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| When you think of a Boston Terrier you probably think of his unmistakable pug nose and pointy ears, his one-of-a-kind black-and-white tuxedo of a coat, or his endearing snorts and wheezes that trumpet his approach. Bostons pack a lot of personality in their small 15-pound bodies. It's no wonder that you are interested in this dapper little breed! Before you invite a Boston to share your life, however, you should know a little bit about what makes these dogs tick. LOVERS, NOT FIGHTERS Boston Terriers have earned the nickname "The American Gentleman" for good reason: They're intelligent, affectionate, classy dogs who make excellent companions. With their amiable demeanor, it's hard to believe that their ancestors were originally bred to be fighters! Today, Boston Terriers have made themselves at home in a range of households, from small apartments to large farms and every thing in between. Though they retain hints of their terrier and bulldog ancestry, Bostons are unique, well-mannered dogs who bring joy to just about any home. PERSONALITY PLUS ***Good With Older Children: Most Bostons adore children when the children are respectful and are taught how to behave around a dog. Bostons and kids usually become fast friends, with the dogs often enduring appropriate wrestling matches and playing dress-up without a hitch. However, Bostons, as with most dogs, do not always get along with very small children because they are not yet old enough to understand how to appropriately play or behave around a dog. For this reason, it is MBTR's policy not to adopt to families with children under the age of 5 years. However, we do make this decision on a case by case basis but do be aware that this is an important issue with us. ***Good With Adults: Integrating well into almost any household, Bostons make attentive companions for adults and seniors too. Some Bostons, with proper training, become good therapy dogs, well-behaved pups who travel to nursing homes and hospitals to bring joy and companionship to patients. ***They're Easy to Care For: A definite perk, Boston Terriers are simple to maintain. They have short coats that can be easily washed and brushed. And they are very intelligent, taking to house training and obedience training quickly. ***They're a Relatively Healthy Breed: Though they might encounter some difficulties stemming from their shortened snout, Boston Terriers are healthy dogs. They often live up to 12 years, and very often reaching their 15th birthdays. So when you are considering a Boston, do understand and be prepared to care for him/her for the duration of their life. ***They Fit into Just About Any Home: Bostons are the perfect size for apartments, large houses, townhouses, or single-family homes. Because they don't require a huge yard, Bostons make wonderful house pets. Bostons do love to play and it is important that you do provide them with adequate exercise and enough room in a yard or dog park to run off some of their energy. Bostons enjoy getting "out and about" just as we do. ***They're Addictive: Once you get one, you just can't stop, or so may Boston owners attest. Prepare to add a second Boston to your household shortly after your first. You just won't be able to help yourself! Some Boston Needs: Give Me Shelter ---- And Food! Like any pet, Boston Terriers require nutritious food, clean water, shelter, stimulation, and lots of love in order to thrive. Because they are considered small dogs, Bostons do not eat as much as their giant breed cousins who can gulp down as much as 5 cups of chow a day. Because Bostons eat less, quality matters. You need to provide a delicious diet that meets his nutritional needs, which includes easily digestible protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Luckily, stores like Petsmart and Petco, as well as veterinarian offices, provide more variety than ever before and you're sure to be able to find a formula that you and your dog are happy with. Avoid "cheap" dog foods at discount stores. These foods often contain artificial additives and fillers which can upset your dog's digestive system and does not provide the nutrients he needs to keep him healthy. Just like you, your Boston needs his own space --- a safe, comfortable environment to call home. That home includes his own crate or kennel, and his larger home ---- yours! Dogs are denning animals, which means they like to have an enclosed "cave" where they can feel safe and secure. Their "den" is where they can retreat to sleep, take a nap, or just enjoy some private time with their favorite toy. A crate or kennel makes a perfect den for your Boston to retreat to when he wants a little "me" time. Crates are also a tool which can help you house train your Boston. Time for FUN! Your Boston also needs some things to keep his little mind stimulated. From balls and toys to interactive games and playtime with you, you can offer your curious Boston all sorts of diversions. Bostons in Toyland - Toys and games for your Boston include squeaky toys, plush animals, bouncy balls, and treat dispensing Kongs. Your Boston will choose his favorite and adopt it as his own. Get Out and Play - With their ceaseless energy, Bostons love to get out and explore. Here are some fun things you can do with your dog: ** Take a Walk **Visit Your Local Dog Park **Play a Game of Fetch **Get Involved in Organized Sports such as Agility or Flyball **Gather Your Dog-owning Friends and Plan a Party or Dog Social Be a Good Boy or Girl: Besides providing food, shelter, and toys for your dog, you also want to train him/her to be a well-behaved member of society. Socializing your Boston is when you teach him to interact with his world. He needs to experience as many sights and sounds as possible. He needs to meet many different people and be introduced to many different situations. When you teach him these things, he'll be on track to becoming a well-mannered pooch. Listening and Obeying: Obedience is more than teaching your dog fun parlor tricks. Obedience is when your dog learns to obey commands like "come" or "stay" ----- edicts that may be very important if he is in a life-or-death situation, like if he slips his collar and leash and is running into oncoming traffic! When teaching your Boston basic commands, always use positive reinforcement rather than negative correction techniques. Caring for Your Boston's Needs: To keep your Boston healthy and happy until his 15th Birthday, (or longer!), you need to care for his medical needs. This includes establishing a good relationship with your veterinarian, keeping a canine first-aide kit handy, and being well-aware of your dog's unique medical needs, as well as how those needs changes as he ages. ************************************************************************************************ Are you ready to accept all these responsibilities? Does a Boston Terrier still sound like the kind of dog for you? If so, and you would like to add one of these great little dogs to your family, please take a look at the dogs that we currently have available for adoption and contact us for more information or fill out an adoption application and submit it to us along with your application fee. Your new best friend is anxiously waiting to meet you! |
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