Today we will explore the world of small dog breeds. The latest trends in canine ownership suggests more and more pet parents and dog owners are looking for a small dog. Simply put, with people moving to apartment living and not house living, the need for a small companion dog is rising.
So, which one should you choose? Today, our topic is Dachshund vs Boston Terrier. Now, as a longtime terrier owner, I can tell you firsthand terriers are usually some of the hardest dogs to take care.
But the Boston Terrier is not your classic stubborn and feisty dog. Instead, he is a true gentleman. Join me as we explore the differences in personality, physical appearance, trainability, exercise needs, health concerns, and everything in between.
If you are looking to bring a new puppy to your house, and you have these two options, I want you to make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Dachshunds and Boston terriers are charming, small dog breeds
- Both breeds are suitable for first-time owners and adapt well to various lifestyles
- They differ in energy levels and maintenance, key factors to consider when choosing a pet
Breed History and Origin
Whenever I talk about the differences of two dog breeds, I always want to start with history. There is nothing more important than history. We often say that those that do not study history, repeat it. Well, if you understand the origin of your puppy, you can easily handle his temperament.
Dachshund Origins in Germany
The Dachshund, a dog breed known for its distinctive long body and short legs, traces back to Germany. They were bred over 300 years ago to hunt badgers; their name even means “badger dog” in German. Tough and brave, these dogs took their hunting tasks seriously, using their keen sense of smell to track their quarry underground.
Because of their unique body, they are also called Wiener dogs. But more on that later on.
Boston Terrier – An American Breed
On the other side, you’ve got the Boston Terrier, a true American creation. They sprouted up in the late 1800s in Boston, Massachusetts. The breed resulted from a cross between the English Bulldog and the now-extinct White English Terrier.
This mix was meant to create a dog that was the best of both worlds: strong and gentle. They became known as the “American Gentleman” for their tuxedo-like coat and polite disposition, fitting right into the American spirit of that era.
Nowadays, canine experts believe that the Boston Terrier puppy was the first American dog breed.
Physical Characteristics
Let’s compare the physical appearance of Dachshund vs Boston Terrier dog, shall we? These two are not closely-looking like the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier, but they are similar in size. The American Kennel Club sets the breed standard for each puppy.
Size Comparison
Boston Terriers and Dachshunds fall on different points of the size spectrum. A grown Boston Terrier typically stands about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, tipping the scales at an average of 10 to 25 pounds. They’ve got a compact build with a square appearance.
On the flip side, you’ve got Dachshunds, and they’re quite the long and low-to-ground crew. They come in two sizes: the Standard Dachshund, which can weigh a hefty 16 to 32 pounds, and the Miniature Dachshund, lighter at around 11 pounds or under. Their height at the shoulders usually maxes out at about 8 to 9 inches.
Color and Coat Variations
If you’re looking for variety in color, both breeds have got you covered. The Boston Terrier sports a sleek coat that comes in black, brindle, or seal (that’s a color that looks black, but has a red cast in bright light), always with white markings. They’re known for their distinguished “tuxedo” look.
Dachshunds have more color options with possibilities including, but not limited to, tan, red, black, and cream. Their coats can be a bit more complex with varieties like smooth, wiry, and longhaired – each one offering a different texture and look. Whether you prefer the velvety smoothness of a short-haired pal or the ruggedness of a wiry coat, these little dogs pack a big punch when it comes to variety.
Personality and Temperament
When picking between a Dachshund and a Boston Terrier, one should consider their unique personalities and temperaments. Both breeds are known for their affection and energy, but they express these traits in their own ways, making them suitable for different families and lifestyles. Nowadays, these two small dogs fall in the same category of apartment dogs like the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu, and Italian Greyhound.
Behavioral Traits
Dachshund dogs are spirited and lively dogs, filled with curiosity and a sense of adventure. With a bold personality, they can be quite stubborn at times, which reflects their origins as determined hunters. This trait may require patience during dog training sessions. Yet, their loving nature makes them eager to snuggle and bond with their owners.
In contrast, Boston Terriers are friendly and affectionate, known for their gentle demeanor. They are energetic and love to play, making them always ready for a game of fetch or a walk in the park. Their protective instincts can show up as a strong attachment to their family, often wanting to stay close to their loved ones.
