Learning about the History and Origin of the Boston Terrier

In around 1870, a man named Robert C. Hooper bought a dog known today as Hooper’s Judge. He purchased the dog in Boston, and it was a mix between an English whiter terrier and an English bulldog. Then, this dog, which weighed approximately 30 pounds, was bred with a smaller dog. This smaller dog was then bred with another smaller female. Next, the offspring was bred with French bulldogs to produce what is today the Boston terrier.

Originally, these dogs were originally the size of pit-bulls and other fighting-types of terriers. They could weigh as much as 44 pounds and were divided into lightweight, middleweight and heavyweight classifications. In 1889, the breed was very popular and was being called a Bull terrier. Many lovers of this dog did not like this name at all. There was even an American Bull Terrier Club that was formed. Another name which had been used was roundheads, but this did not suit the people either. According to history, the breed was then named for its birthplace; Boston terrier.

The Boston terrier was the first American breed to gain recognition in the American Kennel Club in 1893. At first these dogs were bred to be fighting dogs, yet they were eventually bred to be companions, making them the first non-sporting dogs bred in America.

The Boston terrier: A Popular Breed In History

In the 1900's, the owners and members of the kennel clubs began looking at the colors of the Boston terriers. These were eventually written into the codes as standards, and certain colorations were desired. The Boston terriers has adapted to a more people-centered environment than other terriers, yet may still strike out if they feel their territory is being incurred upon. During the 1920's, the Boston terrier saw their greatest years of popularity in America.

With the rich history of this breed in America, it is easy to see why this pet is so beloved and well-known to so many. Because of its well-mannered disposition, it has often been called an “American Gentleman.” Several of the Oz Books featured Toto as a Boston terrier. The state legislature of Massachusetts named the Boston terrier their state dog in 1979 and is also their college mascot. The temperament of the Boston terrier is another key factor contributing to its overwhelming popularity. Their track-record with owners is shining when it comes to the easy-going, temperament of the Boston terrier.

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