Labor Day weekend is right around the corner guys … and it’s a great opportunity for you and your Boston Terrier to do something fun!

Plan a Picnic

Picnics are tons of fun! And lots of parks allow dogs to tag along. Just be sure to check with the park before finalizing plans and remember if your dog doesn’t do well in crowds, it may not be a good idea.

Barbeque in the Backyard

Barbeques are also a ton of fun and very common on Labor Day.  Invite your friends and their dogs over to cook- out, go for a swim and celebrate the end of summer (and a day off work)!

Doggy Beach!

If you live near a beach- look into whether the beach has an area where dogs are allowed to play! What better way to spend Labor Day than at the beach with your Boston Terrier?!

Just remember, if you plan to spend a lot of time outside this Labor Day, make sure you bring plenty of drinking water, food, and shade. Boston Terriers are especially prone to breathing problems in extreme heat.

To top off the weekend: think about making this Doggie Ice Cream for your Boston Terrier!

Related posts:

1. 10 Things To Consider Before Getting Your Boston Terrier From A Pet Store

Just the other day my boyfriend gave me the best massage ever! I mean it was absolutely amazing – lotion, candles, the whole nine yards!

We started to wonder if our Boston Terrier, Lucy, ever gets sore, and needs a massage too.

Which got me thinking …

Lucy is a very active little lady, and her muscles probably do need to be massaged from time to time.

So as usual … I researched it like a crazy dog lady. I hope you find my research somewhat, sorta interesting. Enjoy!

So Why Massage?

Massage therapy is a natural way to help your dog maintain a better quality of life.

We all know that dogs are very emotional, just like people. They have feelings, memories, thoughts, anxiety, etc.

Researchers have actually studied the effect of “touch” on puppies. It was determined that puppies deprived of “touch” at a young age suffered from:

• Small stature
• Stress dwarfism
• Poor social skills
• Depressed immune systems
• And more

Their whole perception of the world is smaller. They’re weaker and more susceptible to disease and injuries … and are usually the runt of the litter – the one that’s rejected by his mother for some reason or other. They’re always thinking and acting in “protective mode.”

Puppies that DO receive the benefit of human touch are generally healthier, happier, and more willing to accept affection and training. These dogs will need to to be touched throughout their lives in order to feel affection and reassurance.

What Does Massage Therapy In Dogs Accomplish?

Typically when someone describes the benefits of massage therapy, they list only the physical benefits. Massage therapy increases circulation, enhances flexibility, improves metabolic efficiency, helps develop muscle tone, and helps increase the depth and rate of aspiration in dogs.

Unfortunately, many dogs don’t get enough exercise, which can result in an array of health problems for dogs.

But the good news is that massage therapy can counteract these health risks by increasing circulation. One massage session is almost equivalent to a half-hour leisurely walk in the park.

Dogs that are massaged may also benefit from the psycho-social interactions during massage sessions. What on earth does that mean? Simply that, massage enhances their trust quotient, which helps to make their connection with humans stronger. This bond is important for behavior modification, education, and training.

Maintain Assessment Of Your Dog

If you’re massaging your dog on a regular basis, you’ll become familiar with him/her and be able to detect anything that pops up that’s out of the ordinary. Examples are: bumps, lumps, rashes, hair loss, weight gain, etc.

Medical massage is also very effective in helping dogs that have recently undergone surgery and are in the process of rehabilitation.

Benefits of Dog Massage

• Relieves pain
• Alleviates stress
• Loosens tight muscles
• Increases flexibility
• Reduces recovery time after surgery
• Increases circulation
• Releases endorphins
• Helps puppies fell comfortable with people
• Useful in assessing your dog for physical changes
• Increases bone density
• Builds muscle mass
• Reduces edema

Now that you know a little more about doggie massage therapy, let me encourage you to give it a try. Remember, it will greatly benefit your sweet Boston Terrier! And let me know if you have any comments or questions. Just leave a comment below.

Related posts:

1. 7 Ways To Help Prevent Your Dog From Getting Cancer
2. Cushing’s Disease In Bostons

Dog parks seem to be a somewhat controversial subject for a lot of dog owners. Some people think dog parks are best things since sliced bread, while others thing they are dangerous and traumatizing places for dogs.

Your local dog park is a great place for you and your dog to get exercise and have fun, provided that it’s well maintained and well monitored.

However, be warned that not all dogs that go to the dog park are social creatures. You should always be on the lookout for a possible rebel!

Dog parks often have a sense of community amongst them. A group of “regulars” usually monitor dog park behavior and make sure that problems are kept to a minimum.

