognized by the American Kennel
Club in 1893, and was first registered in Canada in 1888 - 1889.
He became the most popular breed in the States, between the
years 1929 - 1935.
Early photos of
these dogs are much different than what you see today. After
recognition, breeders began to standardize the Boston in
earnest. Color markings became symmetrical; a gentle disposition
was evolved; a body more resembling the terrier than the bulldog
was developed. In the early days sizes ranged anywhere from 7
pounds to 35 pounds. The present weight range is from 10 to 25
pounds, and the average weight is between 15 to 20 pounds.
The Boston
Terrier is a lively, compact, well-balanced dog. He has a smooth
coat, short muzzle, dark eyes, erect ears, and natural short
tail. Its color is dark brindle, seal or black, usually with
white on the muzzle, face, neck, brisket and legs. His
intelligent expression is a trademark of the breed. Because of
his conformation (large head, narrow pelvis) the Boston is a
difficult and often expensive breed to produce.
He’s a true
companion, kind, gentle and affectionate, with a keen and clever
brain. A natural watchdog, he quickly learns that some people
should be barked at, others ignored. An alert policeman, he will
come to the aid of his master, if need be, with hardly a thought
for his own safety. It is difficult to find a dog that will make
a more devoted pet for both adults and children. Raised with a
child, a Boston takes on a sense of responsibility, and the
quick, intelligent brain of the little dog tells him that the
tot needs to be looked after. Even old dogs, unaccustomed to
children, usually take readily to a new infant in the family.
The temperament
of a typical Boston puppy is sweet and lovable. He is alert and
willing to please if given love and understanding by his owner.
Genuinely “a people’s dog” preferring his owner’s
companionship to that of other members of the animal kingdom. He
rapidly becomes one of the family, will occupy his favourite —
and usually the most comfortable — chair, and will not be
offended if a human expresses a desire to join him in it. He is
adaptable to the smallest home because of his size, disposition
and short coat. He loves to romp and play with children and
adults alike. He is a true house dog.
The Boston
Terrier, like every breed has its own unique mannerisms and
characteristic ways. They make wonderful pets and companions
because of everything about them. To teach this breed what is
expected of them, is only a matter of time and patience, and
once they’ve learned, they will not forget.
They are good companion dogs. They are loyal, one-family dogs.
The short-haired breed are adaptable, fitting into a family in
any situation. They have enough personality to make them good
companions, but not so much that they are overactive or
unmanageable.
|
