Boston Terriers NZ - Devine & Rossdhu Boston Terriers NZ

03/03/2025

Tuesday's Points to Ponder 🧐🐾
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The Boston Terrier: Let’s Define ‘Moderation’ 🤔🐶
The Boston Terrier is a breed with a rich history and a well-defined standard that must be upheld with integrity. Recently, I came across a discussion regarding the Boston Terrier being considered a "moderate" breed. However, after reviewing the USA & NZ Breed Standard, the only mention of moderation is under forelegs – 'set moderately wide apart.'

📖 What the standard does provide are clear guidelines on structure and proportion, which, if followed correctly, ensure the breed maintains its unique type and soundness.

The Importance of Structure 🏗️
One crucial aspect of the Boston Terrier’s conformation is its front assembly. The standard specifies sloping, well-laid-back shoulders, which are essential for proper movement and balance. 🏃‍♂️💨

⚖️ Balance is Key! The correct layback of the shoulders allows for efficient movement, contributing to the breed's agility and elegance.

Hindquarters & Movement 🚶‍♂️➡️🐕
Hindquarter angulation is another vital feature of the Boston Terrier to balance the front and ensure a sound dog. The standard describes the hindquarters as well-muscled and bent at the stifles.

🔹 A lack of angulation - which the standard considers a fault ❌ - in the rear results in inefficient movement.
🔹 Over the years, we've observed that better hind angulation also leads to stronger patellas, while straight-stifled dogs often record undesirable patella scores.

✅ A Boston Terrier must have good angulation behind to support correct function, overall balance, and long-term health.

The Body: More than Just a Pretty Face! 🐶❤️
The Boston Terrier's body is described as deep and of good width, further disproving the idea that it should resemble a traditional terrier.

💡 Terriers are built for their specific tasks, but, although originally down from breeds bred for fighting and rodent hunting, the Boston Terrier has a different purpose in the modern breed standard.

Concerning Trends We Are Seeing ⚠️
🚨 Some Boston Terriers presented online today show:
❌ Upright fronts with little to no pastern
❌ Straight stifles
❌ Poorly defined hocks

These structural flaws compromise correct movement, function, and health. While the Boston Terrier is undeniably a head breed—meaning head type plays a significant role—it does not move on its head! 🚫👀

We must remain vigilant in evaluating entire body structure, not just focusing on markings or head type.

Preserving the Breed’s Integrity 🏆
As breeders, judges, and enthusiasts, it is our responsibility to uphold the breed standard without compromise.

✅ A well-marked Boston with a beautiful head is only part of the equation!
✅ Correct structure and movement are equally critical for a long-lasting, healthy breed.

By staying true to the standard, we ensure the Boston Terrier remains a sound, well-balanced, and functional breed for generations to come. 🏅🐶

Final Thoughts 💭
These are simply our observations after breeding the Boston Terrier for over 50 years. 🏅 We understand that different experiences may lead to different perspectives, but we can only speak from our own knowledge and history with the breed.

📸 Below are photos of different body styles for you to review and compare against the breed standard.

What are your thoughts? Drop a comment below! 👇💬

03/03/2025

NZ Boston Terrier breeders and owners. Help protect the future of our Boston Terrier breed. Book in and lock in the date!

02/03/2025

Fabulous critique for our Evie at the Dogs NZ FCI show this weekend under Lois Wilson (UK)
Evie won Best of Breed, CACIB and went on to win Group 2nd in a competitive group 9. No official photographer, so apologies for the quick iPhone piccie.

27/02/2025

🤩EXCITING NEWS!🥳
We are expecting some very special babies from fully health tested lines.

😘With grateful thanks to Becky Vets for weaving her magic to help these litters come to fruition.
😘To Martyn and Lisa for all their support, expertise and help with these litters.
😘To Sharon Hillyard Saberton & Carla Sanchez for sending 'Vinny's' special 'liquid gold' to NZ - we hope we can produce some special puppies in his honour.
😘To mum, for all the generations of stunning healthy Boston's behind these babies.

Pedigrees below.

