Who this breed is NOT for
Anyone in a hot climate without AC, or expecting a rugged outdoor athlete. As with all flat-faced breeds, mind the breathing and heat.
Bred to do
An American companion breed — the 'American Gentleman.' Bred for friendly, lively companionship.
Exercise needs
Moderate — daily walks and play. Lively but adaptable; happy in a city. As a flat-faced breed, they overheat easily — avoid heat and hard exercise.
Temperament
Friendly, smart, lively, affectionate, and often comical. People-oriented and generally good-natured — a genuinely easygoing small breed.
Trainability
Moderate to high — smart and eager to please, usually one of the easier small breeds to train, though some stubbornness. Housetraining can take patience.
With kids & pets
Generally very good with both — friendly and sturdy for their size. A good family and first-timer small dog.
Living situation
Excellent apartment and city dog — small, adaptable, moderate energy. Sensitive to both heat and cold; they need climate protection.
Grooming & shedding
Short coat, low grooming, modest shedding.
Health & costs
A brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed — watch breathing and heat sensitivity, plus eye problems (those big eyes are injury- and ulcer-prone), and some spinal issues. Budget for possible eye/airway care.
Best fit
People — including first-timers, families, and apartment dwellers — who want a friendly, lively, adaptable small companion.
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A note from Kerri
Boston Terriers are one of the more genuinely easy, friendly small breeds — a solid pick for lots of homes. Just respect the flat face: protect them from heat, watch those big eyes, and you've got a charming, low-drama little companion.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Casfuy 2-Speed Electric Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinder
A quiet, rechargeable nail grinder that provides a gentle alternative to clippers for at-home nail maintenance.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
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Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
A critical preventative tool for deep-chested breeds to help avoid Bloat (GDV) by slowing down eating and reducing air ingestion.
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Virbac C.E.T. Dual-Ended Dog Toothbrush
A soft-bristled brush with a small head is ideal for the final stage of the week-by-week plan to reach the outer surfaces of the teeth.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.