Boston Terrier Dog Registration

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.

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Size

• Weight Categories:

  • Under 15 lbs (7 kg)

  • 15 to under 20 lbs (7–9 kg)

  • 20 to not exceeding 25 lbs (9–11.3 kg)

• Height: Approximately 15–17 inches at the shoulder

Balance and proportion are more important than specific weight or height.

Head

• Skull: Square, flat on top, free from wrinkles.

• Stop: Well-defined.

• Eyes: Large, round, dark, and set wide apart. Positioned squarely in the skull. Expression is alert and kind.

• 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.

• Muzzle: Short, square, wide, and deep. Free from wrinkles.

• Nose: Black and wide, with well-defined line between the nostrils.

• Bite: Even or slightly undershot. The jaw is broad and square.

Neck, Topline, and Body

• Neck: Slightly arched, carrying the head gracefully and blending smoothly into the shoulders.

• Topline: Level and straight.

• Body: Short and well-knit, giving the impression of strength and activity.

• Chest: Deep and broad with well-sprung ribs.

• Back: Short, maintaining a square build.

• Tail: Set low, short, fine, and tapering. It may be straight or screw-shaped but not carried above the horizontal.

Forequarters

• Shoulders: Sloping and well-laid back.

• Forelegs: Straight, set moderately apart, and well-muscled. Elbows neither in nor out.

• Feet: Small, round, and compact, with well-arched toes.

Hindquarters

• Thighs: Strong and muscular.

• Stifles: Well bent.

• Hocks: Short to the ground, turning neither in nor out.

• Feet: Same as forefeet.

Coat

• Texture: Short, smooth, bright, and fine in texture.

• Color:

  • Brindle and white

  • Seal and white (appears black but shows a red cast in sunlight)

  • Black and white
    Note: Brindle is preferred if all other qualities are equal.

Markings (Desirable)

• White muzzle band

• White blaze between the eyes

• White forechest

• White collar

• 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.

• Trainability: Very high

• Energy Level: Moderate

• Disposition: Friendly, curious, and charming

Faults

• Any deviation from the breed standard which affects the dog’s function or appearance

• Lack of symmetry in markings (for show purposes)

• Wall eyes (eyes with a blue cast)

• Docked tail

• Snippy or pinched muzzle

Disqualifications

• Solid black, solid brindle, or solid seal without required white markings

• Dudley nose (flesh-colored)

• Blue eyes or eyes of different colors

• 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.