How to choose the right dog breed: The Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a cross between the Bulldog and the English Terrier, but it is distinctive in its own right. Its confirmation, which is also quite distinctive, strongly appeals to some people. On reactivity the Boston Terrier is similar to other terriers, but prospective owners may find that its higher rank for demand of affection makes it more attractive. To its credit as a possible family breed, the reactivity factor on which it ranks lowest is snapping at children.

On overall aggressive traits the Boston Terrier excels in watchdog barking, and it ranks only medium on its tendency to exert dominance over its owner. If property protection is a strong priority, you might look for a breed with a higher rank on territorial defense, but at least you can count on the Boston Terrier's having a watchdog sound. Consider boosting the potential for territorial defense by choosing a male. With its medium rank on trainability traits, the Boston Terrier rates higher than average for terriers as a whole.

Among alternative breeds, the tiny Maltese is unusual for its midrange ranking in aggressive traits and its receptivity to training is similar to that of the Boston Terrier. Or you might nudge up each factor a bit by considering the Silky terrier. If you can live the high reactivity and aggressive traits, you can select from a large group of the smaller dogs that have great variety in coat color and conformation in other terrier breeds.

The Boston Terrier:

Weight: 19 lbs
Height: 14 in.
Build: Very light
Coat: Smooth, glossy.
Color: Black with white.

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