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                              Boston Terriers
                                      
Author

   Pam Dupre, AURY91A@prodigy.com or LUCY81354@aol.com
   
   The AKC Standard, Club Names and Breeder information were all provided
   by information given out by the Boston Terrier Club of America, Inc.
   All materials used with permission. Copyright 1995 by the Boston
   Terrier Club of America, Inc.
   
   Additions, corrections, and suggestions are welcomed.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Table of Contents

     * Breed Origin
     * The Boston Terrier Club Of America
     * Care, Exercise, and Grooming
     * Health
     * Frequently Asked Questions
     * Boston Terrier Rescue
     * Resources
          + Parent Club
          + Affiliated Clubs
          + Unaffiliated Clubs
          + Books and Magazines
     * A Look at the Standard
          + Introduction
          + Twelve Sections of the Boston Terrier Standard
          + The Boston Terrier Standard
       
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Breed Origin

   Although the Boston Terrier is a cute, compact little dog, and you
   have decided you would like to be owned by one, it is important to
   understand the special nature of this little dog and why the breed
   exists. The Boston Terrier requires a certain amount of mental and
   physical activity.
   
   One of the few native American breeds, and often called the American
   Gentleman, the Boston Terrier is a recent addition, comparatively
   speaking, to the realm of purebred dogs.
   
   The handsome little dogs we see today have come a long way since their
   beginnings in the fighting pits of Boston. The Boston Terrier was bred
   from a cross between Bull Terriers and Bulldogs. The first crosses
   occurred in England, and some members of this hybrid stock were sent
   to America.
   
   In 1889, about thirty fanciers in Boston and surrounding cities
   organized the American Bull Terrier Club. Dogs were bred and exhibited
   by these fanciers as "Round Heads" or "Bull Terriers". Bull Terrier
   breeders objected that these crosses were not Terriers. Bulldog
   fanciers objected because they were not Bulldogs. In 1891 the name was
   changed to the Boston Terrier Club of America, (BTCA) and a standard
   was written. They applied for entrance to the AKC stud book, but were
   denied. In 1893, however, the breed was accepted and the first Boston
   Terrier was admitted. He was Hector #28814, by Bixby's Tony ex Dimple.
   
   By 1915 the breed was stabilized and had become the most popular in
   the country. They were number one in registrations of the top twenty
   breeds, when all breeds numbered 22,127. They were on top again in
   1920. The Bostons were back in first place in 1930. The Boston Terrier
   remained in the Top Ten until 1960, but have slipped steadily since
   that time.
   
   The Boston Terrier, refined and standardized, has maintained its place
   in American history as a spunky little dog of intelligence and
   spirit...a fitting representative from Boston commons from whence it
   came.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
The Boston Terrier Club Of America

   The BTCA is designed to protect the breed from proliferation of
   genetic faults, and to ensure the standard of the Boston Terrier.
   Membership includes a quarterly newsletter magazine with breed
   information, interesting articles, and activities throughout the
   country. A major function of the BTCA is education, and many
   informational publications are distributed to assist BTCA members and
   prospective Boston Terrier owners. There are BTCA representatives in
   most states throughout the U.S. to assist in providing information.
   
   If you would like to learn more about the Boston Terrier and the BTCA,
   please contact the Boston Terrier Club of America, or one of our
   affiliate clubs both listed below.
   
   Boston Terrier Rescue is a division of the BTCA, and along with the
   BTCA, is dedicated entirely to the protection and preservation of the
   Boston Terrier.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Care, Exercise, and Grooming

   Boston Terriers are extremely easy dogs to live with wanting only to
   please. Bostons are extremely easy to train. Bostons are strictly
   house dogs, they are not able to cope with extreme cold, nor can they
   deal with extreme heat. Bostons can overheat very quickly due to the
   short muzzle and a slightly elongated palate.
   
   Bostons are active dogs needing daily exercise. They love toys,
   playing fetch, chase, and children. Please remember children need to
   be taught how to handle and care for a pet. The Boston Terrier is a
   short haired dog that sheds minimally. The brushes I have found that
   work the best are: rubber palm brush and grooming mit. The palm brush
   used in a circular motion lifts out dead hair and brings the oil to
   the surface, grooming mit traps loose hair. A grooming session at
   least once a week should be sufficient.
   
   Ear cleaning is a must as is nail clipping.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Health

  Snoring & Snorting
  
   The Boston Terrier possesses a short muzzle or pushed in face. Some
   Boston Terriers may show some degree of airway obstruction. This is
   because the dog has an elongated soft palate. After you have a Boston
   for awhile, you don't even realize that they snore.
   