Riot litter - https://bostonterrier.breedarchive.com/animal/testmating?dam_uuid=f0d7edf7-dcc3-46eb-83a3-16f6b3238754&sire_uuid=68a207f6-f6a9-4350-892b-6b5a9085d899
Pickles (Devine Yeah Riot I am with Martyn) litter - https://bostonterrier.breedarchive.com/animal/testmating?dam_uuid=4ede715c-4468-4477-b3f4-a5e14a039847&sire_uuid=450d9552-7a20-471d-b6c6-eb1b303eb07f

🌟If you have registered with us and on our waitlist, please do contact us to confirm your interest in a top-quality puppy from fully health tested parents 🌟

🥰Thank you to Klaudia Senator for yet another beautiful ad 🥰

27/02/2025

🏆 Picking a Boston Terrier Puppy for Show 🏆

I get asked all the time—how do you pick a show-quality Boston Terrier puppy? So, let’s dive into it! But first, let’s be clear: I’m answering this as a breeder and judge looking for a potential star in the ring, not as a pet owner choosing a beloved companion. (Though let’s be real—even a show dog is first and foremost a much-loved family member! 🥰🐾)

🚫 Rule #1: Never Pick a Puppy from a Photo!
I never choose a puppy based on a picture alone. Why? Because some of the best puppies are the worst when it comes to posing! They refuse to stack properly, fidget like crazy, or just won’t cooperate. (Evie was one of those—pure stubbornness! 😝)

Instead, the best thing you can do is sit, watch, and observe. You can never watch too much! One of the greatest pieces of advice I ever received was:

🏅 A puppy that moves well must be built well.

And let me tell you—it has never let me down!

🐕‍🦺 Movement: What to Look For
When watching a litter, look for the puppy that trots rather than constantly bunny-hopping 🐰 or galloping 🏇. Now, all puppies will gallop and bounce around—it’s normal! But pay attention to that one pup who naturally trots out and catches your eye. That’s the one to watch! 👀✨

❌ My Thoughts on Puppy Puzzle
Now, this is a personal choice, but I’m not a fan of Puppy Puzzle. Every time I had a litter evaluated using it, the results conflicted with my own gut instinct. And guess what? Time and time again, my gut choice ended up being the standout in the ring! 🏆💫

📸 The Evolution of a Show Dog: Evie’s Progression
To illustrate this process, I’ve put together a series of photos of Evie as she grew.

Even as a baby, Evie had the structure—the bare bones of a great show dog were there from the start. But being one of those “uncooperative” puppies, she never made it easy making you constantly question your decisions! 😎 Still, when you look back, you’ll see that her overall structure and balance never really changed.

🏛️ Head Structure: Why It Matters
Head type is critical in Boston Terriers, and Evie’s photos highlight an important point—proportions matter.

✅ The head should always be a series of beautiful squares—both in the overall head shape and the muzzle-to-skull ratio.
✅ The width of the muzzle needs to be broad enough to complete the square, with great fill under the eyes—this is key to achieving that classic, gorgeous expression. 😍
✅ Without this, the head starts to look more rectangular instead of square—something you want to avoid! 🚫

And yes, like many Boston puppies, Evie went through that “all ears” phase before growing into them!

🖊️ Study the Photos & Ask Questions!
Take a close look at the photos. Print them out, sketch the squares, and really study the proportions. I have put together a video 🎥 to show exactly how to measure the ‘squares’ in the head and body—you can find my videos here - https://www.youtube.com/ ! 📏📐

I hope this helps! Drop any questions below—I love discussing structure and movement, and I’m always happy to share insights. 🖤🤍🐾

25/02/2025

🐾 The Challenges of Breeding Boston Terriers in New Zealand 🇳🇿

With so many families searching for a Boston Terrier puppy in NZ, I wanted to share what it truly takes to breed these wonderful dogs. Understanding this process can help explain why Bostons are hard to find—and why they are worth the wait! ❤️🐶

📍 The Challenges of Breeding in NZ
Being so far south, our gene pool is extremely limited. To maintain quality, reputable breeders often import frozen semen from top males overseas—an investment that can exceed 💰$15,000 NZD per mating.

Beyond that, breeders cover costs for 🏥 C-sections, 🩺 health testing, 💉 vaccinations, 📋 microchipping, 🥩 premium food, and 🕰️ round-the-clock care for the first few critical weeks. Even then, there’s no guarantee of a successful litter!

