25 questions to answer before owning a Boston Terrier
You want a small dog with a huge personality — one that plays hard, snuggles harder, and fits right into a busy home or a cozy apartment.
If that sounds like your dream dog, the Boston Terrier deserves a serious look.
Nicknamed "America's Gentleman" for its tuxedo-like markings, this pint-sized charmer packs love, humor, and mischief into one compact frame.
But here's the honest truth: they're not for everyone.
Below, you'll get the full picture — temperament, training, health, costs, and the quirks nobody warns you about — so you can decide with confidence.
First, let’s meet the dog behind the tuxedo.
What Are Boston Terriers Really Like?
Boston Terriers were originally bred for dogfighting back in the day.
But don't let that rough history fool you.
Today's Bostons are all about love, play, and snuggles — small in size, huge in heart.
They're affectionate, playful, and surprisingly smart. They tend to get along with just about everyone: kids, strangers, and even the family cat.
Here's the catch, though: that intelligence has a cheeky side.
Their smarts can show up as mischief, which is exactly why early training and consistent boundaries matter so much.
“Small in size, huge in heart — Bostons never fail to make an impression.”
They're great snugglers too — maybe not lapdogs in the traditional sense, but they'll happily curl up beside you for a nap after a good play session.
There's one thing they really can't handle, though.
Being left alone for long. These pups are deeply people-oriented and can develop separation anxiety when they're home by themselves too much.
Are They Good with Kids and Other Pets?
In a word? Absolutely.
Boston Terriers are one of the most child-friendly breeds around.
Their gentle nature, small size, and playful energy make them wonderful companions for kids.
Young kids
GreatGentle and playful — but supervise young children as with any dog.
Other dogs
With careUsually friendly, though some males can get territorial.
Cats
GoodMore tolerant than most terriers with proper introductions.
Strangers
GreatSocial butterflies who rarely meet a person they don’t like.
They're far more tolerant of other pets than most terriers.
With calm, proper introductions, Bostons usually do well with other dogs and even cats.
So how hard are they to train and tire out?
Training and Exercise Needs
Good news: Boston Terriers are eager to please.
That makes most training relatively easy — with one notable exception.
Potty training. This is the part that tests your patience, so expect a few accidents before it clicks.
How to train a Boston the right way
- Use positive reinforcementReward with treats and praise — they respond far better to encouragement than correction.
- Keep sessions short and upbeatA few five-minute bursts beat one long, boring drill.
- Be consistent with potty routinesSame spot, same schedule, lots of praise for getting it right.
- Start earlySocialize and set boundaries while they’re young to curb the mischief.
Now, about exercise.
Bostons are lively but not hyperactive.
Around an hour a day — split into two walks plus some playtime — is usually plenty.
Living Space and Grooming
Renting a small apartment? No problem.
Boston Terriers adapt beautifully to apartment living. They don't need a yard as long as they get their daily walks and play.
They also don't bark excessively — which makes them genuinely good neighbors.
Grooming is refreshingly simple, too.
- Brush the short coat weekly
- Check and clean eyes and ears regularly
- Inspect skin for irritation
- Leave them outside in extreme heat or cold
- Skip temperature protection — they have no undercoat
Their smooth coat sheds minimally, so weekly brushing usually does the trick.
Just remember: with no undercoat, they're sensitive to temperature extremes. A cozy sweater in winter isn't just cute — it's practical.
Now for the part every owner needs to understand.
Health and Lifespan
Boston Terriers are generally healthy little dogs.
But there's an important asterisk: they're a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have those signature flat faces.
What does that mean in practice?
It can lead to breathing issues, especially in heat or during intense exercise. Always keep a close eye on them on hot days.
If you're buying a puppy, this next point can save you thousands.
Going the cheap route often backfires with expensive health problems later.
The payoff for good care? With regular vet visits and love, a Boston Terrier can live 11 to 13 years — sometimes longer.
What to Expect (and Accept)
Every breed comes with a few quirks, and Bostons are no exception.
Here's the stuff people don't always mention out loud.
💨 They drool and fart
Not the worst offenders out there — but it’s honestly part of the package.
🛡️ They can be territorial
Especially males, though early socialization keeps it in check.
💰 They’re not cheap
A well-bred puppy runs $1,000–$2,000, and cutting corners costs more later.
🌡️ Sensitive to weather
Adjust their activity — and their wardrobe — for both heat and cold.
Quick poll
Which Boston quirk could you live with most easily?
Modern Bostons are gentle, affectionate companions. Their fighting history has nothing to do with today’s loving, people-oriented temperament.
Bostons are lively and need about an hour of activity a day to stay happy and well-behaved.
They shed little, but their eyes, ears, and skin still need regular checks and cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. They’re eager to please, adaptable, and friendly, which makes them a great pick for beginners — just be ready for patient potty training and plenty of companionship.
Not long. They’re people-oriented and prone to separation anxiety, so a few hours is fine but full workdays alone are best avoided. Consider a walker, daycare, or sitter.
Generally no. They’re not big barkers, which makes them excellent apartment dogs and considerate neighbors.
Very. Their gentle, playful nature makes them one of the most child-friendly breeds. Supervise interactions with young kids as you would with any dog.
Usually yes, with proper introductions. They’re more tolerant than most terriers, though some males can be territorial around other males.
For most owners it’s potty training and managing their heat sensitivity. Neither is a dealbreaker — just something to plan around.
A well-bred puppy typically costs $1,000 to $2,000. Buying from a reputable, health-screening breeder is worth the price to avoid costly problems later.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.