Boxer vs Boston Terrier
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
Families, First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Boxer might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
Boston Terrier might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Boxer
The Boxer is a medium to large-sized breed known for its strong, muscular build and distinctive square muzzle. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in various colors, including fawn, brindle, and white. Boxers are known for their playful and energetic nature, making them excellent companions for active families. They are intelligent and highly trainable, but they require consistent training and socialization from an early age. Boxers are loyal and protective, often forming strong bonds with their families. They can be both affectionate and playful, displaying a puppy-like demeanor well into adulthood. Due to their high energy levels, they require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a small, compact breed known for its friendly disposition and distinctive tuxedo-like coat pattern. They typically weigh between 10 to 25 pounds and stand about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. Boston Terriers have a square build, short muzzle, and large, expressive eyes. They are often referred to as 'The American Gentleman' due to their gentle demeanor and refined appearance. Generally, they are intelligent, lively, and affectionate, making them excellent companions. This breed is known for being adaptable, which allows them to thrive in various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. Their playful nature and moderate exercise needs make them suitable for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Very social with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Light shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Boxer
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Feeding
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Boston Terrier
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat weekly to reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Feed high-quality dog food suitable for their age and size.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Grooming
Brush their coat weekly to reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size.
Feeding
Feed high-quality dog food suitable for their age and size.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
Additional Care Notes
Boxer
- •Spend time socializing and training to enhance behavior.
Boston Terrier
- •Maintain dental hygiene with regular brushing and dental treats.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Boxer
Boxers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Consistency and patience are key, as Boxers can be stubborn at times. Socialization with other dogs and people is also essential during their early development stages.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness can lead to resistance during training sessions
- •High energy levels may result in difficulty focusing on commands
- •Boxers may become overly excited, leading to impulsive behaviors
- •Separation anxiety can make crate training and alone time challenging
- •Strong prey drive may distract them during outdoor training sessions
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as these dogs can become bored quickly. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness when not motivated
- •short attention span leading to distractions
- •excessive barking if not properly trained
- •separation anxiety if not accustomed to being alone
- •possible dominance issues with other pets
Boxer
Boxers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Consistency and patience are key, as Boxers can be stubborn at times. Socialization with other dogs and people is also essential during their early development stages.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness can lead to resistance during training sessions
- •High energy levels may result in difficulty focusing on commands
- •Boxers may become overly excited, leading to impulsive behaviors
- •Separation anxiety can make crate training and alone time challenging
- •Strong prey drive may distract them during outdoor training sessions
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as these dogs can become bored quickly. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness when not motivated
- •short attention span leading to distractions
- •excessive barking if not properly trained
- •separation anxiety if not accustomed to being alone
- •possible dominance issues with other pets
Training Resources
Boxer Training Guide
Boston Terrier Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Boxer Breeders
Find Boston Terrier Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.