Boston Terrier
BAW-stun TAIR-ee-ur
Friendly, Lively, Intelligent, Gentle. Originally bred for companionship (originally bred from fighting dogs, refined into gentlemen's companions).
An adult Boston Terrier weighs 12-25 lbs (male) or 12-25 lbs (female), needs 300-690 calories daily, and lives 11-13 yrs. As a small breed, every calorie and every ounce of body weight matters proportionally more. The breed's primary health watch is brachycephalic airway syndrome. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Boston Terrier needs 300 to 690 calories per day. An average male (18 lbs / 8.4 kg) needs around 480 kcal; a female (18 lbs / 8.4 kg) roughly 480 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Boston Terrier. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Smaller breeds generally live longer than large breeds, and the Boston Terrier benefits from this with a life expectancy of 11-13 yrs. Their compact frames create their own set of vulnerabilities. The breed's primary health concerns are brachycephalic airway syndrome and patellar luxation, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; 30-60 minutes daily. Their flat face limits intense exercise, especially in heat or humidity. Short walks and indoor play are ideal. Watch for signs of respiratory distress during activity. As a sporting breed, the Boston Terrier was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive.
Care and traits
Boston Terriers have a short, smooth, tuxedo-patterned coat. Origin: United States (Boston, Massachusetts).
Known as the 'American Gentleman' for their tuxedo markings. Their brachycephalic structure means they overheat easily, snore loudly, and can't swim well. Many Boston Terriers require cesarean sections for birth due to the puppies' large heads relative to the mother's pelvis.
Grooming needs are minimal. A weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils is sufficient for most Boston Terriers. Bathing is only needed when the dog is noticeably dirty or smelly.
Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, but they still need daily outdoor exposure and socialization. Small dogs are vulnerable to injury from rough handling, falls from furniture, and confrontations with larger animals. Supervision around young children is essential.
Tools for Boston Terrier owners
Frequently asked questions
Plan for 300 to 690 calories per day for an adult Boston Terrier. A 18-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Portion control is especially important because even small calorie surpluses add up quickly on a compact frame. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
The Boston Terrier standard is 12-25 lbs (5.4–11.3 kg) for both males and females.4–11.3 kg). Small dogs hide extra weight under their coat. Pick them up regularly and feel for rib coverage as your most reliable body condition check. Check body condition by feeling the ribs (they should be easy to find), viewing from above (waist should narrow behind the ribs), and from the side (abdomen should tuck up behind the ribcage).
The top health priority for Boston Terrier owners is awareness of brachycephalic airway syndrome. Talk to your vet about screening options and early detection strategies for brachycephalic airway syndrome. Other conditions seen in the breed include patellar luxation, cataracts, cherry eye. Regular vet visits with breed-specific screening catch problems when they are most treatable.
Most Boston Terriers are content with 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. Good activities for this breed include moderate walks, play sessions, training games. Indoor play and training sessions count as legitimate exercise for dogs this size. While not as demanding as high-energy breeds, a Boston Terrier that gets no exercise will gain weight and may develop behavioral issues.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026