You may also have heard of membership dog parks. These are dog parks where people are required to pay a membership fee to use the park … the funds go towards the up-keep of the park. Membership parks have certain advantages such as: they usually offer more supervision, and screening before dogs are granted dog park privileges.

Dog Behavior

Your dog should be:

• Friendly and out-going
• Confident and social
• Well-mannered
• Responsive to basic commands
• Healthy

Human Behavior

If you’re considering taking your dog to the dog park for the first time, it may be a good idea to go by yourself first. Check out the park “culture” and see if you think it will be a good fit for your pup.

If you decide that you think it might work, go during non-peak hours the first few times.

Here are a few basic rules to follow:

• Always obey posted dog park rules.
• Don’t bring young children.
• No treats, toys, or food (this may cause conflict between other dogs.)
• No puppies under 4 months of age.
• Always supervise your dog’s behavior and be ready to intervene if necessary.
• Always, always clean up after your dog.
• Don’t take your dog into the dog park on a leash (mixing dogs on and off the leash sometimes causes aggression).

Video of Boston Terriers Playing At The Dog Park

Related posts:

1. Does Your Boston Terrier Misbehave At The Dog Park? Mine Does.
2. Puppy Biting and Nipping
3. Put An End To Your Boston Terrier’s Jumping Problem

If your Boston Terrier puppy has a problem with biting or nipping, there’s no need to freak out just yet.

You can help prevent this behavior by giving your dog plenty of exercise, socialization training, and basic training skills.

When you do correct your dog, you should never use physical correction (like spanking or holding your dog’s mouth closed); however, you should address the biting or nipping immediately with a positive distraction.

It’s actually very common for Boston Terrier puppies to nip or bite when they play. You may notice that your puppy “mouths” other dogs when playing with them. This is your puppy’s normal way of interacting with other animals and they often carry over this behavior over to when they are playing with humans.

Puppy biting or nipping is sometimes a sign of aggression, but it’s usually just a bad habit− that’s rather difficult to break!

It’s not uncommon for this “mouthing” behavior to stop once your dog develops his adult teeth. If it doesn’t stop, however, use a “positive distraction,” rather than physical punishment to correct your dog’s behavior.

I can’t stress how important it is to develop a relationship that is based on love and trust with your dog.

Not Sure If Your Dog’s Behavior Is “Normal”?

Here are some behaviors that suggest aggressive behavior in Boston Terriers:

• Growling (prolonged and deep tone)
• Fixed Gaze
• Stiff Posture
• Non-spontaneous aggression

Usually aggressive behavior is related to fear, pain, or possessiveness. If you’re very concerned about your dog’s behavior, it doesn’t hurt to talk to your vet about it.

Distraction Methods

If your Boston Terrier starts with his chewing or mouthing then try and distract him. Maybe offer him a chew toy or something to gnaw on.

Promoting Proper Play-Time

If your puppy does nip you, you should ouch (or something to that effect) and walk away. Your puppy will begin to realize that when he bites you, you go away … and eventually he’ll stop.

Related posts:

1. Socializing Your Boston Terrier Puppy
2. Using Puppy Pads
3. Is Your Puppy Eating Poop? Here’s Why …

If you’ve just adopted a Boston Terrier, Congratulations! I wish you all the best. Now here’s a list of 10 things you should do to make your Boston Terrier feel at home.

1. Get to know your dog. Gather as much information you can about your dog. Ask the shelter personnel about the dog’s behavior and daily routine. Try to stick to the dog’s feeding, exercise, and grooming routine.

2. Outline responsibilities in your home. Figure out who is going to be in charge of walking and feeding the dog. Also establish boundaries for your dog. Is she or isn’t she allowed on the furniture? Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page.

3. Get a “check-up.” Take your new dog to the vet for an exam. Have her checked for heartworms and make sure he/she is spayed or neutered.

4. Relax. Give your dog a few days to get used to his new home before introducing him to new people and
pets.

5. Protection. Make sure your pet feels safe and secure. If he’s used to sleeping in a crate, make sure he can do so at your house too.

6. Take him outside. When you adopt a new dog, regardless of what the shelter has told you, you should assume the dog is not housetrained. Take him out frequently, to prevent accidents.

7. Be Active. Your new Boston Terrier wants to be your friend and play with you. This will help strengthen the bond between you.

8. Find a school. Even the dog is well trained, you should consider enrolling your new dog in obedience classes; learning together establishes you as the leader.

