How long do Boston Terriers live?
The Boston Terrier has an average lifespan of 13—15 years if well-cared-for. With that said, all dogs are prone to develop genetic health issues, which may shorten their lifespan if immediate vet care is not provided.
The Boston Terrier breed can potentially suffer from genetic disorders, such as:
Patellar Luxation
A Boston Terrier can develop patellar luxation, which is a very common orthopaedic problem in this breed. It occurs when the kneecap is dislocating, resulting in pain and limping. Prompt vet treatment should be provided to the affected dog. Or else the condition may lead to other health issues such as arthritis and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
A Boston Terrier that has a mild case of luxating patella will need to be prescribed medications and supplements to strengthen the joints. In other cases, a Boston may need knee braces.
Massaging the affected area can be done as well, so the patella is placed back to its original position. If you opt for this treatment, you will first need to consult the vet. Severe cases will require surgery and rehabilitative therapy.
Cataracts
The Boston Terrier dog has bulging eyes, which are quite prone to eye problems. Cataracts are one of them. This degenerative ocular disease can cause blindness. The Boston Bull often suffers from juvenile cataracts. It can lead young dogs to lose their eyesight permanently.
A Boston Terrier with this condition has cloudy eyes and difficulty in moving from one place to another. The dog may also incessantly scratch the affected eyes. Cataracts can be removed through surgery. Cataract operation has a high success rate, but the vet will first need to check if your Boston Terrier is a suitable candidate.
Buy a Boston Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder. Their puppies and dogs should be health-screened for eye diseases. This will help you choose a puppy that is less likely to inherit cataracts from his parents.
Corneal Ulcer
The Boston Terrier dog breed can suffer from corneal ulcers. It causes the eyes to become cloudy and very painful. Corneal ulcers can occur because of trauma, viral or bacterial infections, and other diseases.
The vet will prescribe antibiotic drops or ointments for treatment. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
The Boston Terrier, being a flat-faced or brachycephalic breed, is very vulnerable to this health problem. The syndrome is a result of abnormalities in the upper airway. It can cause several respiratory problems, including nasopharyngeal turbinates, laryngeal collapse, and everted laryngeal saccules.
Signs that your Boston Terrier has the disease include coughing, vomiting, noisy breathing, and gagging. Inflammation in the airway and heart problems may occur if the condition is not treated. Medications, exercise restriction, and weight management are suggested for mild cases. If these treatments aren't effective, surgery may need to be performed.
The Boston Terrier may need to undergo eye, knee, and hearing evaluation to check how likely he is to develop these health problems.
The Boston Terrier dog can stay inactive indoors and would love nothing better than to cuddle or snuggle with his family. However, he will need daily exercise too. A Boston Terrier puppy should have 5 minutes of exercise every day, whilst an adult Boston Terrier requires at least an hour of exercise. A senior Boston will only need 40 minutes of exercise or lesser.
The Boston breed does well in various dog sports, especially in agility and fly ball. So try incorporating these activities into your Boston Terrier dog's exercise routine.
Since the Boston Terrier dog is a brachycephalic or flat-faced breed, he cannot withstand hot temperatures. He is extremely at risk of overheating or heatstroke because of his inability to properly regulate his body temperature. Thus, be sure to walk him during cooler parts of the day, such as in the early morning or the evening.
Avoid over-exercising the Boston Terrier since he is prone to joint-related health problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation.