Are Boston Terriers Hyper or Chill


For over a decade, our family has nurtured Boston Terriers, constantly curious about their energy levels and often addressing the question, ‘Are Boston Terriers hyper?

Boston Terriers are not by nature a hyper breed and are considered to be medium-energy dogs. They can have bouts of hyperactivity that release their pent-up energy but these can be easily managed by providing physical and mental stimulation, toys, and a routine.

Are you considering getting a Boston Terrier but want to know more about their energy levels? Then you need to read on to find out how energetic they are, how they release their energy, and what you can do to manage it.

Discovering the ‘Zoomies’: A Hilarious Introduction to Our Boston Terrier’s Energy

Bringing home our new Boston Terrier was an adventure that taught us the true meaning of the word ‘zoomies’. We’d always heard the phrase, but it wasn’t until that day we truly understood it.

Our journey began with excitement and a bit of nervous anticipation. As we introduced our new furry friend to her forever home, she sniffed around curiously, her tail wagging a mile a minute. But then, something extraordinary happened. It was as if a switch had been flipped. One moment she was calmly exploring, and the next, she was a whirlwind of energy!

She darted from room to room with a comic level of enthusiasm, her little legs blurring beneath her. She zipped under the sofa, bounced off the walls, and did victory laps around the coffee table. We stood there, mouths agape, as our serene home transformed into a racetrack.

It was in that hilarious, slightly chaotic moment we thought, ‘Ah, so this is what they mean when they ask, ‘Are Boston Terriers hyper?’ The term ‘zoomies’ suddenly made perfect sense. She was the embodiment of boundless energy, her excitement infectious and her speed astonishing.

Every time she paused for a breath, we thought the show was over, but she was just gearing up for another round. Furniture became hurdles, and we became spectators in our living room turned agility course.

Through laughter and slight bewilderment, we realized our lives were going to be a lot more energetic and a lot more entertaining. Our Boston Terrier might not be ‘hyper’ in the traditional sense, but she definitely brought a new level of liveliness to our home. And yes, she eventually did settle down for some cuddles, but only after setting the household record for the most enthusiastic ‘zoomies’ we’d ever seen!

Are Boston Terriers Hyper?

In the debate of ‘are Boston Terriers hyper,’ it’s important to understand that while they’re generally medium-energy dogs, Boston Terriers do exhibit occasional bursts of energy. They are more interested in cuddling and laying around the house in sunny spots than running around all day long.

While they are not a particularly hyper breed, they can be quite energetic. This is especially true when they are younger. Their playfulness and sociability will be exemplified through short bursts of energy. 

Pent-up energy can quickly turn into bouts of hyperactivity because of conditioned behavior, breed characteristics, and lack of physical and mental stimulation. 

Why Do Boston Terriers Have So Much Energy?

There is a major difference between being hyper and having energy. The definition of being hyper means having a higher state of activity while being energetic is the act of having or exerting energy.

Hyperactivity is actually a rare condition for dogs, including Boston Terriers. To be in this state, your dog would need to have the majority or all of the following symptoms:

  • Resting heart and respiratory rates are increased
  • Inability to adjust to common stimuli such as noises in the home
  • Agitation
  • Reactivity
  • Increased emotions with an inability to calm down
  • Calming response to amphetamines

Boston Terriers will have an innate curiosity when they begin to develop hearing, muscles, and bone mass. This is when they become explorers, investigating and trying things.

During their growing phases, they’ll possess bursts of energy that they will use when they are running or playing. They may also develop a stubborn streak in which they do not listen to commands. Make sure you keep things out of their way for their safety as they run around.

Boston Terriers are energetic and intelligent. They will use this to their advantage to get your attention by performing tricks they know. 

Jojo the Boston Terrier licking his lips

Boston Terriers’ Methods of Releasing Energy

Boston Terriers’ favorite method of releasing energy is by playing and running around. They also really enjoy chewing so it’s best to keep them supplied with many available chew toys. 

Take them on walks and allow them to explore the yard to help them deal with their need to explore and be active. 

Addressing the query ‘are Boston Terriers hyper,’ it’s noteworthy that younger Boston Terriers often experience frenetic random activity periods, known as zoomies. They will seem hyperactive during these periods and will run around, jump on the furniture, and bark for apparently no reason.

Whenever your dog does this, let them burn up their excess energy but ensure that the environment is a safe place in which to do it. You don’t want any accidents.

How Do You Handle a Boston Terrier with High Energy?

Having to handle a Boston Terrier with high energy levels can be tough, but it’s not a brick wall that you can’t get past. Follow these suggestions when your Boston Terrier’s energy is through the roof.