❤️ Why We Do It
As dedicated breeders, we are the guardians of this amazing breed. 🐶 Bostons are a brachycephalic, man-made breed, meaning responsible breeding requires deep knowledge, careful selection, and full health testing.

A quality breeder ensures each breeding prospect has certification in:
✔ 🧬 DNA testing for Juvenile Cataracts
✔ 🦴 Patella grading
✔ 👀 Veterinary Ophthalmologist eye certification
✔ 😮‍💨 BOAS (breathing) grading
Some also conduct 💓 heart and 👂 BAER (hearing) tests, although the latter isn’t widely available in NZ.

🔍 What to Look for in a Breeder
Finding a Boston Terrier should be a well-researched decision. A reputable breeder will:
✅ Conduct full health screenings (ask to see certificates!) 🩺📑
✅ Raise puppies in a 🏡 home environment, not just kennels
✅ Provide lifelong breeder support 🤝
✅ Socialise puppies properly 🐾
✅ Register litters with Dogs NZ & on NZCAR 📝
✅ Ensure breed standard quality 🎩🐶

Boston Terriers are not mass-produced puppies ready for birthdays or Christmas. 🎁❌ They are a lifelong commitment. Due to the dedication required, there can be a 📅 two-year waitlist—so plan ahead!

Because of passionate breeders here and abroad who invest time, resources, and knowledge, the Boston Terrier will continue to thrive in NZ. 🇳🇿 By doing your research and choosing a responsible breeder, you can find the perfect Boston to join your family. 🐶❤️

Pic of a previous litter for the Awww factor.

24/02/2025

Exciting announcement coming by Friday!!
!Stay Tuned! Unless you want to start the guessing game in comments :)

24/02/2025

Another successful weekend for our girl 'Evie' GR CH Devine N'All Th'Riot Places by Rossdhu.

HBKA
Show 1 - Silvana Tassan (Aust)
BEST OF GROUP & Int Of Group
Serge Tassan (Aust)
INTERMEDIATE IN SHOW

Show 2 - Keith Simmons (NZ)
Int of Group

CHBKA
Show 1 - C Graham (NZ)
Int of Group
Kim Haddon (Aust)
INTERMEDIATE IN SHOW

Show 2 Diana Brennan (Aust)
BEST OF GROUP & Int of Group
Silvana Tassan (Aust)
INTERMEDIATE IN SHOW

I counted up her Intermediates after someone asked me how much longer they have to endure seeing her In the Intermediate class 😆
& she has clocked up an amazing:
19 x INTERMEDIATE IN SHOWS
33 x INTERMEDIATE IN GROUPS

BTW 1 month left in Intermediate! 😜🤪😎

Evie is raised and fed on Black Hawk Salmon and powered currently by female hormones that ensure she is able to fight me at every step of the way 😆😆

Thank you so much to the committee - was so refreshing to have 1 judge per group with a two-show day and having first show completed by 11amish and entire show ending by 3pmish.

FANTASTIC. The New World vouchers for In show were a great idea!
Thanks to the patient photographers for some great piccies.

Great weekend, great shows, great people, great company and have to say, I learnt a lot (IYKYK) 🤣😂

19/02/2025

Natural Rearing/Breeding regime

Had so many people asking about Mum's (Tania Colquhoun) Natural Rearing/Breeding regime. So thought it opportune to post it again for people to save.
So many breeders who have had girls not get pregnant, have enjoyed incredibly success with this - one a Saluki who had been mated many times to many different dogs, many different ways, fell pregnant at nearly 8 years of age on this regime with 6 pups I think it was. Other breeds - Saint Bernards, Chow Chow, Whippets, Boxers, and so many more I cannot remember now.
If you have used it - we'd love to hear how you went.
Please feel free to share. Don't forget to FOLLOW us and LIKE our page.

17/02/2025

This question has come up a bit lately, so reposting for the info of the many new members of this page... 🐶📢

BOSTON TERRIERS - Addressing the Tuxedo Markings That Have Become a Hallmark of the Breed 🎩🐾
Boston Terriers are known for their distinctive and striking markings, which are a crucial part of the breed standard.

The Correct Markings for a Boston Terrier Include:
✔ Tuxedo-like coat 🖤🤍: The Boston Terrier's coat is typically black, seal (which appears black but has a red cast when seen in sunlight) ❤️☀, or brindle, with white markings. The ideal pattern resembles a tuxedo - hence the ‘gentleman’ 🏆.

