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Boston Spaniel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Boston Spaniel so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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OriginEngland flagEngland United States flagUnited States
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Boston Spaniel? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Boston Terrier and English Cocker Spaniel mix

Boston Spaniel Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Boston Spaniel? Learn how big the Boston Spaniel breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Boston Spaniel weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Boston Spaniel breed.
Male: 28-34 pounds (13-16 kg), Female: 26-32 pounds (12-15 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Boston Spaniel?
Male: 31 pounds (14.5 kg), Female: 29 pounds (13.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Boston Spaniel? Boston Spaniel height:
Male: 15-17 inches (38-43 cm), Female: 14-16 inches (36-41 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Boston Spaniel?
Male: 16 inches (40.5 cm), Female: 15 inches (38.5 cm)

Boston Spaniel Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Boston Spaniel puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Boston Spaniel costs.
$900-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Boston Spaniel, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Boston Spaniel for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Boston Spaniel gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Boston Spaniel? How many Boston Spaniel are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Boston Spaniel is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Boston Spaniel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Boston Spaniel? Discover the Boston Spaniel's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Smart: The Boston Spaniel dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Boston Spaniel is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Boston Spaniel? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's trainability and response to training methods.
Boston Spaniel dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Boston Spaniel as a watchdog? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's alertness and guarding instincts.
Boston Spaniel dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Boston Spaniel dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Boston Spaniel protective of its territory? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's guarding instincts and behavior.
Boston Spaniel dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Boston Spaniel Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Boston Spaniel have? Learn about characteristic Boston Spaniel temperament and behavior traits.
PlayfulIntelligentFriendlyAffectionateLivelyGentleAggressiveTrainableQuietFaithful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Boston Spaniel sensitivity:
Sensitive: Boston Spaniel dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Boston Spaniel a good family dog?
High: Boston Spaniel dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Boston Spaniel need? Boston Spaniel social needs:
Boston Spaniel dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Boston Spaniel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Boston Spaniel roam?
Boston Spaniel dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Boston Spaniel have high prey drive?
Boston Spaniel dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Boston Spaniel dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Boston Spaniel Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Boston Spaniel bark a lot? Learn about typical Boston Spaniel vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Boston Spaniel barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Boston Spaniel? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Boston Spaniel breed.
The Boston Spaniel is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Boston Spaniel live in an apartment? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's suitability for apartment living.
Very house-friendly dog the Boston Spaniel breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Boston Spaniel Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Boston Spaniel to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's flexibility to new situations.
Boston Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Boston Spaniel be left alone? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's tolerance to solitude.
Boston Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Boston Spaniel Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Boston Spaniel biting potential? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Boston Spaniel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Boston Spaniel mouthy? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's tendency to use mouth during play.
Boston Spaniel dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Boston Spaniel dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Boston Spaniel bite? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Boston Spaniel bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Boston Spaniel measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Boston Spaniel is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Boston Spaniel bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Boston Spaniel bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Boston Spaniel puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Boston Spaniel, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Boston Spaniel bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Boston Spaniel can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Boston Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Boston Spaniel live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Boston Spaniel breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Boston Spaniel: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Boston Spaniel handle different weather? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Boston Spaniel? Discover typical conditions affecting the Boston Spaniel breed.
The Boston Spaniel is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Boston Spaniel need vet visits? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Boston Spaniel should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Boston Spaniel breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Boston Spaniel breed? Most common health risks of Boston Spaniel:
CataractsHeart Murmurs Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationAllergiesDeafnessEar InfectionsCherry EyeElbow DysplasiaRenal FailureBrain TumorsMegaesophagusReverse Sneezing

Boston Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Boston Spaniel? Understand daily activity needs of the Boston Spaniel breed.
Boston Spaniel dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Boston Spaniel need? How much exercise do Boston Spaniel dogs require per day?

Do Boston Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises?

Boston Spaniel dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Boston Spaniel breed need?
Boston Spaniel dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Boston Spaniel Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Boston Spaniel prone to weight gain? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Boston Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Boston Spaniel weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Boston Spaniel need daily? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's feeding requirements.
1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Boston Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Boston Spaniel hypoallergenic? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Boston Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Boston Spaniel come in? Discover all possible Boston Spaniel color variations.
BlackTan Blue White Brindle Golden Liver Seal Roan
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Boston Spaniel need? Learn about Boston Spaniel coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Boston Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Boston Spaniel is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Boston Spaniel drool a lot? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's drooling habits.
The Boston Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Boston Spaniel could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Boston Spaniel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Boston Spaniel smell bad? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Boston Spaniel has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Boston Spaniel have? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's fur characteristics.
FineFeathered
Bathing Needs
How often does a Boston Spaniel need baths? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's bathing requirements.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Shedding Level
How much do Boston Spaniel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Boston Spaniel? Do Boston Spaniel dogs shed a lot?
Boston Spaniel dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Boston Spaniel Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Boston Spaniel good with children? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's behavior around kids of different ages.
Boston Spaniel dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Boston Spaniel get along with other pets? Discover the Boston Spaniel's compatibility with other animals.
Boston Spaniel dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Boston Spaniel temperament with other people:
Boston Spaniel dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Boston Spaniel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Boston Spaniel breed live with a cat?
Boston Spaniel dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Boston Spaniel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Boston Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs?
Boston Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Boston Spaniel can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Boston Spaniel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Boston Spaniel breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Boston Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Boston Spaniel dogs good office canines? Do Boston Spaniel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Boston Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Boston Spaniel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Boston Spaniel temperament with senior people? Are Boston Spaniel dogs good for elderly owners?
Boston Spaniels are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Boston Spaniel As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Boston Spaniel be a service dog? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Boston Spaniel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Boston Spaniel good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Boston Spaniel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Boston Spaniel good at detection work? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Boston Spaniel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Boston Spaniel do search and rescue? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Boston Spaniel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Boston Spaniel good on boats? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's maritime capabilities.

Yes

Boston Spaniel breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Boston Spaniel pull carts? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Boston Spaniel is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Boston Spaniel used in military service? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Boston Spaniel Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Boston Spaniel usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
6-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Boston Spaniel pregnant? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Boston Spaniel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Boston Spaniel have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Boston Spaniel Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Boston Spaniel in? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Boston Spaniel in? Learn about the Boston Spaniel's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Boston Spaniel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Boston Spaniel dogs have great intelligence.
  • Training Difficulty: Boston Spaniel dogs are easy to train.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Very house-friendly dog the Boston Spaniel breed.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Boston Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Boston Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Boston Spaniel dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Boston Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Boston Spaniel dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Boston Spaniel dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Boston Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Boston Spaniels are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Boston Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Maritime Work Ability: Boston Spaniel breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Boston Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Boston Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Boston Spaniel dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Boston Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Boston Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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