review for the best dog food for boston terriers

8 Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers in 2024

Boston Terriers hardly ever run out of juice, happily zooming around long past playtime. They might just skip breaks entirely, eagerly nudging you for just one more throw, until you firmly decide playtime’s over (though they’ll likely give you those puppy eyes, begging for more). These pups thrive on top-notch munchies and a well-rounded diet. So, let’s dive into the finest chow for Boston Terriers.

How We Chose Our Top Recommended Dog Foods for Boston Terriers

boston terrier eating a bowl dog food
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

In order to find you and your pooch the best dog foods that will satisfy you both, we made sure to carefully select each food and determine what makes them stand out among its other competitors.

Premium Animal Protein

bowl of high-quality protein sources used for earthborn holistic dog foods
Photo by Eiliv-Sonas Aceron on Unsplash

Nothing can go wrong with quality protein, especially if it’s the top ingredient you see in the ingredient list. Most dog foods included in this list have Chicken, Turkey, and Salmon as the first ingredient, followed by meat meals such as Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, or Ocean Fish Meal. These are all good protein sources, and as long as there’s a specific animal source listed, you know its quality is safe.

Complete and Balanced

complete and balanced dog food on a bowl
Image by arinaja from Pixabay

As a fur parent, finding a diet food for my dog that’s complete and contains all the necessary nutrients our dog needs to thrive is one of the things we look out for in dog foods. A complete and well-balanced diet is beneficial, especially if you’re using that dog food as part of your dog’s daily meal. They’ll need a dog food that can meet all your Boston Terrier’s needs, and we made sure that we give you the best options for a complete and balanced meal.

No Animal By-Products, Fillers, or Artificial Ingredients

dog food with no animal by-products, fillers, or artificial ingredients
Photo by Sam Moqadam on Unsplash

Dogs with sensitive stomachs will especially appreciate this. For your dog’s best interest, we made sure to exclude any dog food filled with low-quality ingredients, which means no fillers, by-products, artificial preservatives, and flavors. We want to offer only quality foods that have a high nutritional value and don’t underperform in any aspect.

View the Best Dog Foods for Boston Terriers Below

1. Nulo Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Nulo Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Nulo
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds
  • Total Weight: 11.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Low Glycemic

Our Review

Great dog food for small dogs, like the Boston Terrier, is this Nulo grain-free recipe packed with all the best nutrients for our smallest fur friends. Nulo Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food has patented BC30 probiotics to promote a healthy gut and improved digestion. Small breed pups can benefit from the reduced kibble size ideal for sensitive Boston Terrier jaws.

The combination of higher meat content and fewer carbohydrates makes it the perfect dog food for Boston Terriers that need to lose weight or struggle with maintaining a healthy weight in the past. Your large-eyed friend won’t be able to say no to this salmon and red lentil recipe, and it is suitable both for puppies and for adult dogs!

Ingredients

Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lamb Meal, Red Lentils, Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols & Citric Acid), Miscanthus Grass, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Apples, Dried Blueberries, Dried Tomatoes, Dried Carrot.

Pros:

+ 83% animal-based protein
+ High protein and low carb formula
+ Patented BC30 probiotic
+ With L-Carnitine to promote weight management
+ Small kibble size fit for small mouths
+ Wholesome fruits, vegetables, vitamins C and E for immune system health

Cons:

– Pricey
– Not for a sensitive stomach

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,572 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
Crude Protein31.0% min
Crude Fat17.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Moisture10.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids2.8% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.85% min

Why We Like It – This Nulo Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best Boston Terrier food that contains all the essentials to meet your pupper’s nutritional needs. It’s a poultry-free and grain-free diet, perfect for dogs with allergies to chicken or grains.


2. Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Wellness Natural Pet Food
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
  • Total Weight: 4.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, High-Protein

Our Review

While your black and white Boston Terrier might not care where their food is made, you will be glad to hear this Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food is made in the United States with locally sourced ingredients! The calorie levels are optimized for small dog breeds, and it is made with real chicken and turkey to ensure your fur friend gets enough protein and energy to last a whole day!

All the ingredients are natural, and Wellness Core does not contain any wheat, soy, corn, or other fillers. It is also free from animal by-products and preservatives to make sure your little friend only gets the best and most nutritious dog food. Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate promotes hip and joint health, especially beneficial for senior Boston Terriers.

Ingredients

Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Spearmint, Zinc Proteinate.