  Gas
  
   A carefully planned diet, along with regular exercise, will put your
   Boston on the road to a long and healthy life. Proper nutrition must
   begin as a puppy in order to develop strong bone, well-conditioned
   muscles and a natural immunity to diseases and infections. An
   incorrect diet of table foods can lead to gastrointestinal problems in
   the Boston Terrier creating excessive gas. This problem can usually be
   controlled through diet.
   
  Juvenile Cataracts
  
   A very serious genetic disorder in the Boston Terrier and several
   other breeds. Juvenile Cataracts occur between 8 weeks to 12 months of
   age. Some cataracts are clearly visible to the eye, while others are
   diagnosed by a veterinary ophthalomologist by a CERF test. This is a
   serious problem in the Boston Terrier and carrier dogs should not be
   bred.
   
  Hypothyroidis
  
   This can cause many problems and you should ask about this in parents
   and grand parents. This problem can usually be controlled with
   medication.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Frequently Asked Questions

   _Do they bark a lot?_
   
     No. However, Bostons make excellent watch dogs. They take pride in
     defending their masters. They are fearless, often attacking a dog
     much larger than themselves.
     
   _Do they dig? Can I leave them outside in the backyard?_
   
     Yes, most dogs do. They love to bury their bones, toys, etc. They
     can be left outside for short periods. Due to the short muzzles,
     they can not survive outside during the summer/winter months.
     
   _Do they shed?_
   
     Yes, however, regular brushing and bathing will take care of this
     problem.
     
   _Are they good with children?_
   
     Yes. If they are raised with a child, they will usually become that
     child's protector and babysitter. Just remember, children have to
     be taught how to handle a young puppy.
     
   _Would a puppy or an adult dog be better?_
   
     This depends on a lot of different things. For young children, I
     would have to recommand an older puppy or grown dog. One that can
     get away from the children, if the dog will be left alone with the
     children for any length of time. Many times, an elderly person
     would rather have an older dog -- one that does not require as much
     physical activity, etc. Remember, think about this before you add a
     dog to your household. How much time you have to spend with this
     dog or puppy? Are you willing to take the time to housetrain? Are
     your children ready to help handle the responsibility for a pet?
     Can you handle the extra expense of a dog?
     
   _What kind of activities do they like? Walking? Hiking? Obedience?
   Agility? How trainable are they?_
   
     If people are involved, Bostons usually love to participate. They
     love long walks, hiking, etc. Bostons do have a stubborn streak,
     but are very trainable and love obedience.
     
   _How long do they live?_
   
     Bostons have an average life span of 10-13 years. Some longer. My
     oldest Boston lived to be 15.5 years of age.
     
   _How well do they get along with other dogs or pets?_
   
     Bostons get along very well with other pets. I personally have had
     Bostons with cats, horses, ducks, goats, and other dogs. I have
     also known Bostons who hated cats. This is something you hve to
     check on a dog-to-dog basis. Bostons usually like being the "Top
     Dog."
     
   _What would be some reasons I should NOT get a Boston Terrier?_
   
     They must be kept inside. They are active. They need attention and
     want to be played with.
     
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Boston Terrier Rescue

   The BTCA and Boston Terrier Rescue are here to help... We are
   dedicated to the Boston Terrier.
   
   _What is Boston Terrier Rescue?_
   
     It is a network of BTCA affiliate clubs/members dedicated to
     placing unwanted or abandoned Boston Terriers. The Network arranges
     for emergency rescues throughout the country, and gathers
     information designed to match appropriate dogs in appropriate
     permanent and temporary homes.
     
   _What is wrong with the dogs needing rescue?_
   
     The majority of the dogs are simply unwanted by no fault of their
     own. Owners often find that they were unprepared for the care
     required. Owners are often gone all day, and therefore unable to
     provide the time, attention, and level of activity necessary to
     this lovely little dog. Sometimes jobs or life situations change,
     making it impossible for someone to keep their beloved pet.
     
   _Can a dog with behavioral or health problems be put up for adoption?_
   
     Boston Terrier Rescue can not place a dog that is aggressive to
     humans, dogs in poor health (i.e. incurable) are also not suitable
     for adoption. The BTCA Rescue does not function as a clearing point
     for dogs with serious behavior or health problems, but does make
     every effort to assist or counsel when an owner seeks advise that
     might enable them to keep a dog in its current home.
     
   _Can I use a rescue dog for breeding?_
   
     ABSOLUTELY NOT. All animals must be spayed or neutered as part of
     the placement process, and they are placed strictly as pets. Many
     of the dogs rescued are not good examples of the breed standard,
     and often there is no pedigree or record of ancestry.
     
   _Is there a charge to surrender a dog?_
   
     If possible, owners are asked to take full responsibility for
     having the dog's medical requirements up-to-date, including
     spaying/neutering, and a current health certificate as their
     concerned participation in the process. Donations are also helpful
     to assist in the expenses involving the dog's temporary care and
     preparation for placement in a new home.
     
   _Is there a charge for adopting a dog?_
   
     Yes, Boston Terrier Rescue is not a clearing house for free dogs to
     be given to just anybody. Owning a dog requires financial and care
     giving responsibility of the new owner. Relocation costs and travel
     crate is the responsibility of the new owner.
     
   _Who can adopt a dog from the Rescue?_
   
     BTCA Rescue screens prospective owners to be sure they can provide
     suitable homes. Approval is based on, the owners lifestyle (i.e.,
     available time for the dog), and their ability to house the dog
     properly. A fenced yard is required; the dog cannot be allowed to
     run free without supervision. Once a prospective owner is approved,
     the Rescue network then tries to match them up with the appropriate
     dog.
     
   _May I adopt a female?_
   
     Interestingly, most of the Bostons needing homes are males in age
     from one to five. Many people incorrectly think females to be more
     affectionate than males. The Boston Terrier male is a sweet and
     responsive companion. Since all rescue animals are required to be
     neutered as part of the placement process, the gender should not
     matter. Males who are rejected are often nearing sexual maturity,
     and instead of neutering the dog, the owner puts them up for
     adoption. Even when an owner had not desired to breed, they will
     often reject the pet as a result of problems that could have been
     resolved by neutering.
     
   _What if a rescue dog has a problem?_
   
     The Rescue has volunteers who work to adjust behavior problems that
     are not serious in nature. Sometimes telephone advice to present
     owners has given insight into behavioral modifications that has
     saved more than one dog from being displaced from its present home.
     
   _Are shelters and humane societies helpful with Boston Terrier Rescue
   efforts?_
   
     Some are great; others are not at all interested in our
     involvement, and are perhaps over-protective of their wards. Often
     shelters do not know the animal in their keep is a Boston. We send
     letters of introduction and policy, and are listed in Project Breed
     Rescue so that shelters will better know of our intent to help the
     Boston Terrier in a reputable way.
     
   _What can I do to help?_
   
     Never sell a Boston Terrier to anyone, if you think the home
     inappropriate, if only by instinct, do not sell to that person. Do
     the people have children? Do the children mind the adults? If they
     cannot control their children, they will for sure have problems
     with the dog and with the combination of the dog and children.
     
     Be honest about the breed. Plan litters and have good homes
     reserved for them, or do not breed. If you do not have a serious
     breeding program, do not breed. If you think it will make your pet
     complete, you are very wrong. There are too many unwanted pets, and
     certainly too few suitable homes for this special dog. Be
     responsible and committed to the breed. If what you are breeding is
     not a contribution to the future of the breed, please leave it in
     the hands of experienced breeders. Inform and educate others as to
     the special nature and physical and mental requirements of the
     Boston Terrier. Make it understood that although small and cute,
     the Boston Terrier is clearly not for everyone or every lifestyle.
     
     If you can provide a good home for a Boston Terrier, get in touch
     with us immediately. The dogs in need are far ahead of homes
     available. It is a sad and growing problem. Please consider
     adopting and adult dog over having a cute little puppy in your
     life. Puppies grow up fast...an older dog is usually very loyal,
     extremely affectionate towards their new owners, appreciate their
     new homes, never looking back. Most adopted dogs adjust quickly,
     with few adjustments problems. Most importantly, their life depends
     on someone like yourself being willing to give them a chance.
     
