Are you a Boston Terrier person?

You don't need to live in the 02110 zip code area to own a Boston Terrier. This is a breed that finds itself at home almost anywhere. Heres an adaptable, affable fellow who's not averse to a game of football, a rowdy tea party or a nice stroll downtown. All in all, the Boston Terrier is a companion dogand that is considered to be his only job! This means that he has been bred to have an even disposition and that he is a small dog who finds that his primary occupation in life is to keep his owners happy.

Even though he's a smallish companion dog, he's no toy doghes bigger than you think, and heavy for his size. Despite the Terrier in his name, he's not categorized at dog shows as a Terrier. In fact, at shows in the US, he competes in the Non-Sporting Group; in England, he belongs to the Utility Group. He finds himself classed with other terrific companion dogs like the Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, Shiba Inu and Miniature and Standard Poodles. He is considered to be a small- to medium-sized dog, weighing no more than 25 pounds in the largest weight class and weighing less than 15 pounds in the smallest weight class according to AKC specifications.

Before purchasing your Boston, you must give some thought to the personality and characteristics of this dog to determine if this is the breed for you. There are many considerations before you purchase any dog.

Lets begin with the most obvious question: do you have the time to give to a dog? He will need care, companionship, training and grooming. This is almost like having a child, except the dog remains childlike and will always require your care, though he doesn't strain your bank account when college time rolls around. No matter what the hardcore purists say, you can work a full-time job and own a dog. Its just a matter of setting priorities and including your Boston Terrier in your life when you're not in the office or on the job.

Nowadays owners have many options, including pet-sitters, dog-walkers and, best of all, doggy daycare! Your Boston Terrier will need quality time, though, just as a child needs it. He must be fed on a regular schedule and exercised several times a day. Consider taking him to the dog park or to some other dog-friendly location that your Boston will enjoy. Regardless of where you're going, he will likely enjoy rides in the car with you.

In addition to just spending time together, you must work with him to have an obedient dog that has good manners. You must devote time to his training and also make sure that he gets sufficient activity to keep him happily occupied. A walk or a good romp, in the morning and again in the evening, is the minimum.

Although grooming is minimal with the Boston, he will need to have his coat brushed on a regular basis and to have his toenails trimmed, teeth brushed and eyes and ears kept clean. You will want to make sure that he is a tidy dog that smells good.

Page 1 | 2