Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier does require regular bathing and grooming.  This lively and intelligent little dog can be bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every six weeks depending on his lifestyle.  With this smooth coated breed, regular bathing is essential to maintain healthy skin and coat.  Selecting the correct products to match your pet’s skin and coat is essential to achieve optimal results.

Before bathing your Boston Terrier, it is recommended to go over the dog’s entire body with a high velocity dryer in order loosen any dirt and dander from the skin and remove any excess loose coat.  Lightly card the coat to help accelerate shedding.  Once you have selected the best products for your Boston, it is bath time!

One area to pay particular attention to detail is the facial area.  A facial cleanser allows you to focus on the entire facial surface as well as any facial wrinkles.  Any wrinkles, however minor they may be, can hold bacteria.  It is imperative to pay particular attention to those areas.  The facial scrub can be used in between baths in order maintain freshness and good hygiene.

This friendly, alert, and spirited little dog should be bathed and groomed on a regular basis. In order to keep the short, smooth coat in prime condition, it is always beneficial to use a hydrating spray following the bath and drying process.  This allows the skin and coat to lock in moisture in order to maintain perfect hydration.  As a finishing touch, before using a hydrating spray, use a grooming mitt and massage in a circular motion to stimulate the release of natural oils in addition to the removal of any excess loose hairs.  Then finish with a hydrating spray.

Prep work is the foundation of all grooming.  Prep work includes ear cleaning, nail trimming, anal glands, and proper dental hygiene.  Mastering these skills sets the professional pet stylist apart from the rest.  Prep work should be done before every bathing and grooming appointment.  All dogs need to have their ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis.  Proper nail care is also very important.  Long, unsightly nails are uncomfortable for the dog, as well as anyone they might jump on.  Long nails also compromise the shape of the foot.  Trimming the pads of the foot helps give the dog good traction on different surfaces and can minimize the amount of dirt the dog tracks into the house.  It also affords the opportunity to treat and condition the paws from cracks and abrasions.  Anal glands should also be checked and expressed if they are full.  Some caring pet owners prefer to have the anal glands done by their veterinarian. Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy pet as well.

In order to maintain healthy skin and coat as well as overall health, it is important to provide good nutrition to your dog through a well-balanced diet, vitamins, and healthy treats.

If you are not a fan of cutting hair, then you have made the right selection of choosing a Boston Terrier.  This smooth, short haired bundle of joy requires minimal grooming.  However, weekly brushing is recommended.  It is important to wash their face and pay particular attention to the wrinkles at least weekly if not twice a week.

The shortened muzzles of Boston Terriers predispose to respiratory issues.  Owners must use caution when the temperatures and humidity are high because they can overheat very easily.  Other issues that are common are cataracts, a degenerative condition that may lead to blindness.  In addition to cataracts, Allergic Dermatitis is one of the most common skin problems encountered in the breed.  Typically, it requires a dermatologist to perform allergy testing to determine the cause of the dermatitis.

Shedding is minimal with Boston Terriers due to their single coat.  This breed produces less dander than many other breeds.  However, the amount of dander a dog produces is different, and depends on the health of the skin and coat, as well as nutrition.  Since they produce less dander, they should do better with people who are allergic to dogs.  However, before bringing a Boston Terrier into your home if you suffer from allergies, you should spend some time around the breed to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Boston Terriers are quirky little dogs that are full of personality.  If children treat them well, the Boston enjoys romping around with kids.  They love company and need to be an integral part of a family.

Whether you have a show dog or a companion quality dog, the same basic care is given regarding nutrition, socialization, and hygiene.  The difference is the conditioning of the dog and conformation training.  It is always quite helpful if your breeder can help mentor you to lead you in the right direction upon entering the wonderful world of dog shows.  A great place to start is with the national breed club like the Boston Terrier Club of America, www.bostonterrierclubofamerica.org