Pros:

+ Optimized protein and calorie levels
+ Glucosamine and Chondroitin to promote healthy joints
+ Supports whole-body health
+ Made in the United States
+ Omega fatty acids 3 and 6 for healthy skin and coat
+ No meat by-products, fillers, artificial preservatives, or flavors

Cons:

– No zip-lock feature
– Not for picky eaters

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,746 kcal/kg, 412 kcal/cup
Crude Protein36.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Moisture10.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.5% min

Why We Like It – This adult dog food has enough protein to keep your pup going while still making sure they stay at a healthy weight! It promotes lean muscle and better digestion, and the flavor is superior to many other small dog food products.


3. WholeHearted Grain Free Small-Breed Chicken and Pea Recipe

Product Specifications

  • Brand: WholeHearted
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Small Breed
  • Total Weight: 14.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: Grain-Free, Single Protein Source

Our Review

WholeHearted Grain Free Small-Breed Chicken and Pea Recipe contain only one animal protein source – chicken, which can be very helpful for Boston Terriers with food allergies and sensitivities. Exposing a dog to fewer ingredients can clear up itchy skin and help an upset stomach, and that is not all this crunchy Boston Terrier dog food has to offer!

It has skipped all grains, low-quality ingredients, fillers, and preservatives, and instead, you get a nutritious dog food made with natural components at an affordable price! Being on a budget shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on quality for your best fur friend, and WholeHearted has come up with a solution for you!

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Chickpeas, Lentils, Pea Flour, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Dried Tomato Pomace, Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil, Salt, Dl-methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product.

Pros:

+ Real chicken as the #1 ingredient
+ Reduces tartar and plaque
+ Probiotics for a healthy digestion
+ With calcium and phosphorous
+ Ideal for small breed dogs

Con:

– Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,660 kcal/kg, 342 kcal/cup
Crude Protein27.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Moisture10.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids2.5% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.4% min

Why We Like It – Tasty and nutritious dog food at an affordable price, which takes care of your Boston Terrier’s teeth, breath, digestion, and energy supply.


4. Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Purina Pro Plan
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
  • Total Weight: 18.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: High-Protein, With Grain

Our Review

Featuring a complete and balanced diet suitable for adult Boston Terriers, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. This adult food from Purina is a high-protein formula that uses real chicken as the #1 ingredient to keep up with your Boston Terrier’s high spirits and energy. Vitamin A, linoleic acid, and Omega-6 fatty acid help keep your pupper’s skin healthy and coat shiny.

Purina Pro Plan designed this small-breed adult dog food in shredded pieces mixed with crunchy kibble to fit small mouths. Let’s not forget the guaranteed live probiotics that promote a healthy digestive system and calcium and phosphorous to maintain strong bones and teeth.

Ingredients

Chicken, Rice, Poultry By-product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-tocopherols, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Germ Meal, Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Dried Yeast, Glycerin, Calcium Carbonate, Wheat Bran, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Salt, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride.

Pros:

+ High protein formula with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
+ Guaranteed live probiotics for digestive health
+ Complete and balanced nutrition
+ With calcium and phosphorous for bone health
+ Promotes a healthy coat with omega-6 fatty acids
+ Nutritious and tender bite-sized kibble

Cons:

– Kibble size is not suitable for small dogs
– Not for picky eaters

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,824 kcal/kg, 373 kcal/cup
Crude Protein29.0% min
Crude Fat17.0% min
Crude Fiber3.0% max
Moisture12.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids1.7% min
Glucosamine400 ppm min

Why We Like It – As one of the popular and well-established dog food brands today, Purina Pro Plan made sure to create the best dog food for Boston Terriers. This adult food will satisfy their stomachs, taste buds, and nutritional needs, especially with high-quality protein as the starting ingredient. Know more about this product through Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Review.


5. Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Eukanuba
  • Lifestage: Puppy
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
  • Total Weight: 15.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: High-Protein, With Grain

Our Review

Moving on to the dog food for Boston Terrier puppies. Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food provides a complete and balanced diet that’s optimized to support your Boston Terrier puppy and their needs. This puppy food starts off with a high-quality protein, real chicken, to help them develop strong and lean muscles as they grow up.

With optimal calcium and phosphorous levels, your puppy’s bones and teeth are protected! Of course, it also contains DHA to support cognitive development and vitamin E and antioxidants for the immune system. Give your puppy a boost of energy that can last them all day long with the optimized carb and fat levels in this puppy food.

