How Long Is A Boston Terrier's Life Expectancy
So you’ve finally decided (or are in the process of deciding) to choose the Boston Terrier or also known as the classy American Gentleman as your lifelong companion dog. After all, who could absolutely resist their playful and friendly charm especially with that adorable tux right?
Boston Terriers are usually known for their approachable nature and intelligence, which is why they are more often than not, the crowd favorite of dog owners and enthusiasts.
Like every pet owner though, you’re also bound to research all the details of your future furry fellow, from their temperament, dynamics, as well as the appropriate healthcare for them.
How Long Is A Boston Terrier's Life Expectancy
The Boston Terrier can live approximately up to 11 – 15 years, all of which are dictated by their diet, living conditions, and lifestyle.
According to the American Kennel Club, the Boston Terrier’s life expectancy ranges from 11 – 13 years. However, if given the proper healthcare or maybe just luck, they can also live up to 15 years or more as stated by the Boston Terrier Community. In fact, one of the oldest Boston Terrier breeds, (although there isn’t any official list) lived up to 20 years old!
These small dogs are generally healthy and are great companions. Like every breed though, Boston Terriers have specific medical conditions that may affect them in the coming years.
It’s only ideal to know these problems early on so that you can identify the signs and provide them with the necessary medical attention. There are also various determinants that can contribute to their lifespan aside from natural health problems.
BODY STRUCTURE & GENETICS
These small and compact dogs have a unique body structure all thanks to their breed being a cross between the English bulldog and the now extinct English White Terrier.
They are characteristically known to do a lot of noises from excessive grunting to snoring brought by their short muzzle (which is, by the way, the reason why they’re always meme-worthy!). However, because of this, they usually have to inhale more oxygen and can cause them respiratory distress disorder.
Another bodily feature that is prone to acquire disorders is their eyes. Sadly, they’re most adorable body part is also the most sensitive one!
Some of the health disorders to watch out for (no pun intended) are the following:
CORNEAL ULCERS
Corneal ulcer or corneal abrasions are usually caused by blunt trauma or any foreign object in their eye. This is then characterized by fluid discharge in the corners of their eyes.
This type of condition is generally painful and they will either rub their eyes on the carpet or use their paw to relieve the pain.
According to an online medical article by VCA Animal Hospital, this can be easily treated by using antibiotic drops and can heal within three to five days. However, once you see this, it’s always a great sign to go to the vet immediately.
CATARACTS
This condition is described as the clouding of their lens and is usually caused by the natural aging process. When the water balance or protein changes, the light can’t pass through their retina causing blindness. Not to worry though, as most of the time dogs can still see with light cataracts.
CHERRY EYE
This is usually when a tear gland protrudes from the eye sockets and can be seen as a pinkish bulge in the corner of their eyes. When left untreated, this can also cause blindness. This is by far the most common eye problem for Boston Terriers due to their facial structure.
Other than their usual body structure, it’s also important that you only get this furry fella from a trusted breeder and are fully aware of some of the possible hereditary diseases they might have.
ENVIRONMENT
While the Boston Terriers can easily adapt and find creative ways to have fun in any kind of environment, it’s crucial to know that they are usually prone to overheating.
This is why it’s advisable that they are confined in cool and refreshing spaces to avoid this.
Not only that, but since they are prone to respiratory problems, you should also make sure that your home is free from air pollutants and chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOC) that are usually found in certain paint products.
Going the extra mile to make sure that your living quarters are free from harmful chemicals is not only beneficial for your dog but to your family as well.
DIET
Another crucial factor is their existing diet as Boston Terriers are easy to put on weight. Obesity is a common health problem in this area and you have to make sure that (a) they don’t overeat and, (b) they have a well-balanced meal.
Alongside this, their meal shouldn’t be commercially prepared but instead, carefully selected for their current health conditions. Antioxidants in their food and ample hydration will ideally boost their health.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Like their diet, too much of everything just might not be advisable for them. While it’s ideal that they get their fair share of play, this will only end up being harmful to them when prolonged.
One of the most ideal schedules for them to avoid overheating is that 30 minutes is allotted for their walks and another 30 minutes for their free play. Activities like a tug of war or agility courses will also be great for their health.
It’s important to note that you should rein them in after the exercises since Boston Terriers can get hyperactive at times! (They just love to play so much.)
These furry fellas are the most friendly and easy-going dogs. They just love to be loved and return the love as well, and while Boston Terriers can live a long life, they should have a healthy lifestyle in the first place. Every pet owner would only want to give the best years for their dogs after all!
If you want to learn more about the American Gentleman before you finally decide to pour all your love into them, check out these 9 tail-wagging fun facts of this breed!