Boston Terrier: size, sleep, exercise and care

At a glance

Size

Small

Adult weight

5.5–11.5 kg

Life expectancy

11–13 years

Exercise needs

Moderate · 30–60 min per day

Sleep needs

Typical total sleep per 24 hours, including naps.

Puppy18–20 h

Adult12–14 h

Senior12–15 h

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These are general life-stage ranges for dogs from the AKC and Hill's; no study gives a separate figure for the Boston Terrier. Individual dogs vary, and a sudden change in how much your dog sleeps is worth mentioning to your vet. Short-faced breeds can snore or breathe noisily in sleep; laboured breathing at rest is worth a vet check.

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Exercise needs

The Royal Kennel Club and PDSA both put the Boston at up to an hour a day. Two shorter walks plus play usually suit them best. Because the face is short, PDSA warns against exercising in the heat of the day: walk early and late in summer, carry water, and stop if breathing becomes loud or laboured.

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Potty training

Bostons are small enough that puppies need frequent trips out, especially after waking, eating and play. A fixed toilet spot and a calm routine work better than long sessions outside.

Many dislike cold, wet weather, which can lead to rushed trips and accidents indoors later. Stay out until the puppy has actually finished, and reward right away.

Puppy potty schedule calculator →

Feeding

Feed a complete food for small breeds, measured by weight, in three to four meals a day for young puppies and two for adults. Bostons can gulp air while eating, so a slow feeder or a shallow bowl may help a fast eater.

Extra weight makes breathing harder for a short-faced dog, so keep treats small and check the waistline regularly.

Puppy feeding schedule calculator →