Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier Grooming Profile

Boston Terriers are compact, friendly companions that reach full physical maturity by 18 months. They are light year-round shedders with sleek, low-maintenance coats requiring weekly brushing, though their facial folds and eyes need daily care to prevent infections.

Breed Group

Companion Dogs

Country of Origin

United States

Breed Size

Small

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1893

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1955

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

2 / 10

Shedding

Low

8 / 10

Grooming need

5 mins/week

10 / 10

Low-maintenance

Easy

8 / 10

Size

Small

4 / 10

Growth timeline

10-12 months

2 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Boston Terrier hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Boston Terriers are not hypoallergenic dogs. While they have short, smooth coats that shed moderately, they still produce dander and saliva that can trigger allergic reactions. Sensitive owners may need to take extra precautions, such as frequent cleaning and grooming, to manage allergens in the home.

Allergy-friendly: 2 / 10

Do Boston Terrier shed?

Boston Terriers are light year-round shedders with short, sleek coats. While they are not hypoallergenic, their minimal shedding is easily managed with weekly brushing using a soft-bristle brush. You may notice a slight increase during seasonal transitions, making them an excellent choice for a low-maintenance, tidy home.

Shedding: 8 / 10

How often should you groom a Boston Terrier?

Boston Terriers are low-maintenance dogs that require weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or rubber mitt to manage light shedding. While their sleek coats only need occasional baths every four to six weeks, their facial folds and large eyes require daily cleaning to prevent irritation and infections.

Grooming need: 10 / 10

Are Boston Terrier low-maintenance dogs?

Boston Terriers are generally low-maintenance dogs, especially regarding their short, sleek coats that require only weekly brushing. However, they are not completely hands-off; their facial folds and prominent eyes need daily cleaning to prevent infections, and they require consistent companionship to avoid separation anxiety.

Low-maintenance: 8 / 10

How big do Boston Terrier get?

Boston Terriers are compact, sturdy dogs that typically stand 15 to 17 inches tall. They generally weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, categorized into three weight classes. Their well-proportioned, muscular build makes them adaptable for apartment living while remaining robust enough for active play with their families.

Size: 4 / 10

When do Boston Terrier stop growing?

Boston Terriers typically reach their full adult height by 12 months of age. Females typically stop growing at 12 months, while males can continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until 14 months. Females typically stop growing at 12 months, while males can continue until 14 months.

Growth timeline: 2 / 10

How much should a Boston Terrier eat?

Adult Boston Terriers typically require 1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food daily depending on caloric density, divided into two meals. Monitor their portions carefully and adjust based on their specific activity level, age, and metabolism. Adults may require 1 to 2 cups of food daily depending on caloric density.

Feeding amount: 3 / 10

How often should a Boston Terrier puppy eat?

Boston Terrier puppies should eat four times daily from eight weeks to three months, then transition to three meals until their first year.

Puppy feeding frequency: 9 / 10

Vet Insights

Boston Terriers are compact, friendly companions that reach full physical maturity by 18 months. They are light year-round shedders with sleek, low-maintenance coats requiring weekly brushing, though their facial folds and eyes need daily care to prevent infections.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified