Boston terrier

American  

noun

1. one of an American breed of small, pug-faced, short-haired dogs having erect ears, a short tail, and a brindled or black coat with white markings.

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Boston terrier British  

noun

1. a short stocky smooth-haired breed of terrier with a short nose, originally developed by crossing the French and English bulldogs with the English bull terrier

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Etymology

Origin of Boston terrier

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

When Louise Burns noticed that her dog Bow was breathing oddly in October 2023, she took the Boston terrier straight to the vet.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

In the dark Norco garage, Abruzzo agonized over leaving behind dozens of animals, including the tiny Boston terrier he delivered.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 12, 2024

The next day, the dog’s owners brought in their second dog, another Boston terrier, who also tested positive for the virus.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 8, 2024

The death of their beloved Boston terrier, Charlie, was a driver in the decision.

From New York Times • Aug. 1, 2023

The two dogs are Lupin, a Boston terrier, and BeBop, a tricolor Welsh corgi.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel