Boston Terrier Health Issues: Common Concerns and Prevention Tips

Being brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, Boston Terriers have a distinctive short muzzle which, while giving them their characteristic appearance, can also lead to certain health challenges. Some of these health issues include respiratory problems, as well as a susceptibility to eye injuries and heart murmurs. Our expert veterinarian on breed predisposition to health problems, Dr. Alex Gough, DVM, emphasizes the importance of being vigilant for signs of such issues and consulting with your vet promptly to manage your dog’s health effectively.

Your Boston Terrier’s health can greatly benefit from routine vet checkups. These visits are crucial for early detection and treatment of any health complications. Your vet can guide you on how to care for your Boston Terrier, paying special attention to their unique needs. By understanding and addressing the health issues of your Boston Terrier, you will be able to enjoy the companionship of this affectionate breed for many years to come.

So, Do Boston Terriers Tend To Have Health Issues?

Boston Terriers are prone to certain health issues including brachycephalic syndrome due to their short snouts, leading to breathing difficulties. They may also face eye problems like corneal ulcers, and are susceptible to joint diseases such as patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for their well-being.

When looking at Boston Terriers, it’s important for you to know they can have specific health issues. Their distinctive brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy can lead to breathing difficulties, known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This is something you might notice if your dog snores or breathes loudly.

Boston Terriers can also have problems related to their eyes, such as cataracts, which can cause vision issues. They have large, prominent eyes that are prone to injuries and diseases.

Here’s a quick look at common health concerns:

• Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues due to their short nose.
• Eye problems: Their big eyes can lead to cataracts or ulcers.
• Skin allergies: They have sensitive skin that can get irritated.

Their grooming is pretty simple due to their short coat, but you should keep an eye on their skin for any signs of redness or irritation.

In terms of behavior, these dogs are known to be energetic and playful. They need regular exercise to keep them healthy, but be mindful of their breathing issues during activities. Always ensure they are not overexerted.

Boston Terriers may not be as large as some other dog breeds, but they still need your attention and care to manage these potential health issues. Regular visits to the vet can help you spot and take care of any problems early on. Your Boston Terrier’s health relies on your knowledge and action in preventing or managing their unique health challenges.

Common Boston Terrier Health Conditions

When you own a Boston Terrier, it’s important to be aware of some health conditions they might face. This knowledge helps you look after your canine companion better.

1. Ear Conditions

Boston Terriers may face issues with their ears, one of which is chronic ear infections. Due to their structure, ear canal inflammation or otitis externa can be more prevalent. It is important for you to regularly check your dog’s ears for any signs of infection, which may include redness, discharge, or an unusual odor.

In addition to infections, hearing impairments can affect these dogs. Inherited deafness is a significant concern, and around 9.0% of Boston Terrier puppies are born with this condition. The risk of being born deaf is often linked with certain coat colors, specifically merle or white, due to a genetic defect involving the piebald gene.

• Deafness: Some puppies may be born without the ability to hear. Once hearing loss is suspected, it’s crucial to have your dog tested for deafness, as early intervention can improve your dog’s quality of life.
• Ear Infections: Keep an eye out for symptoms like head shaking, scratching at the ears, or any discomfort around the head area, as these could indicate an infection.

If you notice something amiss with your Boston Terrier’s ears, visiting a veterinarian should be your immediate course of action. Professionals can provide a more detailed assessment and recommend appropriate treatments. Early and proper care can help maintain your dog’s ear health and overall well-being.

2. Respiratory Challenges

Boston Terriers, like other brachycephalic breeds, often face distinct respiratory challenges due to their short noses and flat faces. A common condition affecting these dogs is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can cause significant breathing difficulties.

Recognizing BOAS:

• Loud or labored breathing;
• Difficulty cooling down after exercise; and
• Potential sleep disruption due to troubled breathing.

If your Boston Terrier shows any of these signs, it could be an indicator of BOAS. It’s important to consult a vet, as this condition can impact your dog’s overall health and quality of life.

Tracheal Concerns:

Another respiratory issue in Boston Terriers is tracheal hypoplasia, where the trachea is narrower than normal. Symptoms can include a honking cough or wheezing.

Managing Breathing Issues:

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight.
• Avoid stressful, hot environments.
• Consider harnesses over collars to reduce neck pressure.

Unfortunately, due to their conformation, Boston Terriers are at risk for birth-related issues like dystocia, which although not a direct respiratory challenge, can be linked with the physical traits that contribute to conditions like BOAS.

Taking proactive measures and staying informed about your Boston Terrier’s respiratory health can help manage these challenges effectively. If you notice anything unusual about your pet’s breathing, please seek veterinary advice promptly.

4. Dermatological Problems (Skin Problems)

When you own a Boston Terrier, you might notice they can have skin issues. Their short fur and unique facial structure mean they sometimes face dermatological challenges. Let’s take a look at some common skin problems in your Boston Terrier.

Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy): If your Boston Terrier is constantly scratching or rubbing their face and feet, or if they often get ear infections, these could be signs of atopic dermatitis. It’s a kind of allergy where your dog reacts to things in the environment, like pollen or dust mites. The skin becomes red and itchy, making them uncomfortable.

• Symptoms:
  • Itching;
  • Redness; and
  • Ear infections.

Calcinosis Circumscripta: Although less common, calcinosis circumscripta involves the deposit of calcium in the skin, which leads to bumps or nodules. These can be found usually on the feet or other areas where there is less fur. It often needs a vet’s care to be diagnosed and treated.

• Typical Locations:
  • Feet; and
  • Less furry areas.

Localized Parakeratotic Hyperkeratosis: This skin condition is characterized by thickened, crusty patches of skin, particularly over pressure points such as elbows. It’s as if the skin produces too much keratin in these areas. Boston Terriers can be prone to this condition.

• What to look for:
  • Thickened skin; and
  • Crusty patches.

For all of these conditions, you will need your vet’s guidance. Treatments can include medications, special shampoos, or sometimes changes in diet. When you see signs of discomfort or changes in your Boston Terrier’s skin, don’t wait. Get them checked out so they can get back to being their happy, playful selves.

5. Ophthalmologic Concerns (Eye Problems)

Boston Terriers are predisposed to several eye problems that may affect their quality of life. Understanding these conditions can help you take proactive measures to care for your dog’s vision.

Cataracts occur at a higher prevalence in Boston Terriers compared to mixed breeds. This clouding of the lens often leads to impaired vision and can progress to blindness if not addressed. There are early-onset and late-onset forms, suggesting different genetic factors may be involved. After cataract surgery, known as phacoemulsification, these dogs have an increased risk of postoperative complications, including glaucoma.

Secondary glaucoma, an increased pressure within the eye, can further damage the optic nerve following surgery. Be alert for signs of discomfort or vision loss, as early intervention is critical. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of Boston Terriers may require more drastic interventions, such as enucleation (eye removal), due to severe complications.

Cherry eye, indicated by a protrusion of the third eyelid’s gland, can also occur. While it doesn’t typically lead to blindness, the condition can cause discomfort and chronic problems if not corrected. Regular check-ups can help catch such issues early on.

Other conditions like lens luxation, where the lens moves from its normal position, or traumatic proptosis, which is the displacement of the eye from the socket often due to injury, are serious conditions that necessitate immediate veterinary attention.

Uveal cysts are less common but should still be monitored, especially since secondary issues could arise if they interfere with vision or the health of the eye.

It’s essential to recognize the importance of regular ophthalmological examinations for your Boston Terrier, which help in early diagnosis and management of these conditions. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome for your dog’s sight and quality of life.

6. Neurological Disorders

Boston Terriers may face various health issues, and among them are neurological disorders that can affect their quality of life. It’s important for you to be aware that these disorders can range from mild to severe and may require veterinary attention.

Congenital cerebellar disorders are one type of neurological issue that can arise in Boston Terriers. These can result from genetic factors that lead to malformations in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement. An example of such a condition is the Dandy Walker-like syndrome, where an affected Boston Terrier might display symptoms like incoordination or abnormal movements.

Common Signs:

• Incoordination;
• Abnormal head or body posture; and
• Difficulty with complex movements.

In addition to congenital issues, Boston Terriers can also be prone to acquired neurological diseases, such as epilepsy. Epilepsy is a disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are disruptions of the normal brain activity. Seizures can manifest as unusual behaviors or movements and can be distressing to witness.

Management Tips:

• Keep a log of seizure activity;
• Maintain a calm environment; and
• Follow your vet’s dietary and medication recommendations.

If you suspect your Boston Terrier is showing signs of a neurological disorder, it’s crucial to have them examined by a veterinarian who can diagnose the issue accurately and prescribe an appropriate treatment plan.

Bear in mind that swift action can make a significant difference in the management of neurological disorders. Early intervention often leads to a better prognosis for your companion. Your awareness and responsiveness to these health concerns are vital to your Boston Terrier’s wellbeing.

7. Cardiovascular Health

When looking after your Boston Terrier, it’s important to be aware of common heart conditions they may face. Vertebral Heart Scores (VHS) have provided evidence that breeds like Boston Terriers can have higher values even without evident heart disease. It means they might have a larger heart size compared to other dogs.

You should know about two key heart issues:

• Pulmonary hypertension: This can lead to the right side of the heart working harder. If your dog has trouble breathing or tires easily, it could be a sign of this condition.
• Heart disease: This isn’t one illness but many that can affect your Boston Terrier’s heart in different ways. Look out for symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or breathing difficulties, and talk to your vet if you notice anything worrying.

Here’s a simple checklist for keeping an eye on your Boston Terrier’s heart health:

• Regular check-ups with the vet;
• Recognizing signs of breathing problems or tiredness; and
• A balanced diet and exercise.

Studies suggest that breeds like Boston Terriers are at risk of higher VHS values, which you can read more about in the publication Vertebral heart scores in eight dog breeds. Furthermore, details on cardiac diseases in dogs and specifics regarding Boston Terriers can be found in the article Cardiac diseases in dogs. It’s essential for you to stay observant and proactive about your dog’s heart health.

8. Orthopedic Issues

When caring for your Boston Terrier, it’s important to be aware of potential orthopedic problems that can affect their quality of life. These smaller dogs have a unique build that can predispose them to certain conditions.

• Patellar Luxation: This is when the kneecap slides out of place. If your Boston Terrier is limping or skipping steps, this could be why.
• Hemivertebrae: Some bones in their spine might be oddly shaped, leading to possible back problems.

Hip Dysplasia is less common in small breeds like Boston Terriers but can occur. Your dog might show signs of discomfort or reluctance to run and play if they have hip issues.

Remember, early detection is key:

• Keep an eye on how your Boston moves and plays.
• Schedule regular vet checkups.
• Maintain a healthy weight for your dog to lessen joint stress.

Here’s a quick look at what to watch for:

Sign	Possible Issue
Limping	Hip Dysplasia
Hesitant to move	Patellar Luxation
Back arching	Hemivertebrae
Difficulty standing	General Joint Issues

If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian. They can offer advice or treatment options, ensuring your furry friend stays happy and active.

9. Renal and Urinary Conditions

When you have a Boston Terrier, you need to be aware of some kidney and urinary issues they might face.

Kidney Problems: Your Boston Terrier’s kidneys filter waste from their blood to make urine. If these organs aren’t working right, waste builds up in their body and makes them sick. This might start when they’re a puppy or show up when they’re older.

• Juvenile Renal Disease (JRD): This happens in puppies and can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). You’ll notice they drink and pee a lot, and they may feel sick. Their blood and urine tests will show what’s happening.

Urinary Problems:

1. Hypospadias: This is a birth defect where the opening where urine comes out isn’t at the tip of its pee area. It can cause infections and trouble peeing. Boys are more likely to have it. If your Boston Terrier has this, they might need surgery to fix it. A sign to look for is urine causing skin problems in areas it shouldn’t touch.