You might like: 8 Best Tasting Dog Food for Picky Eaters

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Chicken Fat, Wheat, Ground Grain Sorghum, Brewers Rice, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Egg Product, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Fructooligosaccharides, Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Biotin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin Supplement.

Pros:

+ High-quality animal protein from chicken
+ With calcium and phosphorous to support muscles and bones
+ Complete and balanced diet for small breed puppies
+ DHA for healthy brain development
+ Natural fiber and prebiotic blend for healthy digestion
+ Promotes a healthy immune system

Cons:

– Poor packaging
– Contains filler ingredients like corn and wheat

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content4,076 kcal/kg, 465 kcal/cup
Crude Protein32.0% min
Crude Fat21.0% min
Crude Fiber3.2% max
Moisture10.0% max
Docosahexaenoic Acid0.11% min
Calcium1.3% min

Why We Like It – Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food gives your Boston Terrier puppy overall nutrition. Dog owners and their puppers are happy with this puppy food, it’s your turn now to give your pup a high-quality diet just like this one!


6. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Puppy Dog Food

Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Puppy Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Wellness Natural Pet Food
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Extra Small & Toy Breeds, Small Breeds
  • Total Weight: 4.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, With Grain

Our Review

Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Puppy Dog Food provides all the necessary nutrients for a growing and thriving puppy. This dry kibble offers three high-quality proteins from Turkey, Chicken, and Salmon with wholesome grains to match Boston Terrier puppies’ energy needs.

This well-balanced dog food takes care of your puppy’s overall nutrition. It has antioxidant-rich sources from Blueberries, Spinach, and more. Plus, Omega fatty acids from Flaxseed and Salmon Oil make your puppy’s skin and coat beautiful and healthy. There’s calcium and phosphorous for bone and muscle development, and the most important part, DHA, to support brain function.

Ingredients

Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Oats, Tomato Pomace, Tomatoes, Pea Fiber, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Natural Chicken Flavor, Carrots, Spinach, Potassium Chloride, Sweet Potatoes, Blueberries, Apples, Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Vitamin E Supplement.

Pros:

+ 3 high-quality animal protein sources
+ Omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat
+ Natural sources of DHA for brain development
+ With calcium and phosphorous for bone health
+ Antioxidants from Blueberries and Spinach
+ No GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives

Cons:

– Has a strong fish smell
– Kibble size is not ideal for small breed puppies

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,881 kcal/kg, 489 kcal/cup
Crude Protein28.0% min
Crude Fat19.0% min
Crude Fiber4.25% max
Moisture10.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids4.20% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.60% min

Why We Like It – Pet parents love this for their fur babes, especially with its healthy and nutritious ingredients. It’s great for growing puppies who want to have a healthy lifestyle as they grow up to be strong and fit.


7. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food

Product Specifications

  • Brand: Royal Canin
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
  • Total Weight: 14.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: With Grain

Our Review

Most recommended for dogs over 10 months old, Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to satisfy adult Boston Terriers’ high energy needs. Meanwhile, it also contains L-Carnitine to improve digestion and help your pooch maintain a healthy weight all throughout their adult life stage.

Royal Canin ensured that this dry kibble has enhanced palatability to entice even the fussiest eaters. This grain-inclusive dog food also has essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA to improve your pooch’s brain function and skin and coat condition. See more information through Royal Canin Dog Food Review.

Ingredients

Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Wheat Gluten, Fish Oil, Vegetable Oil, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Fructooligosaccharides, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Monocalcium Phosphate, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E).

Pros:

+ With L-Carnitine to promote healthy weight management
+ Omega fatty acids, EPA and DHA, for skin and coat health
+ Small kibble design for small jaws
+ Enhanced palatability
+ Specifically formulated for dogs 10 months old to 8 years old

Cons:

– Includes corn
– Not for dogs with grain allergies

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3744 kcal/kg, 359 kcal/cup
Crude Protein25.0% min
Crude Fat14.0% min
Crude Fiber3.4% max
Moisture10.0% max
EPA0.11% min
DHA0.05% min

Why We Like It – Royal Canin also offers the Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult 8+ Dry Dog Food for dogs over the age of 8. It is great for senior dogs looking for support to maintain optimal health as they age.


8. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food

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Product Specifications

  • Brand: Blue Buffalo
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Breed Size: Extra Small & Toy Breeds, Small Breeds
  • Total Weight: 15.0 pounds
  • Special Diet: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, With Grain

Our Review

If your Boston Terrier would do best on regular high-quality dog food, this Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a better option. The kibble size is small and easy to chew while also being crunchy and tasty. It contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals packed in one kibble, the LifeSource Bits.

