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Do Boston Terriers Bark A Lot? Breed Temperament & Characteristics

Cheryl Regan

By Cheryl Regan

Boston Terrier posing in garden

Like humans, dogs have their own individual personalities. While some may be relaxed and quiet, others are vocal by nature. That said, some breeds are known for being yappier than others. Boston Terriers usually have a quiet temperament—they tend to bark less than other terriers. But that doesn’t mean that every dog in the breed will behave in the same way, as some Boston Terriers do bark a lot.1

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Why Do Some Dogs Bark More Than Others?

Several factors contribute to how much a dog barks compared to others. One of the main factors is its breed. A dog’s ancestry will determine what it was originally bred to do, and the behavioral characteristics that it would have needed to achieve its purpose.

For example, Terriers were originally bred for hunting vermin, and hunting dogs tend to bark more—usually to alert the rest of their pack of intruders or prey, calling them to defend their territory together.2 Studies show that dogs also have slightly different vocalizations depending on the type of prey they encounter.3

woman holding her boston terrier
Image Credit: Zoran Pucarevic, Shutterstock

What Were Boston Terriers Bred For?

Despite their name, Boston Terriers are not actually considered to be in the same category (or group of breeds) known as terriers—which the American Kennel Club describes as dogs that were “bred to hunt, kill vermin, and to guard their families’ home or barn.”4

The AKC categorizes Boston Terriers in the ‘Non-Sporting Group’ instead.5 Originating in the United States, Boston Terriers are the descendants of bulldog-type and terrier dogs that over the years have been bred down in size to what they are today. As such, they don’t have the same hunting instincts as their long-distant cousins—terriers—and therefore, do not feel the need to bark or vocalize as much.

What Are Boston Terriers Known For?

Boston Terriers are compact little dogs with large personalities. Their black and white “tuxedo coat” has earned them the moniker of the “American Gentleman.” These world-class companions are highly intelligent and often eager to please their humans—though they may display a “streak of stubbornness” at times.6

Boston Terriers love to play, be it with a frisbee or a ball, though they’d also be content with a brisk walk around the block. They’re not as excitable as dogs in the terrier group, so you can count on them to remain fairly calm and dignified in the home—though be aware, every dog has its own individual personality, and there will always be exceptions to every rule!

boston terrier playing
Image Credit: Tasha Karidis, Shutterstock

Are Boston Terriers Hard to Train?

Although they can sometimes display a little stubbornness, Boston Terriers are considered to be easy to train. This is because they are highly intelligent and very eager to please. Consistent reward-based training works best, while negative reinforcement, such as eye contact and shouting “no!” is likely to bring out a Boston Terrier’s defiant side!

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Caring for a Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are considered to be low-maintenance dogs. They have a short coat, which only requires brushing around once a week, and an affectionate personality making them ideal for families and homes with other pets. Here are a few tips for caring for your Boston Terrier!

Hot Weather

Due to their flat-nosed features, Boston Terriers do not tolerate hot and humid weather conditions very well, so make sure you give them plenty of water and keep them in the shade on hot days.


Daily Exercise

Although they’re not usually hyperactive, Boston Terriers do have plenty of energy. They’ll need around one hour of exercise each day, be it a walk around the neighborhood or a game of frisbee at the park!


Separation Anxiety

Boston Terriers are highly affectionate and sociable dogs. As such, they are prone to separation anxiety and are most suited to homes where someone is present most of the time.

boston terrier
Image Credit: JStaley401, Shutterstock

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Conclusion

Dogs bark because they’re usually trying to communicate with us! Boston Terriers tend to be less vocal than some breeds, but if they’re excited or worried about something, they’ll let you know. Overall, Boston Terriers are intelligent, affectionate, and playful dogs that crave companionship.


Featured Image Credit: Ruben PH, Shutterstock

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