Remember, if your Boston Terrier seems off or is peeing weird, it’s a good idea to talk to the vet. They’ll check them over and tell you what’s going on. Catching these things early helps a lot.

10. Reproductive Issues

When you have a Boston Terrier, it’s important to know about their possible reproductive issues, especially because they can impact your dog’s health and wellness. One significant concern in Boston Terriers is dystocia, which is the medical term for difficult birth. This means your Boston Terrier might have trouble delivering puppies naturally.

You should look out for signs that your Boston Terrier is having a challenging time giving birth, such as intense labor without puppies being delivered or the mother appearing overly tired. It’s noted that certain breeds, including Boston Terriers, may have a higher frequency of dystocia compared to others.

Here are things you need to know about dystocia in Boston Terriers:

• Causes:
  • Small pelvis size;
  • Large puppy size; and
  • Poor uterine contractions.
• What to Watch For:
  • Strong contractions lasting over 30 minutes with no puppy birth;
  • More than two hours between delivering puppies; and
  • Signs of puppy distress.

If your Boston Terrier faces such problems, it’s crucial to have a vet on call. They might need medical attention to ensure a safe birth. Despite reproductive challenges, with proper care, Boston Terriers can have healthy pregnancies. It’s wise to have regular vet check-ups and plan ahead for any potential issues during the birthing process. Taking these steps should help you keep on top of their reproductive health.

Nutrition and Diet

When it comes to your Boston Terrier’s health, nutrition and diet are as important as regular check-ups. A well-balanced diet supports your dog’s energy levels and helps prevent nutrition-related health issues.

Proper Feeding

You must be mindful of what, when, and how much your Boston Terrier eats. Serve dog food that’s rich in nutrients and suited for their age, size, and energy requirements. Adult Boston Terriers should have two meals per day, whereas puppies may need three to four smaller meals to support their growth. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and measure their food to maintain a healthy weight.

Dietary Allergies

Boston Terriers can be prone to dietary allergies that manifest in skin irritations or gastrointestinal problems. Pay attention to signs such as itching or an upset stomach after your dog has eaten. Some common allergens include beef, dairy, and wheat. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult your vet. They might recommend a diet formulated for sensitive dogs, like a homemade diet to reduce the chance of allergic reactions.

Obesity Prevention

Keeping your Boston Terrier at a healthy weight is crucial. Overweight dogs can face a higher risk of joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. Ensure your dog gets regular exercise to burn off excess calories. Avoid giving too many treats, and if necessary, switch to a weight management dog food formula. Remember, proper portion control goes a long way in preventing obesity and keeping your pet in tip-top shape.

Routine Health Care

Taking care of your Boston Terrier’s health means regular veterinary check-ups, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, and maintaining dental hygiene. These preventative steps can help reduce the risk of health problems down the line.

Veterinary Visits

You should schedule regular Vet Check-Ups for your Boston Terrier. These visits are crucial for early detection of Health Problems and for keeping your pet healthy. Experts recommend a check-up at least once a year, but puppies and older dogs may need to see the vet more often.

• Puppy (Under 1 year): Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old
• Adult (1-7 years): Once a year
• Senior (8+ years): Twice a year

Vaccinations and Preventive Medicine

Vaccinations protect your Boston Terrier from serious diseases. Your vet will create a vaccination schedule tailored to your dog’s needs. It usually includes core vaccines like rabies and DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza).

• Core Vaccinations:
  • Rabies: As required by law
  • DHPP: Every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine used
• Preventive Medicine: Includes heartworm prevention, flea and tick control, and deworming.

Dental Health

Dental Care is as important for your dog as it is for you. Dental issues can lead to other health concerns if bacteria from the mouth spread to other parts of the body. Regular brushing and vet cleanings can prevent problems like tartar build-up and gum disease.

• At-Home Care: Brush your dog’s teeth several times a week.
• Professional Cleanings: As recommended by your vet, usually once a year.