✔ White muzzle band 👃🤍: A white band around the muzzle, extending up to include a blaze between the eyes.

✔ White chest 🤍🦴: The white chest forms a "bib" that is a key part of the tuxedo appearance.

✔ White forelegs and hind legs 🐾🤍: Ideally, the forelegs should have white socks - short or long, and the hind legs should have white socks not past the hocks.

✔ White collar 🏅🤍: A white band around the neck, although this can be partial in some dogs and only 'desired' in the breed standard.

✔ White blaze 🌟🤍: A blaze of white between the eyes, extending up the forehead.

These markings are part of the breed standard set by kennel clubs 🏆📜 and are important for show dogs. However, Boston Terriers can come in a variety of markings that are equally adorable 🥰, even if they don't fit the strict breed standard. After all, their temperament and demeanor are what truly matter ❤️🐕.

Reasons for These Markings:
🔹 Historical Breeding 📜🐾: Boston Terriers were originally bred from a mix of English Bulldogs 🐶 and White English Terriers. Over generations, breeders selected for the distinctive tuxedo markings that have become a hallmark of the breed.

🔹 Aesthetic Appeal 🎨✨: The tuxedo-like appearance gives Boston Terriers a unique and stylish look, contributing to their popularity.

🔹 Breed Standard 📏🏆: Helps maintain the uniformity and health of the breed by encouraging breeders to adhere to specific physical traits.

🔹 Identification 🆔🐶: Distinctive markings help in identifying purebred Boston Terriers and distinguishing them from other breeds.

While the specific purpose of these markings is largely aesthetic and historical, they add to the overall charm and recognition of the Boston Terrier breed 🥰🐾.

13/02/2025

Thursday's points to ponder is something I am extremely passionate about - don't forget you can share any of my articles. BUT please do FOLLOW this page and LIKE this article. Thank you...

Understanding Microchipping: Ensuring Your Pet Can Be Reunited with You 🐾

Microchipping your pet is one of the most effective ways to ensure they can be returned to you if they ever become lost. However, a common misconception is that the pet owner’s details are stored directly on the microchip—this is not the case. Instead, the chip contains a unique identification number that must be registered on a database for it to be useful. In New Zealand, that means registering your pet on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) 📝 and with your local council.

What Is a Microchip and How Does It Work? 🔍

A microchip is a tiny electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It does not contain GPS or tracking capabilities 📍. Instead, it holds a unique number that can be read using a microchip scanner. When a lost pet is found, a vet, SPCA, or animal rescue organisation can scan the chip, retrieve the number, and check it against a database to find the owner’s contact details—but only if the pet has been registered correctly.

Registering on the NZ Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) 📋

Microchipping alone is not enough—you must register your pet’s details on NZCAR - https://www.animalregister.co.nz/ Many pet owners assume that once the chip is implanted, their pet is automatically traceable, but unless you take the next step and register the microchip number, it is useless.

Registering on the NZCAR is a one-time fee of $15 for life 💰, and you must provide the following information:

🐶 Your pet’s name

🔢 Microchip number

🐕 Breed

✨ Distinguishing marks

📞 Your contact details

🏡 A secondary contact (it is highly recommended that this is the breeder, in case you cannot be reached)

Who Has Access to NZCAR?
NZCAR is accessible to vets, animal shelters, and the SPCA, meaning they can quickly reunite lost pets with their owners—often within hours ⏳. In contrast, councils only have access to their own microchip records and can only release information during business hours 🕒. Furthermore, councils cannot directly provide owner details to a vet; instead, they must contact the owner themselves, which can significantly delay reuniting lost pets.

Registering with Your Local Council 🏛️

While registering your pet on NZCAR is crucial, you must also register them with your local council as part of their annual registration process. However, this registration is primarily for legal and identification purposes rather than immediate reunification.

The Risk of Not Registering Your Pet’s Microchip ⚠️

Having worked in the animal health industry, I received countless calls from vets who had scanned a microchipped pet but found no matching details on a database—meaning there was no way to reunite the pet with its owner. If you do not register your pet’s microchip, you have wasted your money and missed a vital opportunity to protect your pet.