   Foster care is an important necessity. If you can provide a temporary
   home for a Boston Terrier in need, drop us a line so that we can enter
   you into our computer files. Check shelters and look for Boston
   Terriers who may need a home if time at that shelter is limited.
   Donations are greatly needed. Rescuing and placing dogs is often an
   expensive process, and Boston Terrier Rescue is operated primarily on
   donations. We need your support. For additional information, please
   call Pam Dupre, 318-899-5681, the Boston Terrier Club of America Breed
   Rescue Secretary. Or write at: 3037 Gray's Creek Road, Dry Prong, La.
   71423. Or contact us at BTCA Project Rescue 1-412-883-4732.
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Resources

  Parent Club
  
   _Boston Terrier Club of America, Inc_
          Marian Sheehan, Corresponding Secretary, 8537 E. San Bruno
          Drive, Scottsdale, AZ. 85258; 602-596-1867
          
   Club Officers 1995-1996
   
   President
          Norman Randall
          
   Vice President
          Ann McCammon
          
   Corresponding Secretary
          Marian Sheehan
          
   Recording Secretary
          Ellen Dresselhuis
          
   Treasurer
          Deana Jones
          
   Board of Directors
          Pam Dupre: Lousiana
          Patricia Holland: Washington
          Susan Kennedy: Arizona
          Roger Perry: Indiana
          Donald VanAvery: Rhode Island
          Breeder Referral West
          
        Pat Stone
                14792 Ronda Dr., San Jose, Ca. 95124; 408-371-7452
                
          Breeder Referral East
          
        Joyce Fletcher
                610 Fern Court, Cincinnati, Ohio 45244; 513-528-3091
                
  Affiliate Clubs
  
        ALABAMBA
                Birmingham Boston Terrier Club
                Gloria Wilson - Secretary, Route 13 Box 13 Jasper, AL
                35501; 205-387-0295
                
        ARIZONA
                Valley of the Sun Boston Terrier Club
                Karen Milham - Secretary, 2421 West Anderson Avenue,
                Phoenix, AZ. 85023; 602-942-8983
                
        CALIFORNIA
                Pasadena Boston Terrier Club
                Betty L Hall - Secretary, 1817 E. Greenleaf Drive, West
                Covina, CA. 91792-1910; 818-965-3660
                
                Boston Terrier Club of San Diego County
                Sherrie Stratton - Secretary, 13645 Choisser Lane,
                Lakeside, CA 92040; 619-443-5345
                
                Golden Gate Boston Terrier Club
                Jeannette Cheeks - Secretary, 3332 64th Avenue, Oakland,
                Ca. 94605; 510-635-3135
                
        CONNECTICUT
                Boston Terrier Club of Connecticut
                Jane Pronovost - Secretary, 104 Homestead Avenue,
                Naugatuck, CT. 06770; 203-729-7784
                
        FLORIDA
                Boston Terrier Club of Miami Florida
                Mary A Hunter - Secretary, 365 Navarre Drive, Miami
                Springs, FL. 33166
                
                Florida Suncoast Boston Terrier Club
                Geraldine Wilson - Secretary, 1870 W. Leewynn Drive,
                Sarasota, FL 34240; President # 813-953-2396
                
        INDIANA
                Western Boston Terrier Club
                Rayetta Waldrop - Secretary, 9318 Grace Street, Highland,
                IN 46322; 219-924-2982
                
                Fort Wayne Boston Terrier Club
                Emily Griffith - Secretary, 4330 Kekionga Drive #1, Fort
                Wayne, IN 46809; 219-747-0882
                
        IOWA
                Hawkeye Boston Terrier Club
                Mary N. Harris - Secretary, 506 SE Sharon Drive, Ankeny,
                IA 50021; 515-964-0556
                
        KENTUCKY
                Boston Terrier Club of Louisville
                Doris Miles - Secretary, 1306 Myra Court, LaGrange, KY
                40031, 502-222-5473
                
        LOUISIANA
                Boston Terrier Club of Louisiana
                Boston Terrier Club of Louisiana Rescue (north)
                Pam Dupre - Secretary/Rescue Contact Person, 3037 Gray's
                Creek Road, Dry Prong, LA. 71423; 318-899-5681
                
                Boston Terrier Club of Louisiana Rescue (south)
                Jane Collins - Rescue Contact Person, 2606 Hundred Oaks,
                Baton Rouge, La. 70808; 504-344-3144
                
        MASSACHUSETTS
                Minuteman Boston Terrier Club
                Nancy Washburn - Secretary, 24 Orange Road, New Salem,
                MA. 01355; 508-544-2319
                
        MARYLAND
                Boston Terrier Club of Maryland
                Faith Howarth - Secretary, 514 Kansala Drive, Annapolis,
                MD 21401; 410-573-5215
                
                Boston Terrier Club of Maryland Rescue
                Rachel Toczylowski - Rescue Contact Person, 8906
                Ardwick(c)Ardmore Rd., Lanham, MD. 21785; 310-322-7464
                
