Breed History: Unlike most breeds, the origin of the Boston terrier is well-documented. Around 1865, the coachmen employed by the wealthy people of Boston began to interbreed some of their employers’ fine dogs. One of these crosses, between an English terrier and a bulldog, resulted in a dog named Hooper’s Judge. Although Judge weighed over 30 pounds, he was bred to a smaller female, and their son was in turn bred to another smaller female. Their progeny, probably interbred with one or more French bulldogs, provided the foundation for the Boston terrier. By 1889, the breed had become sufficiently popular in Boston that fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, but this proposed name for the breed was not well-received by bull terrier fanciers. The breed’s nickname, roundheads, was similarly inappropriate. Shortly after, the breed was named the Boston terrier, after its birthplace. The Boston’s rise from non-existence to AKC recognition was meteoric by modern standards, as the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1893, less than 20 years after the breed was born. Breeders continued to seek greater consistency. In early years, colour and markings were not particularly important, but by the early 1900s, the breed’s distinctive markings had become an essential breed feature. The handsome little Boston terrier quickly gained favour throughout America, ranking as one of the most popular breeds in the early to middle 1900s and retaining great popularity today.

Description: This is a lively dog that needs daily exercise and interaction with its people. It loves games, and most of its exercise requirements can be met with a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. It cannot live outdoors entirely. Some Boston's wheeze and snore, and many don’t tolerate heat or extreme cold well. The coat requires only minimal care, an occasional brushing to remove dead hairs and a bath. Grooming for the show ring requires the removal of facial whiskers and stray hairs,trimming around the collar and in-between pads to keep the clean, smooth appearance.

Function/Form: The Boston terrier is a compactly built, square-proportioned, short- backed, clean-cut dog. It should convey the impression of determination, strength, sturdiness, liveliness, and style, with a graceful carriage. It retains many of the attributes of its bulldog ancestors, but in a clean-cut package that makes a handy house companion. Its short fine coat, with distinctive markings, adds to its dapper appearance.