Microchip Migration: What You Need to Know 🧬

One lesser-known fact about microchipping is that certain homeopathic remedies, particularly those containing silica, can cause the microchip to migrate elsewhere in the body. If you use alternative treatments for your pet, be aware of this potential issue and discuss it with your vet.

Final Thoughts 💡

Microchipping is a simple and effective way to ensure your pet can always find their way home—but only if you register the microchip correctly. Take the time to register your pet’s details with NZCAR 📝 and your local council 🏛️, and always update your contact information if it changes. This small step could be the difference between losing your pet forever and having them safely returned to you. 🐾❤️

https://youtu.be/Fv9uNbXiixQ?si=3Ar4WQhO8Ln1L5RV

Prof Natalie Waran outlines how microchipping and registration on the NZ Companion Animal Register helps lost pets get home.

11/02/2025

And she brings home more pretty ribbons!

Evie
GR CH Devine N'All Th'Riot Places by Rossdhu (AI)

🥇🏆BEST OF GROUP 1 🥇🏆
Judge Mr B Thompson (Aust)

It was a very hot 🌞🔥 challenging weekend for the brachys, and handlers, and as we know, The Princess does not do hot!
But she still shone and did her best despite melting on the stack. and keeping up form with closed eye photo 😂

Thank goodness, after all these years, I am now the proud owner of a fan and have a full repertoire of cooling gear for said Princess.

Thank you to all the committee, stewards, judges, and fellow exhibitors for a great weekend. And to my travel buddy Lori for the entertainment!

Lesson from the weekend - Tokoroa sadly lacks any restaurant that serves alcohol! BUT if you pay $20 to join the RSA, you can go and have a drink there very cheaply and enjoy a very good meal. Sure beats having to go to the supermarket and buy a pack of beer and bottle of lemonade just to quench your thirst and need for 1 lone shandy 🍻

11/02/2025

A well-written, no-nonsense letter that needs to be shared far and wide. Whether you’re a breeder of pedigrees or mixed breeds, this is essential reading. Every breeder—no matter their approach—should take the time to understand and reflect on this.

We have a responsibility to the pet owner to be reputable and honest!

Thanks to the author for allowing me to share this.

https://www.abcdogsnz.com/post/an-open-letter-to-those-puppy-breeders?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2Mel80EYGjuf_ri3EHHRnUK60vA8F7ZfNIvuaXbxs4U0sSYgOsEz-1_tw_aem_u-R0gBFBcMuL8i6vUzdoyQ

I've spoken to you, communicated with you and pleaded with you to stop, but you are firmly entrenched in a highly profitable side hustle and have no intention of stopping. Your puppies have serious issues, yet you just don't care.The words that fall from your mouth and the emails to prospective buye...

10/02/2025

Tuesdays Thoughts to Ponder is a light-hearted fun look at Boston Terrier Ownership. Please don't forget to LIKE this post and 'FOLLOW' our page to keep us visible - oh and feel free to SHARE.

The Joys (and Struggles) of Being Owned by a Boston Terrier 🐶💨

So, you’re thinking about getting a Boston Terrier? Or maybe you already have one of these tuxedo-wearing little comedians running (and farting) around your house? Either way, welcome to the exclusive club of Boston Terrier owners—where your life is no longer your own, your bed is permanently occupied, and your home has taken on a distinct, uh... aroma. 🤢

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of living with these tiny tornadoes of chaos and cuteness.

✅ Pro: You’ll Never Sleep Alone Again 😴
Boston Terriers believe in the art of strategic bed hogging. It doesn’t matter if you have a California King-sized bed; somehow, your Boston WILL find a way to stretch across it like a Great Dane. You, meanwhile, will be clinging to the edge of the mattress, wondering how such a small creature can take up so much space. Bonus points if you wake up with a paw to the face or a Boston 'Scarf' wrapped around your neck. 🐾

❌ Con: Your House Now Smells Like a Gas Leak 💨
Ah yes, the infamous Boston Terrier flatulence. These little guys have a way of clearing a room faster than a fire alarm. 🚨 Their digestive system is… let’s call it “efficient,” meaning that every meal they consume is turned into a high-powered biological weapon. Pro tip: Keep air fresheners handy, and maybe invest in a gas mask. 🤢😷