        MICHIGAN
                Boston Terrier Club of Detroit
                Ola Jeanne McCollugh - Secretary, 11353 Island Lake Road,
                Dexter, MI 48130; 313-426-0188
                
        MINNESOTA
                Minnesota Boston Terrier Club
                Arlene Albers - Secretary, 1390 Skywood Lane NE, Fridley,
                MN 55421; 612-571-8964
                
        MISSOURI
                Heartland Boston Terrier Club,br>
                Anita Crowell - Secretary, 12402 NW Porter Road,
                Parkville, MO 64152; 816-891-6367
                
        NEW JERSEY
                Lenape Boston Terrier Club
                Roseanne Zott - Secretary, 169 Magnolia Avenue, Dumont,
                NJ. 07628; 201-584-9485
                
                Tri-Angle Boston Terrier Breeders Club
                Michele DeJulia - Secretary, 109 East 9th Avenue, Pine
                Hill, NJ 08021; 608-784-8179
                
        NEW YORK
                Boston Terrier Club of New York
                Dorothy Gomes - Secretary, 4108 Hill Avenue, Bronx, NY
                10466
                
        OHIO
                Boston Terrier Club of Greater Cincinnati
                Joyce Fletcher - Secretary, 610 Fern Court, Cincinnati,
                OH 45244; 513-528-3091
                
                Boston Terrier Club of Greater Cincinnati Rescue
                Mona Fleming - Rescue Contact Person, 2846 Compton Rd.,
                Cincinnati, Ohio 45251; 513-521-9784
                
        OKLAHOMA
                Oklahoma City Boston Terrier Club,br> Jessie Erwin -
                Secretary, 7432 NW 26th Street, Bethany, OK 73008;
                405-789-9458
                
        OREGON
                Boston Terrier Club of Portland Oregon
                Verla Snook-Fagan - Secretary, 9772 Alsea Highway 34,
                Tidewater, OR 97390, 503-528-3286
                
        PENNSYLVANIA
                Boston Terrier Club of Western Pennsylvania
                Linda Trader - Rescue Contact Person, 127 First Street
                Box 53, Mather, PA. 15346; 412-883-2169
                
        TEXAS
                North Texas Boston Terrier Club
                Adrienne Stern - Secretary, 11631 Sahara Way, Dallas, TX
                75218; 214-327-6758
                
                North Texas Boston Terrier Club Rescue
                Roir Griego - Rescue Contact Person, 15311 Trails End
                Drive, Dallas, Texas 75248; 214-387-0386
                
                Greater Houston Boston Terrier Club
                Maxine Uzoff - Secretary, 7 Briar Hill Dr. , Houston, TX.
                77042; 713-468-3065
                
                Greater Houston Boston Terrier Club Rescue
                Grace MacGillivary - Rescue Contact Person, 907 Joesph
                Drive, Porter, Texas; 713-354-7444
                
        WASHINGTON
                Boston Terrier Club of Western Washington
                Jeff Wojtyna - Secretary, 16431 48th Avenue West,
                Edmonds, Wa 98026; 206-745-2629
                
        WEST VIRGINIA
                Boston Terrier Club of Western Pennsylvania
                Susan Hunter (c) Rescue Contact Person, 275 McCullogh
                St., Morgantown, W.V. 26505; 304-599-9194
                
        WISCONSIN
                Boston Terrier Club of Milwaukee
                Gail Gerlach - Secretary, 4230 Anston Road, Green Bay, WI
                54307; 414-865-7846
                
  Unaffiliated Clubs
  
        CALIFORNIA
                Pacific Coast Boston Terrier Club
                Lil Huddleston - Secretary, 17524 Lanark Street,
                Northridge, CA 91325; 818-344-3487
                
  Books and Magazines
  
          _The Boston Terrier: An American Original_ by Beverly & Michael
          Staley. Published 1995 by Howell Book House.
          
          There are many books on the Boston Terrier that are out of
          print. You can look for these at old book stores, dog shows,
          etc.
          
          _The Boston Quarterly_ Holfin Publishing, Inc., 4401 Zephyr
          Street, Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033; 303-934-5656, 303-422-7000
          FAX.
            __________________________________________________________
                                         
A Look at the Standard

  Introduction
  
          The Boston Terrier Standard was revised on February 28, 1990 to
          clarify and adapt the language so that everyone -- novices,
          exhibitors, breeders, judges, and potential judges -- would
          understand it. There are many definitions for the words
          "standard", but when referring to the Boston Terrier Standard,
          this one is preferred: "A degree or level of requirement,
          excellence or attainment." When you read the breed Standard,
          the words paint a picture of excellence. In any breed Standard,
          there is very little leeway for interpretation. There is only
          one version. Not ours, not yours, but the right one.
          