Boston Terriers might show some terrier instincts and personality traits. But they are not your typical small breed Terrier, like the Jack Russell Terrier, Border Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and other that were bred to hunt vermin at farms in England.
Interaction With Family
Dachshund dogs bond deeply with their family, often selecting a favorite person, but they may need time to warm up to new faces. They’re affectionate but require socialization to ensure their protective nature doesn’t become overly guarded around strangers.
Boston Terriers display abundant affection and are eager to please their families. This makes them loving companions who thrive in the company of their human pack. Their friendliness extends to children and other pets, which coupled with their moderate energy levels, suits them well for a variety of household dynamics.
Exercise and Energy Levels
When deciding between a Boston Terrier and a Dachshund, understanding their activity needs and how well they adapt to living in an apartment is key. Each breed brings its own zest for life, but their exercise requirements do differ.
Activity Requirements
Dachshunds: These little pups have an average energy level. They’re happy with some good quality playtime and walks but don’t need to run marathons to stay content. They’re playful, yes, but you can often find them enjoying a cozy nap after some fun.
- Recommended exercise: 30 minutes to 1 hour daily
- Playfulness: Often enjoy short bursts of play
Boston Terriers: They pack more of a punch in the energy department compared to their Dachshund friends. These dogs need a good dose of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
- Recommended exercise: At least 1 hour daily
- Playfulness: High, they crave interactive games
Suitability for Apartment Living
Dachshunds: Their size and energy level make them fitting for apartment life as long as they get their daily walks and playtime. They’re small enough to move around comfortably in tighter spaces.
Boston Terriers: They may be livelier, but Boston Terriers can thrive in apartments, too. It’s important for them to have opportunities to burn off their energy with walks or play sessions indoors.
Training and Intelligence
When it comes to training Boston Terriers and Dachshunds, their levels of intelligence and ability to learn new commands are both unique. One can expect distinctive experiences based on each breed’s characteristics.
Trainability and Learning Curve
Boston Terriers are known to have a moderate level of obedience intelligence. They tend to pick up new commands after about 25 to 40 repetitions. This places them in the ‘Average Working/Obedience Intelligence Dogs’ category. For novice owners, Boston Terriers can be a good fit as they generally find them quite easy to train.
On the other hand, Dachshunds may present a bit more of a challenge with training. These little dogs have their own minds and though they show average intelligence, sometimes they have their own ideas about following commands. Patience and consistency are key when training a Dachshund.
Mental Stimulation Needs
Both the Dachshund and Boston Terrier need mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. However, their requirements differ.
Boston Terriers often display higher energy levels, so they benefit from interactive play sessions and exercises that get them thinking. Mental stimulation is an important part of keeping them engaged and at their best.
Dachshunds, possessing an average energy level, still require a good amount of stimulation to satisfy their curiosity. They enjoy games that involve hunting behaviors such as sniffing out treats or toys. This speaks to their historical role as skilled hunters, craving activities that utilize their natural instincts.
Health and Lifespan
When it comes to the health and longevity of Dachshunds and Boston Terriers, owners should be aware of each breed’s predispositions and how to care for them to ensure a happy and healthy life.
Common Health Issues
Dachshunds and Boston Terriers may encounter different health challenges during their lives.
Dachshunds are prone to back issues such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) due to their long spinal structure and short legs. They also have a susceptibility to obesity which can exacerbate these back problems. Other health concerns include:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Epilepsy
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus)
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
On the other hand, Boston Terriers commonly face:
- Breathing issues like reverse sneezing, due to their short snouts.
- Eye problems including cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
- Deafness can be occasionally seen.
- Patellar Luxation
- Allergies
- Brain Tumors
- Megaesophagus
- Cushing’s Syndrome
- Cancer, specifically mast cell tumors
- Mitral Valve Disease
Preventive Care and Regular Check-Ups
Preventive care is critical in managing these breeds’ health.
Regular vet check-ups can catch issues like heart murmurs, deafness, and patellar luxation early on.
For both Dachshunds and Boston Terriers, maintaining an appropriate weight is vital to prevent obesity-related issues and joint stress.
