We’ve had our Boston Terrier for 5 years and it’s been the best time. Raising her from a puppy has given us so many experiences. Knowing her temperament and personality, it’s hard to assimilate that with her breed’s history.
Boston terriers were first bred to be fighters, watchdogs, and vermin hunters. They were much larger and more muscular to assist in the fighting. Their agility and cleverness allowed them to be superior at hunting rodents.
If you’re interested in learning more about the original history of Boston Terriers, you should read on. We are going to discuss the different aspects of their origins, including the first dog of the breed, previous tasks they performed, and how they became what they are today.
What Were Boston Terriers Bred For?
The common belief is that Boston Terriers were bred to be fighters and vermin killers. It is also likely that they were bred as small breed dogs to accommodate city living or life on country estates. It was an appealing trait for the Boston wealthy in the 1800s.
The Boston Terrier Breed as Hunters
In the 1800s, bloodsports were common and popular in England, leading to the crossbreeding of bull-type dogs and terriers. Among these dogs was one named Judge, who was a cross between a Bulldog and a White English Terrier, which is now extinct.
Judge was a deep brindle with white markings on his square head. While his appearance was reminiscent of today’s Boston Terrier, his type was bred and trained for dog fighting.
This older version of the Boston Terrier had a much larger and more muscular frame that allowed them to take out the competition in the ring. Additionally, their temperament was aggressive, unlike the sweet, loving nature of today’s Boston Terrier.
The Boston Terrier as Watchdogs
Wealthy families sought watchdogs that could guard their homes or stables at night. Long-coated dogs were not an option because of the chance they would bring mud in, getting it on the carpeting and the furniture.
The original Boston Terriers were found to be excellent candidates, meeting both of these needs. Additionally, they were able to follow on horseback rides and be trained to not wander from home.
Due to not barking often, the homeowners would know that there was danger if they heard their Boston Terrier barking.
The Boston Terrier Breed as Rat Hunters
Due to having small bodies, high energy, and agility, Boston Terriers were able to quickly dig a hole and capture rodents. Their short legs allowed them to easily catch vermin from the ground while running.
Boston Terriers are clever, can create strategies, and love pleasing their owners, which makes them excellent working dogs. Their sense of smell is also amazing, which allowed them to scent their prey even as it moved.
The American Gentleman
Today, the Boston Terrier is an AKC-recognized dog breed and is characterized as a non-sporting dog. They are recognized by their small, muscular frame and black and white coat. Because their coat resembles a tuxedo, they are dubbed the American Gentleman.
They are also known for having gentle, even-tempered personalities. This is in complete contrast to their ancestors.
The Boston Terrier’s short muzzle, coloration, and round eyes clearly link back to their Bulldog ancestry. Other branches of the family tree lend them their mischief and energy.
Companion Dogs
Because of their popularity, it was soon realized that Boston Terriers would make excellent companion dogs. They offer versatility, loyalty, and attentiveness, making them perfect to take a place in the home.
They can easily adapt to their living environment, enabling them to live in grand estates or city apartments. They easily adjust to home living with the right food and plenty of toys.
Lap Dogs
Boston Terriers make excellent lap dogs because of their size and temperaments. They will easily fit in your lap and they behave very well around humans.
Competition Dogs
This breed is known for being clever and eager while maintaining a higher level of energy. Boston Terriers can use this to perform well in and win dog show competitions. While dogfighting is long over, they still excel at athletic competitions.
Service Animals
Because of their sensitivity to a human’s voice and feelings, Boston Terriers make excellent therapy dogs. They are great with both children and senior citizens, and are able to adjust their energy levels based on who they are dealing with.
They can work as service dogs as well. They are easily trained and have a protective nature. Due to their vigilance and discipline, they can stay completely focused on their tasks even if they are in public spaces.
The Boston Terrier’s History
In Liverpool, England around the 1860s, a dog named Judge was bred from a Bulldog and a White English Terrier, which is now an extinct breed. Judge was purchased and brought to Boston.
While there are many different stories about the origins of the breed, they all agree that Judge is the original dog of the breed. Judge was bred only a single time, resulting in one male puppy who was widely bred.
It was from this foundation that future breeders shaped the Boston Terrier into what it is known as today.
How They Got Their Name
Originally, they were not called Boston Terriers. They had many different monikers, including round heads, bullet heads, American terriers, bull terriers, and Boston Bulldogs. They didn’t take on the name Boston Terrier until 1889.
A Dog for the Ladies
While England’s Bull Terrier was being bred as a gentleman’s companion, the Boston Terrier was bred to have a smaller size, having a sweeter expression with full eyes and a curved skull. This breed was an instant favorite with the ladies.
The breed became recognized by the AKC in 1893 and then in the early 20th century, breeders began the arguments over what coloring should be accepted.
Eventually, they settled on black, seal, and brindle colors with mandatory white markings on the face and chest.
Conclusion
Today’s Boston Terrier is a sweet, lovable companion animal. They make great housepets and can adapt to any living situation, provided you take proper care of them. How they are today is a far cry from what they were originally bred to be.
The original Boston Terrier was a fighting dog, bred to be strong and aggressive. In addition to this, the breed was also used to be watchdogs and vermin hunters. Because of their high level of intelligence, they were able to quickly catch prey.
Over the years, the breed has transformed into the American Gentleman, with its tuxedo-like coat and charming personality. The Boston Terrier is now one of the most beloved small-breed dogs in the country, loved for their cute faces, small build, and devotion.