This formula also uses wholesome grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, and barley to balance out their high protein content from real chicken. Also included are healthy fruits and vegetables like sweet potato, carrots, blueberries, and cranberries, all great sources of fiber and other nutrients. Meanwhile, optimal levels of Omega-3 and 6 promote skin and coat nutrition.

Ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Pea Starch, Dried Tomato Pomace, Peas, Pea Protein, Dried Egg Product, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Pea Fiber.

Pros:

+ Real chicken as the first ingredient
+ Promotes lean muscle development
+ With antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
+ Enhanced with essential vitamins and minerals
+ Supports joints and mobility with Glucosamine
+ No poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives

Cons:

– Not recommended for sensitive stomachs
– Non-resealable packaging

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,665 kcal/kg, 396 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat15.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Moisture10.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.5% min

Why We Like It – Dogs can be picky, and the Boston Terrier is no exception! This product comes in three flavor varieties so that you can choose what you think your pooch would respond best to.


Dog Food for Boston Terriers Buyer’s Guide

healthy boston terrier eating a bowl dog food
Photo by B J on Unsplash

Being small breed doggos, Boston Terriers are known to be highly energetic. Thus, their diet requires something that can keep up with their energy needs to be active for the whole day. Although, for the most part, their diet doesn’t differ much from other dog breeds, it’s still important to know which foods are suitable for their breed and activity level.

Nutritional Needs of a Boston Terrier

food nutritional needs of a boston terrier
Image by dandelion_tea on Pixabay

Naturally, you Boston Terrier would thrive well on high-quality dog food with complete and balanced nutrition. Other than that, here are the basic nutritional requirements of Boston Terriers that you should not miss on their diet.

Protein

Protein is the #1 must-have on every dog’s diet. Proteins are excellent sources of essential amino acids, which are vital to leading a healthy lifestyle for your pooch. These essential amino acids provide your dog with nutrition that helps them function normally in their everyday lives.

For example, protein helps repair tissue cells, promote lean muscle development, and support the immune system. Also, protein is a good source of calories, one of the main ingredients in replenishing your dog’s energy levels.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats do not only satisfy your dog’s energy needs, but it’s also responsible for a lot of your dog’s bodily functions. The type of healthy fat we’ll mainly focus on is Omega fatty acids, or Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

These fatty acids are what we call essential. It can’t be produced by our own body, so we need to obtain it through food and diet. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids have a lot of health benefits. They are mostly involved in promoting brain and eye development, improving skin and coat health, strengthening the immune system, and more.

Complex Carbs

Complex carbs are another great source of energy for dogs and keep them feeling full for a longer time. Some good examples of complex carbs are fruits, vegetables, brown rice, oatmeal, and sweet potatoes. These ingredients are also an excellent source of fiber, so you’re keeping your dog Boston Terrier energized, and at the same time, taking care of their digestive system.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B vitamins, calcium, phosphorous, and more are essential for all dogs’ diets. Your dog can obtain these through food or supplements. Excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and even antioxidants include fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and more.

Main Health Concerns for Boston Terriers

deaf boston terrier
Photo by Julie Marsh on Unsplash

When taking care of Boston Terriers, it’s best to be aware of the breed-specific health problems that they are prone to, so you can take immediate action when necessary.

Brachycephalic Syndrome

Brachycephalic Syndrome is a health condition that only affects flat-face or short-nosed dog breeds such as the Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Chow Chow, and more. Because of their unique head or face shape, it sometimes causes a combination of upper airway abnormalities.

The upper airway abnormalities that occur in this syndrome include stenotic nares, extended nasopharyngeal turbinates, an elongated soft palatelaryngeal collapse, a hypoplastic trachea, and everted laryngeal saccules.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome in Dogs by Krista Williams, BSc, DVM; Cheryl Yuill, DVM, MSc, CVH from VCA Animal Hospitals

Signs and symptoms of Brachycephalic Syndrome are difficulty breathing, snoring, noisy breathing, coughing, exercise intolerance, retching or gagging, sudden collapse, and blue tongue or gums (from lack of oxygen).