Life with a Boston Terrier

Living with a Boston Terrier means embracing a dynamic lifestyle that’s full of activity, training, and understanding their unique behavioral patterns. These dogs are affectionate companions, so you’ll never feel alone.

Exercise and Activity Levels

Your Boston Terrier needs regular exercise to stay healthy, with a good balance between playtime and rest. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. This can include walks, fetch, or agility exercises. Remember, they are brachycephalic, meaning they have short noses, so they can be prone to overheating. Monitor their activity, especially in warm weather, to ensure they don’t overexert themselves.

• Morning walk: 15 minutes
• Evening play: 15 minutes
• Weekly: 1-2 more intense play sessions

Training and Socialization

Training your Boston Terrier is a key aspect of their care. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to positive reinforcement methods. Consistent training sessions will help establish good manners and obedience. Boston Terriers also benefit greatly from early socialization to get along well with other pets and people.

• Start early: Puppy classes
• Be consistent: Daily short training sessions
• Socialization: Regularly introduce new people and friendly pets

Behavioral Expectations

Understanding your Boston Terrier’s behavioral expectations is vital. These dogs are known for being affectionate and friendly. They crave attention and love to be part of your daily life. But sometimes they can be stubborn. You need to be firm yet gentle in your guidance. Set clear boundaries, and your Boston will thrive, offering you companionship and love in return.

• Daily cuddles and play time for bonding
• Firm, calm commands to discourage stubbornness
• Engage with interactive toys to keep them mentally stimulated

Breeding and Genetics

When you think of Boston Terriers, their distinct tuxedo coat and expressive faces might come to mind. However, it’s essential to understand that their breeding and genetics can lead to certain health issues.

Genetic Predispositions

Boston Terriers are predisposed to several genetic health issues, particularly due to their distinctive skull shape. This breed commonly experiences conditions related to its brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature, such as respiratory challenges. For instance, issues like Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can be significant. Moreover, their genetics make them prone to eye problems such as cataracts and corneal ulcers. It’s worth noting that genetics play a crucial role in the overall health of Boston Terriers, impacting conditions that range from heart disease to luxating patellas.

Responsible Breeding Practices

To minimize the health issues associated with Boston Terrier genetics, responsible breeding practices are vital. This includes:

• Health screening: Breeders should conduct pre-breeding health screenings for prevalent conditions in the breed.
• Genetic testing: Certain tests can identify carriers of specific diseases, helping to prevent passing on severe genetic disorders to offspring.

By focusing on genetic diversity and avoiding the mating of closely related dogs, breeders can reduce the incidence of inherited conditions. Moreover, ethical breeders will prioritize the health and welfare of the dogs over specific aesthetic traits that could compromise their quality of life.

Detailed Health Issues

As an owner of a Boston Terrier, it’s essential to know about specific health issues that can affect your pet. From eye conditions to skin problems, understanding these issues can help you keep your dog healthy and comfortable.

Eye Conditions and Treatments

Boston Terriers often face eye conditions such as:

• Cataracts: A condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, possibly leading to blindness. Treatment may involve surgery to remove the cataracts.
• Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can cause severe pain and vision loss. Treatment options include medications and surgery.
• Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Your dog’s eyes don’t produce enough tears, leading to redness and irritation. Eye drops or ointment can help keep the eyes moist.
• Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the cornea which can become infected. Treatment typically includes antibiotic or antifungal medication.
• Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the eye’s outer membrane. Treatment often involves eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation.

Skin Issues and Care

Your Boston Terrier’s skin issues may include:

• Skin Allergies (Atopy): Itchy and inflamed skin due to allergies. You can manage this with medication and special shampoos.
• Inflammation: Causes redness and swelling of the skin. Treatments include medications to reduce allergic reactions and soothe the skin.

Congenital Anomalies

Some conditions your dog might be born with are:

• Elongated Soft Palate: This can cause breathing difficulties. Surgery may correct this issue.
• Stenotic Nares: Narrow nostrils that can lead to breathing challenges. Surgical intervention can help widen the nasal passage.
• Everted Laryngeal Saccules: An outpouching in the larynx that can obstruct airflow; sometimes requiring surgical removal.