          The Boston Terrier Standard is divided into 12 sections. Each
          is an important part of the breed. Without excellence in all
          these parts, no Boston Terrier can be an outstanding specimen
          of the breed, no matter how many ribbons it wins.
          
  Twelve Sections of the Boston Terrier Standard
  
          APPEARANCE: describes a number of points. It gives us an
          outline of the dog, shows us the character of the breed and
          artistically requires that the dog not only be in balance, but
          must be well proportioned. It gives a synopsis of the breed and
          tells us without actually using these words, that the perfect
          Boston is a bright, sound, elegant, beautifully moving, typey
          dog, with prescribed color and markings.
          
          General appearance is especially affected by all parts of the
          dog. For example, if the dog is faulted in hindquarters, it can
          not move with determination and an easy and graceful carriage.
          Neither can a dog with too much white showing in his eyes look
          intelligent.
          
          SIZE, PROPORTION, SUBSTANCE: The most important point about the
          weight classification is that each size be in proportion in
          bone and muscle. That does not mean that because a dog is 20
          lbs, it should be coarse and bully. Conversely, an under 15
          pound dog must also be in proportion to its size. As owners or
          breeders, we can have a size preference in the dogs we own or
          breed; judges cannot. However, this section does state that the
          length of leg must balance with the length in body to give the
          dog its striking "square" appearance. You will see that when
          other parts of the dog's conformation are correct, it will also
          help to make the dog appear square.
          
          The influence of sex is really self-explanatory. It should not
          be interpreted to mean that a slight refinement in the bitch's
          conformation allows the muzzle to be snipy or the body long.
          
          HEAD: It is difficult to imagine a square head on a dog, but
          when the skull is square, it will be determined by the set of
          the ears and eyes. The ears should be as close to the corners
          of the skull as possible, with the outside corners of the eyes
          in line with the cheeks. The eye placement and the muzzle
          should both form the lower square of the head. One would
          believe that the correct Boston Terrier expression comes from
          the eyes. This is only partially true. It also comes from his
          upright ears and that exceptional bearing that the Boston has
          that says "I'm something special!" The eyes should be round and
          large with a very minimum of white showing. The eyes should be
          as dark as the coat color, otherwise they will appear even
          lighter by contrast.
          
          Not only should the ears be set properly at the corners of the
          skull, they must be in proportion to the size of the skull and
          the muscles that hold the ear erect must be strong so that the
          ears are held as tightly as possible. Ears like this make the
          dog appear alert and of course help square the head. Ears that
          are set badly, are too large or too small, or without good
          muscles are still apparent to the experienced eye, even if they
          are cropped.
          
          While the muzzle should be short, square, wide and deep, it
          cannot be correct unless the jaw is broad with an even or
          slightly undershot bite.
          
          THE NECK, TOPLINE AND BODY should blend smoothly together, with
          the length of the neck in balance with the body so that the
          head is carried gracefully.
          
          The chest should be deep, and as a rule, in line with the
          elbows. Aside from aesthetics, the main reason for requiring a
          level back is that the power generated in the hindquarters is
          delivered forward by thrust, through the spinal column to the
          forequarters. A straight column of bones delivers thrust to a
          better advantage than one that is curved.
          
          When the ribs are carried well back, the loins will be short.
          If you think of the loins as a bridge between the front and
          rear of the dog, you can understand that a short bridge will be
          stronger than a long one. It will also help to square the body.
          
          The rump curves slightly to a low tail set. A too-flat rump
          usually gives a dog a higher tail set and consequently,
          straighter stifles.
          
          THE FOREQUARTERS or front assembly, help to give the Boston
          Terrier its stylish movement. The shoulders are sloping and
          well laid back. This kind of shoulder requires an angle of 90
          degrees, which gives the dog the proper reach in front. When
          the shoulders are well laid back, the neck will be the proper
          length. A dog with straight shoulders will also have a neck
          that is too short, with a shorter reach of the front legs. When
          the front legs are suspended, they will drop perfectly straight
          without toeing in or out. While we do not call the feet "cat's
          feet", they are cat-like; small round, and compact.
          
          THE HINDQUARTERS provide the power that is needed to give a dog
          the drive or push to propel the front. The stifle must be well
          angulated, with a long upper and lower thigh and the hocks
          should be well let down, or short in comparison, to give the
          dog endurance. When the hindquarters have the correct length of
          bone and angulation, they will be well muscled.
          
          THE GAIT of the Boston Terrier is that "of a sure footed,
          straight gaited dog, forelegs and hind legs moving straight
          ahead in line with perfect rhythm, each step indicating grace
          and power." The key words in this description are "grace and
          power". From this, one can see that the Boston Terrier was not
          meant to move with dysplastic hindquarters or like a wind(c)up
          toy. If he does not move correctly, he cannot convey an
          "impression of determination, strength, and activity, with
          style of a high order, carriage easy and graceful.
          
          COAT texture is often determined by the color of the coat.
          Brindle coats are usually finer than darker colors.
          Fortunately, even though some coats are not as fine as others,
          the quality of the coat is usually determined by the condition
          of the dog.
          
          COLOR AND MARKINGS are very important. They make a Boston look
          like a Boston. Desired markings are icing on the cake. It gives
          that extra bit of flashiness that sometimes is needed, However,
          it will not compensate for other things that they may be
          lacking.
          
          THE TEMPERAMENT of the Boston Terrier is a most important
          requirement of the breed and one we must take care not to lose.
          Without their friendly disposition and intelligence, they
          wouldn't be Boston Terriers.
          
          THE SUMMARY is an abridged version of the Standard..."The
          Boston Terrier in a Nutshell".
          
          THE SCALE OF POINTS is a guide that can be used to determine
          the relative importance of parts of the whole dog. If it is
          used to critique a dog, remember that if the value of one area
          is lowered, it often affects another. There is also one area
          that has not been assigned a point value, without which a
          Boston would be without value and that is excellent
          temperament. Let us not forget it.
          
          Boston Terrier breeder Joseph Balmer said it beautifully for
          us, many years ago... WE ARE THE HEIRS OF THE PAST AND THE
          TRUSTEES OF THE FUTURE.
          
          The standard helps us to safeguard and improve the breed; it is
          our responsibility to protect the Standard.
          
  The Boston Terrier Standard
  
          _GENERAL APPEARANCE_
          The Boston Terrier is a lively, highly intelligent, smooth
          coated, short headed, compactly built, short-tailed, well
          balanced dog, brindle, seal or black in color and evenly marked
          with white. The head is in proportion to the size of the dog
          and the expression indicates a high degree of intelligence.
          
          The body is a rather short and well knit, the limbs strong and
          neatly turned, the tail is short and no feature is so prominent
          that the dog appears badly proportioned. The dog conveys an
          impression of determination, strength and activity, with style
          of a high order; carriage easy and graceful. A proportionate
          combination of "Color and White Markings" is particularly
          distinctive feature of a representative specimen.
          
          "Balance, Expression, Color and White Markings" should be given
          particular consideration in determining the relative value of
          GENERAL APPEARANCE to other points.
          
          Weight is divided by classes as follows: Under 15 pounds; 15
          pounds and under 20 pounds; 20 pounds and not to exceed 25
          pounds. The length of leg must balance with the length of body
          to give the Boston Terrier its striking square appearance. The
          Boston Terrier is a sturdy dog and must not appear to be either
          spindly or coarse. The bone and muscle must be in proportion as
          well as an enhancement to the dog's weight and structure.
          Fault: Blocky or chunky in appearance.
          
          Influence of Sex in a comparison of specimens of each sex, the
          only evident difference is a slight refinement in the bitch's
          conformation.
          
          _HEAD_
          The skull is square, flat on top, free from wrinkles, cheeks
          flat, brow abrupt and the stop well defined. The ideal Boston
          Terrier expression is alert and kind, indicating a high degree
          of intelligence. This is a most important characteristic of the
          breed. The eyes are wide apart, large and round and dark in
          color. The eyes are set square in the skull and the outside
          corners are on a line with the cheeks as viewed from the front.
          Disqualify: Eyes blue in color or any trace of blue. The ears
          are small, carried erect, either natural or cropped to conform
          to the shape of the head and situated as near to the corners of
          the skull as possible.
          
          The muzzle is short, square, wide and deep and in proportion to
          the skull. It is free from wrinkles, shorter in length than in
          depth; not exceeding in length approximately one-third of the
          length of the skull. The muzzle from stop to end of the nose is
          parallel to the top of the skull. The nose is black and wide,
          with a well defined line between the nostrils. Disqualify:
          Dudley nose.
          
          The jaw is broad and square with short, regular teeth. The bite
          is even or sufficiently undershot to square the muzzle. The
          chops are of good depth, but not pendulous, completely covering
          the teeth when the mouth is closed. Serious Fault: Wry mouth.
          Head Faults: Eyes showing too much white or haw. Pinched or
          wide nostrils. Size of ears out of proportion to the size of
          the head. Serious Head Faults: Any showing of the tongue or
          teeth when the mouth is closed.
          
          _NECK, TOPLINE AND BODY_
          The length of neck must display an image of balance to the
          total dog. It is slightly arched, carrying the head gracefully
          and setting neatly into the shoulders. The back is just short
          enough to square the body. The topline is level and the rump
          curves slightly to the set-on of the tail. The chest is deep
          with good width, ribs well sprung and carried well back to the
          lions. The body should appear short. The tail is set on low,
          short, fine and tapering, straight or screw and must not be
          carried above the horizontal. (Note: The preferred tail does
          not exceed in length more than one-quarter the distance from
          set-on to hock.) Disqualify: Docked tail. Body Faults: Gaily
          carried tail. Serious Body Faults: Roach back, sway back,
          slab-sided.
          
          _FOREQUARTERS_
          The shoulders are sloping and well laid back, which allows for
          the Boston Terrier's stylish movement. The elbows stand neither
          in nor out. The forelegs are set moderately wide apart and on a
          line with the upper tip of the shoulder blades. The forelegs
          are straight in bone with short, strong pasterns. The dewclaws
          may be removed. The feet are small round and compact, turned
          neither in nor out, with well arched toes and short nails.
          Faults: Legs lacking in substance; splay feet.
          
          _HINDQUARTERS_
          The thighs are strong and well muscled, bent at the stifles and
          set true. The hocks are short to the feet, turning neither in
          nor out, with a well defined hock joint. The feet are small and
          compact with short nails. Fault: Straight in stifle.
          
          _GAIT_
          The gait of the Boston Terrier is that of a sure footed,
          straight gaited dog, forelegs and hind legs moving straight
          ahead in line with perfect rhythm, each step indicating grace
          and power. Gait Faults: There will be no rolling, paddling, or
          weaving when gaited. Hackney gait. Serious Gait Faults: Any
          crossing movement, either front or rear.
          
          _COAT_
          The coat is short, smooth, bright and fine in texture.
          
          _COLOR AND MARKINGS_
          Brindle, seal, or black with white markings. Brindle is
          preferred ONLY if all other qualities are equal. (Note: SEAL
          DEFINED. Seal appears black except it has a red cast when
          viewed in the sun or bright light.) Disqualify: Solid black,
          solid brindle or solid seal without required white markings.
          Gray or liver colors.
          
          Required Markings: White muzzle band, white blaze between the
          eyes, white forechest.
          
          Desired Markings: White muzzle band, even white blaze between
          the eyes and over the head, white collar, white forechest,
          white on part or whole of forelegs and hind legs below the
          hocks. (Note: A representative specimen should not be penalized
          for not possessing "Desired Markings".) A dog with a
          preponderance of white on the head or body must possess
          sufficient merit otherwise to counteract its deficiencies.
          
          _TEMPERAMENT_
          The Boston Terrier is a friendly and lively dog. The breed has
          an excellent disposition and a high degree of intelligence,
          which makes the Boston Terrier an incomparable companion.
          
          _SUMMARY_
          The clean-cut, short backed body of the Boston Terrier, coupled
          with the unique characteristics of his square head and jaw, and
          his striking markings have resulted in a most dapper and
          charming American original: The Boston Terrier
          
          _SCALE OF POINTS_
          

        General Appearance                      10
        Expression                              10
        Head (muzzle jaw bite skull stop)       15
        Eyes                                    5
        Ears                                    5
        Neck, Topline, Body, Tail               15
        Forequarters                            10
        Feet                                    5
        Color, Coat, Markings                   5
        Gait                                    10

        Total                                   100

          _DISQUALIFICATIONS_
          Eyes blue in color or any trace of blue.
          Dudley nose.
          Docked tail.
          Solid black, solid brindle, or solid seal without required
          markings.
          Gray or liver colors.
            __________________________________________________________
                                         
          Boston Terrier FAQ
          Pam Dupre, LUCY81354@aol.com