✅ Pro: You’ve Got a Live-In Stand-Up Comedian 🤡
Boston Terriers are natural-born clowns. Whether they’re doing their signature zoomies (where they run around the house like caffeinated squirrels 🏃‍♂️💨) or giving you that classic “side-eye of judgment” 👀, there’s never a dull moment. They trip over their own feet, chase their tails, spin on the spot and somehow manage to slide across hardwood floors like Olympic ice skaters. ⛸️

❌ Con: Sun Worshippers Require Premium Real Estate ☀️
Boston Terriers are essentially tiny solar panels in dog form. If there’s a sunbeam in your house, they will find it, and they will claim it. 🦎 Forget putting furniture where you want it—your Boston’s personal sunbathing spot is now prime real estate. If the sun moves, expect them to shuffle along with it like a lizard on a hot rock. 🌞🐶

✅ Pro: They Love You More Than Anything (Even Treats - sometimes!) ❤️
Boston Terriers are Velcro dogs. They don’t just like being with you; they need to be with you. Bathroom trips? 🚽 You’ve got company. Cooking in the kitchen? 🍳 Expect them to supervise. Trying to work? 💻 They’ll happily plop themselves onto your laptop. Their loyalty and love are unmatched, and honestly, it’s kind of flattering to have such a devoted fan club. 🎤🎶 ("I always feel like... somebody's watching me!")

❌ Con: Personal Space? Never Heard of It. 🤨
If you value personal space, a Boston Terrier may not be for you. They believe their rightful place is always wherever you are. Expect a constant shadow, whether you’re on the couch, at your desk, or, yes, even in the bathroom. 🚿 Close the door on them? Prepare for dramatic snorts, whimpering and scratching at the door like they’ve been cast out into the wilderness. 🥺🐾

✅ Pro: They Have the Best Smiles in the Dog World 😁
Boston Terriers are experts in the art of the grin. goofy grin. Their squishy little faces, wide-eyed enthusiasm, and perpetual “Did I do good?!” expression make them some of the most photogenic (and meme-worthy) dogs on the planet. 📸

❌ Con: You’ll Never Own Anything Black Again 🖤🐾
If you think their fur won’t show up on your clothes because they’re black and white, think again. Somehow, Boston Terrier fur manages to find its way onto everything—clothes, couches, even inside closed drawers. 🧥 If you own black clothing, prepare to accessorize with a fine layer of fur.

Final Verdict? Totally Worth It. 🏆
Sure, Boston Terriers come with their fair share of quirks—excessive farting, bed-hogging, sun-chasing, and constant neediness. But honestly? You wouldn’t trade it for the world. They’re affectionate, hilarious, and full of personality.

So, if you’re lucky enough to have a Boston Terrier in your life, congrats! You’re officially owned by one of the best (and most ridiculous) dogs around. 🐶🎉

Would love to see you post pics of your Boston 'being a Boston' in comments below!

05/02/2025

Thursdays Thoughts...
🐶 Understanding Brachycephalic Breeds: A Focus on Boston Terriers 🏡❤️

If you're reading this, chances are you are a pet owner 🐾 or considering becoming one, and if you are considering a Boston Terrier, or any Brachy breed, you might have come across the term "brachycephalic." But what does it really mean, and why is it important for those considering brachy breeds, especially Boston Terriers? 🤔 I will attempt to delve into the technical aspects of brachycephalic breeds from the vast amount of research over the years, to help us all learn more about these unique dogs and why it is CRITICAL you ensure you purchase from a breeder who does physical certified tests, as well as DNA AND that you sight these certificates. 🐕✨
IMPORTANT NOTE - I am not a vet, so this is what I have learnt over the years.

🧠 What is a Brachycephalic Breed?
The term "brachycephalic" comes from the Greek words "brachy," meaning short, and "cephalic," meaning head. Brachycephalic breeds are characterised by their short, broad skulls, which result in a distinctive flat-faced appearance. 🥰🐾 This leads to a specific skull shape, shortened nasal cavity, and other associated features.

🦴 Skull Structure
In brachycephalic breeds, the bones of the face and skull are shortened compared to other breeds. This results in a compressed upper jaw (maxilla), while the lower jaw (mandible) remains relatively unaffected, often giving these dogs an undershot bite. 😬 The nasal passages are shortened, and the soft tissues within the respiratory tract, including the soft palate, can be elongated or excessive, leading to potential breathing difficulties. 😥 Hence, it is important to look at breeders who do BOAS testing with their dogs.