Ear Problems

Typical ear problems in Boston Terriers include:

• Ear Infections: Caused by bacteria or yeast. Keeping the ears clean and dry is essential, and treatment often requires medicated ear drops.

Living with Health Challenges

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly nature, but they can face significant health challenges. As a pet owner, it’s essential for you to understand and manage these concerns effectively.

Daily Management of Health Issues

Your Boston Terrier may have several health issues that require daily attention. Brachycephalic breeds like Boston Terriers often struggle with breathing issues due to their short snouts, which can lead to Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. It’s crucial to minimize rigorous exercise and keep them in a climate-controlled environment. Regular health checks can help monitor for signs of commonly associated conditions such as corneal ulceration and eye problems.

Pain Relief and Physical Therapy

If your Boston Terrier suffers from pain due to health issues like luxating patella or other joint problems, your vet might recommend pain relief medications. Additionally, physical therapy may be beneficial, including exercises specifically designed to strengthen the musculature around the joints, reducing discomfort and improving mobility.

Adapting Your Home for a Special Needs Boston Terrier

To accommodate a special needs Boston Terrier with health challenges, make slight adjustments to your home. For those with eye disease, ensure the paths are clear of obstructions to prevent injury. Breathing problems can be minimized by avoiding smoky areas and using air purifiers to ensure clean air. For skin conditions like mange, mast cell tumors, or pattern baldness, maintain a clean and stress-free environment to avoid exacerbating these issues. And, for heart conditions such as Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Mitral Valve Disease, keeping a serene home can help manage your dog’s stress levels and overall heart health.

Costs of Ownership

When considering a Boston Terrier as a pet, you should understand that the cost of ownership includes not only the initial price of the dog but also continuous healthcare expenses.

Initial Expenses

Your first investment in a Boston Terrier will cover the price of the puppy, which varies on factors such as pedigree and breeder reputation. This cost often ranges from $600 to $1,200. In addition, you’ll have to purchase supplies like a bed, leash, collar, food and water bowls, and toys. A one-time set of initial vaccinations and a wellness checkup are also part of the initial veterinary care you should budget for.

Ongoing Health Care Costs

Routine check-ups and preventive medications for issues common in Boston Terriers, such as vaccinations and heartworm prevention, can cost a few hundred dollars a year. Boston Terriers are known for specific health issues tied to their brachycephalic (short muzzle) structure, which may lead to expensive treatments for breathing difficulties or overheating. 

For example, treating pyometra, a serious uterine condition, can imply considerable medical management costs. Additionally, eye conditions like cataracts are common in the breed, potentially resulting in surgeries like phacoemulsification. Routine expenses often escalate if your Boston Terrier develops a chronic condition, which can happen despite the best preventive care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before exploring your questions about Boston Terrier health issues, it’s critical to identify common conditions, treatment approaches, gender specific concerns, behavior-related health aspects, signs of illness, and life expectancy.

Conclusion

When caring for your Boston Terrier, it’s essential to be aware of their health needs. These dogs are known to be affectionate companions, and with proper attention, they can enjoy a full life span. A typical Boston Terrier may live anywhere from 11 to 13 years. To support their well-being, it’s vital to understand common health issues that may affect them.

• Eye Conditions: Boston Terriers can have eye problems such as cataracts. Regular check-ups can detect issues early.
• Breathing Difficulties: Their short noses make them prone to breathing challenges. Keeping them at a healthy weight is crucial.
• Joint Issues: Be mindful of signs of joint discomfort as they can develop conditions like patellar luxation.

Keep a close eye on their health and maintain routine veterinary visits. Feeding them a balanced diet and ensuring they get regular exercise are key to managing weight and mitigating health risks.

Remember, your affection and care can make a significant difference in the quality of life for your Boston Terrier. Keep up with their health needs, and you both can enjoy many happy years together.