Dachshunds benefit from:
- Regular exercise that is easy on the back
- A diet tailored to prevent weight gain
- Avoiding activities that may strain their spine
Boston Terriers require:
- Regular eye exams to detect early signs of eye conditions
- Monitoring for respiratory distress
- A diet to maintain healthy weight and prevent obesity
Owners should speak with their vet about a specific care plan that includes vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and recommendations for daily maintenance to support their pet’s overall wellbeing.
The lifespan normally ranges from 12 to 16 years for Dachshunds and 13 to 15 years for Boston Terriers.
Care and Grooming
When it comes down to keeping a Dachshund or a Boston Terrier, their care and grooming needs are pretty straightforward.
Regular grooming keeps them looking sharp and helps manage shedding, while proper skin care can prevent a host of issues.
Grooming Needs and Tips
Dachshunds come outfitted with a variety of coat types: smooth, long, and wire-haired. Each coat type has slightly different needs.
- Smooth-haired Dachshunds are the low-maintenance pals in the grooming department. A quick brush a few times a week keeps their coat shiny
- Long-haired Dachshunds need a bit more TLC to prevent tangles and mats. Gentle brushing several times a week and occasional trims keep their locks looking lovely
- Wire-haired Dachshunds have a rugged look and require stripping a couple of times a year to remove dead fur and help with the new coat growth
Boston Terriers, on the other hand, have a short, smooth coat that is quite easy to care for.
- A weekly brush with a soft-bristle brush or a grooming mitt keeps their coat in top condition
- Both breeds benefit from regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care
Managing Shedding and Skin Care
Shedding is a fact of dog life, but how much fur you’ll find around the house depends on the breed.
- Dachshunds are moderate shedders, and regular brushing helps keep those stray hairs under control
- Boston Terriers shed less. Even so, a weekly brushing will help to remove dirt and loose fur, and decrease the amount of hair floating around your home
When it comes to bathing, both Dachshunds and Boston Terriers only need it occasionally.
Typically, they should be bathed when they get dirty or start to smell a little off. Overbathing can strip their skin of natural oils, so it’s best to stick to a bath every few months or so, unless they’ve rolled in something they shouldn’t have.
Careful attention to both breeds’ short coats also allows for early detection of any bumps, lumps, or skin issues that should be checked by a vet. Regular grooming goes beyond just looking good—it’s a health check-in too.
Keep it simple and sweet, and these dogs will thank you with wagging tails and happy hearts.
Choosing the Right Dog for You
When you’re looking to add a furry friend to your life, it’s not just about which dog is cuter.
It’s about making sure their personality jives with your lifestyle, and knowing what kind of care and costs go into your new buddy.
Lifestyle Compatibility
Dachshunds and Boston Terriers both make great companions, but they suit different types of people.
If someone’s super active and loves having a lively little partner for daily activities, the Boston Terrier might fit in perfectly since they’re usually full of beans and love to play.
On the flip side, Dachshunds have a hunting background, meaning they’ve got a heap of stamina for their size and like a good sniff around on walks, but they could be a bit more independent.
- Kid-Friendly: Boston Terriers are great with kids, they just love the buzz of a family
- Dog-Friendly: Both breeds can get along with other dogs if they’re introduced the right way
- Stranger-Friendly: Boston Terriers usually don’t mind making new human friends, while Dachshunds might be a bit more wary but will warm up in time
The space at home matters, too.
A smaller living space might be okay for these breeds since neither needs a backyard the size of a football field, but a spot to chill and play is still key.
Cost and Responsibilities
Owning a dog means opening your wallet not just for the initial price, but for a whole pack of things over their lifetime.
Besides food and the usual vet visits, these two breeds have other costs to consider.
For the Dachshund:
- Price: Usually a bit more affordable
- Popularity: Means a bigger pool of experienced breeders
For the Boston Terrier:
- Price: Might be a bit pricier due to their popularity
- Popularity: Also means you’ll need to be careful about finding a reputable breeder
Here’s a simple rundown of what one might need to think about money-wise:
| Expense Category | Dachshund | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Less Expensive | More Expensive |
| Healthcare & Vet | Needs Regular Check-Ups | Prone to Certain Health Issues |
| Grooming | Low Maintenance | Low Maintenance |
| Training & Extras | Can be Stubborn | Easily Trained |
Someone has got to do their homework, meet with breeders or shelters, and spend some time with the dogs themselves to really figure out if a Dachshund or Boston Terrier is the right fit for them.
