Anyone have a Boston Terrier in their life?

[GenerousGardener]

Just that really. We are thinking of getting one. We’ve always had Boxers, but we need a smaller dog in our life now. I’ve read that they are really good with children, with 8 grandchildren visiting we need a companion that loves children.

Do you have a BT? Pros and cons please.
TIA

My friend has one. Prone to health issues. Stubborn too.

@Wolfiefan that doesn’t sound good.

Many breeds are prone to various health issues. But the shape of their heads cause issues. Fun and energetic little dog though.

I do, he's a wonderful dog and is brilliant with my children. He's patient, energetic to play with but chilled at home. He is 9 now and struggling a little with eyes and fur loss but generally a healthy boy and just the loveliest dog I could wish for. Also loves socialising with other dogs too but is perhaps a bit over friendly at times /doesn't take a hint when others aren't as eager to say hi!

Be mindful of the fact that they are a brachycephalic breed so prone to breathing problems - I have seen a few that really struggle with this and it's awful to see (and very expensive I'd imagine).

www.ukbostonterrierrescue.co.uk - a wonderful org for adopting who I'd thoroughly recommend.

@rubyroma This is heartening to hear. Having had boxers all my life I'm used to the problems that short nosed breeds bring. I don't think I've had one boxer that didn't have health issues, be it, eyes, skin, teeth, and digestive problems. One of my dogs snored like a trooper and you could hear it in every room!

I think we have room in our life for a Boston. I'll start looking after our holiday in May. I've already contacted Boston Rescue.

Someone I know had one, they called it a Boston Terrorist. Stubborn and independent apparently. I've always liked a dog with character though.

If you’re really interested contact the breed club for advice and help with breeders.

I have three! Delilah, Scout and Bella.

Only Delilah has had health issues - luxating patella, which needed surgery, and an ear haematoma.

The other two are healthy little tanks!

They’re hilarious, loyal, energetic, loving, characterful little clowns, and I adore them. The only downside is that they’re addictive 😃

@LunaNorth oh they are gorgeous. I think I'm sold on them. I'll be looking for one very soon.

Can I ask what you feed them on? Every single boxer I've ever owned had digestive and allergy issues, so they always had to have a special diet b

I've seen a few at agility shows doing really well

My cousin has 2. Between them they’ve cost a fortune in vets fees.

Delilah has allergies, so she’s on hypoallergenic food.

The other two have Butternut Box, because they’re spoilt 😃

A friend of mine has one.

She's had multiple eye injuries due to her skull shape, her teeth are in poor condition and she struggles in the heat.

She has a lovely nature but she doesn't look or sound very healthy, which is sad, really.

I have two! No health issues and can walk 15km no problem.

So much fun, inquisitive, affectionate, bouncy and very very farty.

I had a Boston rescue. She was such a little personality,very stubborn,super loving. She was prone to eye ulcers because of her bulgy eyes so cost a lot in vet bills. I would have another in a heart beat if I could afford it

Why not look for a dog which has a greater chance of living a healthy, happy life @GenerousGardener ?

They are a lovely breed temperamentally that has been ruined conformationally by unethical breeders. Sadly, probably beyond repair. Almost all litters are delivered via Caesarean, they have breathing problems, eye problems and skin problems, luxating patellae etc.

If you decide to get one, please rescue instead of buying a puppy and encouraging their breeding to continue.

There are a couple near us. Lovely social little dogs but my word, the breathing.

If you could find one with a longer muzzle, that would be so much better for the dog.

No, but we have a friend that loves them and has 3, and has had Bostons for years. She may be unlucky, but they don’t seem to live very long.

I agree with @FindusMakesPancakes . Most bull breeds are ruined by unethical breed standards.
However, if your heart is set on one and you are generally looking into this type of dog, I'd suggest a Leavitt Bulldog.

https://leavittbulldogassociation.com/