Exercise

Make sure you provide enough exercise for your Boston Terrier. They will need plenty of opportunities to burn off that extra energy. Some ideas you can use are:

  • Taking them for many walks
  • Playing tug-of-war
  • Playing fetch
  • Letting them have their run of the backyard

Provide a Variety of Toys

Make sure your Boston Terrier has a wide variety of toys to choose from. This will provide them with much-needed mental stimulation. Additionally, it’s a great way to keep them busy and far from trouble.

Since they like to chew so much, offering chew toys is a great way to burn off some of their energy. They also like Kong toys and balls.

Provide Your Boston Terrier with a Routine

Your Boston Terrier will thrive if you place them on a routine. Make sure it includes exercise, feeding times, and play times. This allows your dog to know what and when to expect things day in and day out, keeping them calm, cool, and collected.

Dogs can become more active while they are trying to figure out what’s going on when they don’t have a routine. On the other hand, a routine lets them know that everything is going to be OK and that they can relax.

Ensure You Are Providing Enough Mental Stimulation

Boston Terriers who don’t get enough mental stimulation get bored. Bored minds wander, leading your dog into trouble. They will seek out distractions through energetic behavior.

If you provide enough positive mental stimulation, you will tire your pup out, resulting in less energetic behavior. Some suggestions are:

  • Teaching them how to do new tricks
  • Playing games with them like hide and seek
  • Having them follow you and watch as you do some DIY projects

How to Tell if Your Boston Terrier Is Experiencing Hyperactivity

Although Boston Terriers are not prone to hyperactivity, they can, like all dogs, exhibit bouts of hyperactive behavior. You’ll need to watch for typical signs of this behavior that include:

  • Excessively barking or whining
  • Not barking at all
  • Pacing
  • Jumping up on people in an attempt to garner attention
  • Not able to adjust to the situation
  • Heart rate is increased
  • Chewing is more frequent than normal

If your dog is displaying any of these signs, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out anything more serious so that you can address the behavior. 

Boston Terrier waiting to come into the room

Frequently Asked Questions About Boston Terriers’ Energy Levels

Are Boston Terriers Hyper? Boston Terriers are not typically hyper, but they do have medium energy levels. They are known for their occasional bursts of high energy, often displayed in playful zoomies.

How Much Exercise Do Boston Terriers Need? Boston Terriers require regular exercise but don’t need extensive physical activity. A couple of short to moderate walks daily, along with some playtime, usually suffice.

Do Boston Terriers Calm Down with Age? Yes, like many dog breeds, Boston Terriers tend to become calmer as they age. While they maintain a playful demeanor, their energy levels usually decrease as they grow older.

Can Boston Terriers Be Left Alone? Boston Terriers can be left alone for short periods, but due to their social nature, they thrive on companionship and may become anxious if left alone for too long.

What Are the Best Ways to Manage a Boston Terrier’s Energy? Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training are key. Providing toys and engaging in interactive play can also help manage their energy levels.

What Activities Do Boston Terriers Enjoy? Boston Terriers enjoy a variety of activities, from brisk walks and fetch games to agility training and interactive puzzle toys. They love activities that engage both their body and mind.

Are Boston Terriers Good with Children? Yes, Boston Terriers generally do well with children. They are playful and gentle, but as with any breed, interactions should always be supervised, especially with younger children.

Do Boston Terriers Need a Lot of Attention? Boston Terriers are affectionate and enjoy being part of family activities. They do need regular interaction and attention to stay happy and healthy.

How Do Boston Terriers Behave When They Are Hyper? When Boston Terriers get hyper, they may exhibit zoomies – running around wildly, playing enthusiastically, and showing bursts of energy. This behavior is often short-lived and followed by periods of rest.

Is It Normal for Boston Terriers to Have Sudden Bursts of Energy? Yes, it’s normal for Boston Terriers to have sudden bursts of energy, especially when they are young. These spurts are a healthy way for them to release pent-up energy.

Conclusion

While they are some of the most loving dogs you can own, Boston Terriers can get on the more energetic side. You have to be prepared to handle this if you want to bring one into your family. Fortunately, with the right care and attention, you can have a well-mannered dog.

Boston Terriers, while not naturally hyper dogs, can be high-energy. If they are not provided enough mental and physical stimulation, they will have pent-up energy that will eventually find its way out through the zoomies. 

As long as you provide the mental and physical stimulation that your dog needs, they will have an outlet for their energy and be less likely to have bouts of hyperactivity. You will need to ensure they have what they need to prevent them from becoming overexcited.

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