Boston Terrier cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, reducing the amount of light that reaches the retina and interfering with vision. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and their impact ranges from minor visual impairment to significant vision loss depending on the location, size, and progression of the … Read more
Boston Terriers can experience both congenital deafness, which is present from birth, and acquired hearing loss that develops later in life. Deafness does not automatically prevent a Boston Terrier from having a good quality of life, but identifying the type and extent of hearing loss is important for diagnosis, training, communication, and daily safety. A … Read more
Boston Terriers can develop hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint develops abnormally and becomes unstable. The condition affects how the head of the femur fits into the acetabulum, the socket portion of the hip joint. Poor joint fit can increase abnormal movement and friction, which can gradually damage cartilage and contribute to … Read more
Boston Terrier luxating patella occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position within the knee joint. The condition can affect how a Boston Terrier walks and uses a hind leg, with signs ranging from occasional skipping or briefly holding the leg up to persistent lameness and reduced mobility. The severity is classified into … Read more
Boston Terrier seizures can occur for several reasons, ranging from epilepsy and metabolic disorders to toxin exposure or structural problems affecting the brain. A seizure is a neurological event caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, but having a seizure does not automatically mean a Boston Terrier has epilepsy. Epilepsy generally involves recurrent, unprovoked … Read more
Boston Terriers can develop several types of allergies, including environmental, food, flea, and contact allergies. The most recognizable signs are persistent itching, red or inflamed skin, frequent paw licking, recurrent ear problems, and hair loss. Some dogs may also develop digestive symptoms when the reaction is associated with food. Allergy symptoms occur when a Boston … Read more
Boston Terriers can develop skin problems caused by allergies, bacterial or yeast infections, parasites, skin-fold irritation, and other underlying conditions. Common signs include persistent itching, scratching, red or inflamed skin, bumps, scabs, unusual odor, and hair loss. These symptoms can look similar even when their underlying causes are different, so identifying the visible problem is … Read more
Boston Terriers are prone to breathing problems because their short, flat facial structure can restrict airflow through the upper airway. As a brachycephalic breed, they may have narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, or other structural abnormalities associated with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). These abnormalities increase resistance to airflow, so affected dogs must work … Read more
Boston Terriers are prone to several eye problems, including corneal ulcers, cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, cherry eye, and conjunctivitis. Their large, prominent eyes are more exposed than deeply set eyes, making the eye surface vulnerable to scratches, debris, irritation, and other injuries. Some conditions primarily cause discomfort, while others can damage the eye or affect … Read more
Boston Terriers can develop separation anxiety when being apart from their owners triggers significant stress or distress. Common signs include persistent barking or whining, pacing, destructive behavior, house soiling, excessive panting, and attempts to escape after the owner leaves. However, unwanted behavior while home alone does not automatically mean a Boston Terrier has separation anxiety. … Read more