The
Boston Terrier dog presents the body of a terrier topped by a
distinctive short head. This is not a toy size dog but rather
medium sized, in any of the three weight classes: under 15 pounds;
15 to 20 pounds; and 20 to 25 pounds. Dogs are not to exceed
the 25 pound upper limit. The Boston's coat is smooth and
colored in brindle, black or seal (black with a red cast) with
evenly marked snow white on muzzle band, foreface blaze, and fore chest
and preferably on the legs too. This is a sturdy dog who is
compactly built and balanced; he must never appear spindly or
coarse, blocky or chunky. The head, a hallmark of the breed,
has a square skull which is flat on top, with flat cheeks, no
wrinkles, abrupt brow and a well defined stop. The eyes are
wide aare wide apart and dark in color, never blue. The muzzle
is short and square, deep and wide. The nose must be black,
and not speckled (dudley). The jaw is square and the bite
should be even or slightly undershot. Avoid wry mouths.
The body appears
short backed and the tail is set on low and straight or screw, and
is never docked. To allow for terrier style movement, the
shoulders must be sloping and well laid back and the legs should be
strong.
A Boston Terrier is
exceptional with children and as a house dog, and might be
considered a relaxed and responsive New England gentleman. Boston's
are fastidiously tidy and bear no doggy odor, making them easy care
companions. Although a little large for a lap dog, most owners
don't seem to mind the extra weight. In the home he is quiet
and good mannered, and makes a marvelous watchdog. Boston's
are generally non combative souls, but true to their heritage, they
can take good care of themselves. Their prominent and somewhat
bulging eyes are prone to injury if the game get too rough.