Patellar Luxation

Patellar Luxation, also known as Luxating Patella, refers to the condition of a dislocated or displaced kneecap. This is more prevalent on small dogs such as Maltese, Chihuahua, French Poodle, Boston Terrier, and more. Dogs affected by this condition can show signs such as limping, skipping or hopping, shaking, or extending their leg.

As it worsens, you may notice the lameness of their leg being more frequent. In a worst-case scenario, it can even cause inflammation, tearing the ligaments, and damaging knee cartilage, putting your pooch in so much more pain.

Related Article: Why Is My Chihuahua Shaking?

Cataracts

A common eye problem for Boston Terriers is cataracts. This is an eye condition characterized by the lenses’ clouding, causing cloudy vision or mild blindness to the affected eye. Boston Terriers can develop cataracts as early as 8 weeks.

As of today, the only known treatment for cataracts is administering medicated eye drops or surgery. If you notice your doggo getting more clumsy, constantly stumbling into things, or increasing in lens opacity, a vet visit might be worth a trip.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is another common eye issue for Boston Terriers. There are two types of glaucoma: primary glaucoma and secondary glaucoma.

Primary glaucoma is the most common glaucoma and can be inherited for some breeds. This happens when there’s pressure in the eye blocking fluid outflow. This type of glaucoma affects both eyes and can eventually lead to blindness. Meanwhile, secondary glaucoma happens when an existing eye infection such as cataracts, eye inflammation, tumors, or luxated lens is present.

Signs and symptoms of glaucoma are blinking, redness of the blood vessels in the eye, cloudy film on the eye, dilated pupil, lack of pupillary light reflex, pressure in the eye, headaches, etc.

Deafness

Deafness is also a common condition that Boston Terriers are prone to. Some research says that Boston Terriers with one blue eye and one brown eye have an increased risk for deafness. A study also claims that a Boston Terrier with an all-white or more white in its coat is associated with having a higher risk of deafness. An obvious sign of deafness is your dog’s unresponsiveness to your call or any noise.

Common Allergies of Boston Terriers

boston terrier with symptom of common allergy
Photo by Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash

Like any other dog, your Boston Terrier is also at risk of developing allergies at any point in their life. Here are the common types of allergies to watch out for when taking care of any dog.

Food Allergies

The common food allergens you need to be aware of come from proteins such as chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and eggs. Other food allergens include corn, wheat, soy, and dog foods with artificial or chemical ingredients that can cause skin allergies.

Environmental Allergies

Exposure to environmental allergens like mold, pollen, dust mites, weeds, and even household sprays can cause skin irritation. Also, best be careful what kind of shampoo and conditioner you apply to your dog. Grooming products, topicals, or sprays, can cause skin allergies if exposed to a specific allergen.

The signs and symptoms of allergies are:

  • Irritated skin like itching, rash, or skin sores
  • Skin inflammation
  • Hair loss
  • Dry and dull coat
  • Glassy eyes
  • Teary eyes
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Chronic ear infection
  • Upset stomach or diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Coughing or wheezing
  • Biting or scratching of their own skin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended caloric content for my Boston Terrier?

Your Boston Terrier’s recommended calorie intake will depend on a number of factors including their age, weight, health condition, and activity level. As a general guideline, Boston Terriers with an average weight of 10 to 25 pounds needs to consume about 400 to 660 calories per day.

Can I feed my Boston Terrier grain-free dog food?

Yes, you can switch your Boston Terrier’s diet to a grain-free recipe, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or are allergic to grains. Look for a grain-free recipe that doesn’t include corn, wheat, or soy in its ingredients, as these are common food allergens. Check out this article: Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs

Conclusion

The Boston Terrier is an excellent family dog; a dog that loves to tag along for all kinds of adventures, that is small enough to transport easily and one that won’t eat you out of the house.

That said, their nutritional needs are somewhat specific, mostly due to the hereditary diseases associated with the breed, because while it is considered a healthy dog breed compared to other flat-faced dogs – there are still a few things to look out for.

The best way to prevent your pooch falling ill is by providing them with a quality dog food for Boston Terriers, to exercise them regularly and to visit a trusted veterinarian for regular check-ups. To learn more, click here – More facts about Boston Terriers.

Expert Tip

While many Boston Terriers are enthusiastic eaters, some can be fussy, and it is a good idea to add irresistible canned dog food as food toppings for the dogs that need some extra convincing.

Did You Know?

While the Boston Terrier has ‘terrier’ in its name – it is not actually one, and it is not included in the Terrier category on the American Kennel Club’s (the AKC) official website.

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