General Appearance
The Boston Terrier is a stylish and lively breed. It has a square appearance due to equal length of leg and body. Its short, smooth coat, compact build, and intelligent expression reflect its refined yet strong character. The dog should present a balanced and clean-cut appearance, without exaggeration.
Size
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Weight Categories:
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Under 15 lbs (7 kg)
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15 to under 20 lbs (7–9 kg)
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20 to not exceeding 25 lbs (9–11.3 kg)
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Height: Approximately 15–17 inches at the shoulder
Balance and proportion are more important than specific weight or height.
Head
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Skull: Square, flat on top, free from wrinkles.
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Stop: Well-defined.
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Eyes: Large, round, dark, and set wide apart. Positioned squarely in the skull. Expression is alert and kind.
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Ears: Small, erect, either natural or cropped to conform to the shape of the head. Set as near to the corners of the skull as possible.
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Muzzle: Short, square, wide, and deep. Free from wrinkles.
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Nose: Black and wide, with well-defined line between the nostrils.
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Bite: Even or slightly undershot. The jaw is broad and square.
Neck, Topline, and Body
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Neck: Slightly arched, carrying the head gracefully and blending smoothly into the shoulders.
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Topline: Level and straight.
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Body: Short and well-knit, giving the impression of strength and activity.
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Chest: Deep and broad with well-sprung ribs.
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Back: Short, maintaining a square build.
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Tail: Set low, short, fine, and tapering. It may be straight or screw-shaped but not carried above the horizontal.
Forequarters
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Shoulders: Sloping and well-laid back.
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Forelegs: Straight, set moderately apart, and well-muscled. Elbows neither in nor out.
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Feet: Small, round, and compact, with well-arched toes.
Hindquarters
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Thighs: Strong and muscular.
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Stifles: Well bent.
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Hocks: Short to the ground, turning neither in nor out.
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Feet: Same as forefeet.
Coat
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Texture: Short, smooth, bright, and fine in texture.
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Color:
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Brindle and white
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Seal and white (appears black but shows a red cast in sunlight)
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Black and white
Note: Brindle is preferred if all other qualities are equal.
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Markings (Desirable)
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White muzzle band
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White blaze between the eyes
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White forechest
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White collar
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White feet and legs
Symmetry of markings is important in show dogs.
Gait / Movement
The Boston Terrier moves with a confident, straight, and rhythmic gait. The movement should be agile, with front and rear limbs moving in harmony. No paddling, rolling, or weaving.
Temperament
The Boston Terrier is a friendly, highly intelligent, and enthusiastic breed. It is alert, lively, and affectionate, making it an ideal companion dog. The breed is generally even-tempered and gets along well with children, pets, and strangers when properly socialized.
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Trainability: Very high
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Energy Level: Moderate
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Disposition: Friendly, curious, and charming
Faults
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Any deviation from the breed standard which affects the dog’s function or appearance
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Lack of symmetry in markings (for show purposes)
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Wall eyes (eyes with a blue cast)
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Docked tail
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Snippy or pinched muzzle
Disqualifications
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Solid black, solid brindle, or solid seal without required white markings
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Dudley nose (flesh-colored)
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Blue eyes or eyes of different colors
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Cropped tail
Ideal Owner
Boston Terriers thrive in households that can provide companionship, play, and a moderate amount of exercise. They do well in both apartments and homes and are great with families, singles, and seniors.