🫁 Respiratory System
The shortened nasal passages and compressed airways of brachycephalic breeds can lead to a condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). 😨 This condition can include several anatomical abnormalities:

Stenotic Nares: Narrowed nostrils that restrict airflow. 👃❌
Elongated Soft Palate: Excess soft tissue at the back of the throat that can block the airway. This can change as the dog grows and develops. 😵‍💫
Everted Laryngeal Saccules: Small sacs inside the larynx that can become inverted, further obstructing airflow. 🗣️🚫
Hypoplastic Trachea: A narrower-than-normal windpipe, restricting airflow to the lungs. 💨
🏆 The Boston Terrier: A Prime Example
Boston Terriers have a square-shaped head with a short muzzle, large round eyes 👀, and a broad chest. Their ears are typically erect, adding to their alert and intelligent expression. 🧠✨ Despite their muscular build, they are relatively small, usually weighing up to around 12 kgs. ⚖️

🐾 Personality and Temperament
One of the reasons Boston Terriers are so sought after is their affectionate and lively nature. 🥰🐕 They are known to be highly intelligent, making them relatively easy to train. Although sometimes, they are too intelligent for their own good! 😆 Their sociable demeanor makes them excellent companions and pets, both for individuals and families. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🐾 They are playful yet gentle, making them the perfect choice for households with children and other pets. 🎾💖

⚠️ Health Considerations for Boston Terriers
While the brachycephalic features of Boston Terriers contribute to their charm, they also come with certain health challenges that pet owners should be aware of. 🚨🐶

🌬️ Respiratory Issues
Due to their compressed airways, Boston Terriers are prone to BOAS. Signs of this condition include:
✅ Snoring & snorting 💤
✅ Heavy panting 😮‍💨
✅ Difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather 🌞🔥

It's crucial to ensure they have a cool environment and avoid strenuous activity in high temperatures. ❄️ Some vets may recommend nare surgery if the nostrils are very pinched or surgery on the soft palate. Always consult with your breeder before doing any form of surgery, as their breathing can improve as they grow. 🏥🐕

👁️ Eye Problems
Their prominent eyes are more susceptible to injuries and conditions such as:
👀 Corneal ulcers
🥲 Dry eye
👓 Cataracts

Regular vet check-ups 🏥 and vigilance regarding eye health are essential. Be sure to check that at least the sire and dam have been DNA-tested for juvenile cataracts. ✅

🦷 Dental Health
The crowded teeth in a short muzzle can lead to dental problems, including plaque buildup and misalignment. 🦷🪥 Routine dental care, such as brushing and professional cleanings, is essential for good oral health.

🏡 Caring for Your Boston Terrier
Owning a Boston Terrier requires commitment, but the rewards are well worth it! 🥰 Here are some essential tips:

✅ Regular Vet Visits: Monitor and address health concerns early. 🏥
✅ Balanced Diet: Provide a nutritious diet to prevent obesity and breathing issues. 🍖🥦
✅ Exercise: Engage in moderate activities. 🐾🚶‍♂️ Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
✅ Grooming: Brush their coat regularly and clean their eyes, ears, and nose wrinkles to prevent infections. 🛁🐶
✅ Training & Socialisation: Their intelligence makes them quick learners! 🎓🐕

💖 Conclusion
Boston Terriers, with their charming looks and affectionate nature, make wonderful pets for the right owners. 🐶💕 Understanding their brachycephalic characteristics and associated health risks is key to providing the best care possible.

‼️It’s important to acknowledge that owning any brachy breed comes with risks. ‼️

Always buy from a reputable breeder who conducts full BOAS and health testing. ✅🏆 This might mean waiting up to two years for a puppy, but it’s worth it!

‼️Breeders do their best to breed healthy puppies, but as an owner, you must also accept the inherent risks. ‼️

With proper attention and love, your Boston Terrier can lead a happy, healthy life, bringing joy and companionship to your home. 🏡🐾💖

By being informed and proactive, you can ensure that these delightful flat-faced friends thrive and live their best lives! 🥰🐶