Boston Terrier Dogs - Clever, Loving and Agile Companions
Boston terrier dogs are intelligent, lively, yet gentle dogs. It is hard to find a breed that makes a better all-round pet. The breed originated in Boston Massachusetts, hence the name! Boston terriers love attention, and if they don't get it they will certainly let you know!
This tuxedo-clad dog was originally bred for pit fighting. Since then it has been bred to be smaller and less aggressive. This increased its popularity as a family pet. Today it is found in homes across the United States.
With their elegant black and white coats, charm, and intelligence, Boston Terrier dogs are known as the 'American gentlemen' of dogs! As a combination of the best traits of the English Bulldog and the English Terrier they are a native to the United States.
Boston terrier dogs are friendly creatures with lovely personalities and quick minds. They do enjoy activity but won't need to be exercised excessively. A leisurely walk or run around the yard will usually be more then enough activity for this gentleman.
However, Boston terrier dogs are also well known for their agility skills at field trials and flyball events. They are able to run, weave, climb up planks and speed thorough tunnels with finesse. Since they are also quite obedient dogs they are a good choice for owners who wish to buy a dog to use in competitions.
Boston terrier dogs are also ideal for use in pet therapy work as they are easy-going and friendly with a gentle air that suits the care situation. Dogs that are a little rambunctious and tend to nip are usually ones that haven't been responsibly trained.
Boston terrier dogs can live 12 years or longer but if you are considering a Boston as a pet there are some important health problems you need to know about. They have short muzzles and prominent eyes and so are genetically predisposed to respiratory problems and eye infections or injuries. They may also wheeze and gulp air which can lead to intestinal gas and breathing difficulties.
Boston terrier dogs may also develop megaesophagus (which leads to regurgitation of undigested food), tumors, Cushings disease, thyroid disease, unilateral or bilateral deafness, heart problems, dermatitis, skin disease, neurologic disease, cataracts, skeletal diseases; and urinary tract problems. Buying your dog from a reputable breeder can ensure that these problems don't occur in your pet.
The training of Boston terrier dogs should go off without hitch as long as you are patient with a little bit of stubbornness. Because they may have respiratory problems a trainer should never rely on collar tugs to force the dog into position. Instead praise your Boston or use treats and toys to help him learn. Consider using prong collars that place even pressure around the neck instead of pop or tug chain collars.
Training Tips for Boston Terrier Dogs
* Praise the things your dog does right.
* Motivate your dog with things he likes - food, toys, praise etc. Each dog is different - what motivates your Boston terrier dogs?
* Sessions should be short and interesting - five minutes or less - with several daily sessions.
Above all Boston terrier dogs want to be your companion. Keep your Boston included in family fun and don't leave him alone. He will be your best friend and gentleman companion for many, many years to come!
