History of the Breed

A Little Boston Terrier History

Following the Civil War, the Boston Terrier breed was developed in the stables of Boston, Massachusetts, as a fighting dog. He was bred from crosses between the English Bulldog, English White Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, French Bulldog and other dogs. The original "Boston Terrier" did not look like what we are familar with today. They were larger and could be seen in many colors. Ears may or may not have been erect and some had long tails. But these dogs were very intelligent and showed the best features of it's parent breeds. And through the process of selective breeding the boston became what we know of today.
In 1893 the Boston Terrier breed received its first recognition when 75 Bostons were approved for the admission into the stud book of the American Kennel Club (AKC). Following recognition, the breed developed rapidly and Boston Terriers soon found a placein homes and hearts all across America.
For the 1st half of the 20th Century, the Boston Terrier was the leading choice of pet owners across the United States ad accounted for the largest number of AKC registrations of any breed. AKC says, "Part of the breed's success was due to it's American origins; unlike many breeds whose programs relied on imports from Europe, the Boston's population did not increase during the World Wars, when shipping was difficult. But mostly, the Boston was and it popular because it is, to put it simply, a great little dog and an easy keeper." This article also says, "Bostons are usually described as near-perfect companions; friendly,affectionate,gentle with children and other animals, playful, comical,lively and intelligent, clean and easy to train. Bostons live for their owners; they are eager to please and prefer to be right by their owner's side at all times."