9. Use a leash. If you’re forced to chase your dog, escape will become a game to your dog. Trust me, this is not good!

10. Patience. Your dog will adjust to his new life, but it may take some time … so be patient and you’ll have yourself a happy enduring relationship in no time.

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If you’re planning on traveling with your Boston Terrier ─ here are some quick tips to make sure the trip goes smoothly.

First of all, you should not go on a long car trip with your dog if you haven’t already taken her on short, local trips. Take your Boston for short, fun car rides several times to get her used to the idea.

Boston Terriers can get carsick. So, if you’re planning a long car trip, you should plan on traveling with your pet when he/she has an empty stomach. If your pup does get car sick, there are also medications available through the vet that help.

Make sure you’ve given your Boston Terrier the opportunity to “go potty” before you depart.

Things to Pack:
Leash
Waste Bags
Paper Towels
Bath Towel
Flea Spray
Health Certificate
Medical and vet information

What Not To Do:
Leave your dog in the car unattended with the leash on (she could hang herself).
Let your Boston stick her head out the window (debris can get in her eyes).
Leave your dog in the car in extreme temperatures (cars heat up very quickly).

Share your Boston Terrier vacation story with me, leave a comment below.

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Boston Terriers are not delicate little lap dogs by any means. They are small, sturdy, and are generally good-natured with other people and animals. Boston’s are energetic dogs that love to play and chase things!

Here are some things that you will have to learn to love if you have a Boston Terrier:

• Snoring, drooling, snuffling
• Gassiness
• Playfulness

Here are the main concerns that most people have when adopting a Boston. You should take all of these factors into consideration before you adobt a Boston Terrier.

Unstable Temperament
If you get your dog from a good breeder, this should not be an issue. Unfortunately, many breeders don’t have the slightest idea how to breed a good-tempered dog. Dog trainers have reported Bostons that have neurotic behavior such as barking, hyperactivity, and aggression. Training is key and you will need to train your Boston to respect you.

Housebreaking Can be Arduous
Boston’s are rather slow at being housebroken. It could take up to 4-6 months of dedicated crate training.

Sounds
Not everyone loves all the little snorts, snuffles, wheezes, and grunts! They have a short face, they can’t help it.

Slobbering
When Bostons drink, they slobber quite a bit, they have loose jowls and can’t really help this either.

Gassiness
Boston Terrier’s have a gas problem that will make you run for cover!

Chronic Health Problems
Again, this is due to over-breeding and poor breeding practices. Make sure you do your research about your breeder before adopting a puppy.

Remember, every Boston Terrier is going to be different. Boston’s are like people, each one has a unique personality. In spite of all the “Boston Terrier Concerns,” I LOVE MY BOSTON and I wouldn’t trade her for the world!

Now here are all the reasons you should get a Boston Terrier!

Best Companions
Boston Terriers are the best companions. They won’t leave your side, and will love you to no end.

World’s Best Kisser and Snugglers
Boston’s are the world’s best kissers, and snugglers! They especially like to get under the covers with you.

They Can Hold Their Own
Boston’s can hold their own at the dog park, you don’t have to worry about your dog getting trampled at the dog park. They like to play with big dogs.

They’re Funny
Boston’s will make you laugh. Forget TV, just watch the dog!

Smart
Boston’s love to learn. They want to do everything they can to please you, so it makes teaching them tricks, very easy. They’re super smart!

Suggestion: If you are interested in getting a Boston Terrier but you’re worried about some of the “negative characteristics,” you should definitely look into adopting an adult Boston Terrier.

You will know exactly what you are getting … no surprises! Plus, there are tons of Boston’s that need a good home, check out rescue shelters.

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Have you ever wondered what kind of relationship you have with your dog?

After 28 in-depth interviews with dog owners David Blouin, a cultural sociologist at Indiana University South Bend, said that most dog/owner relationships fall into these 3 categories.

Humanist
Dogs are highly valued and they are considered a close companion.

Protectionist
Might be vegetarians, these people value animals in general, not just as pets.

Dominionist
See animals as separate and less important than people. They might use their dog for hunting and pest control. The dog most likely lives outside.

People develop these relationships as a result of personal experiences, demographic characteristics, and family structure.

People that live in rural areas were more likely to leave their dog outside while “empty-nesters” were more likely to become attached to their pet.

If you have a Boston Terrier, it’s best to develop a humanist relationship with her. Boston’s require a lot of love and attention and would not do well being if lumped in either of the other 2 categories.

References:

Indiana University (2009, August 19). A Dog’s Life: Relationships Between Dogs, Owners Fall Into Three Categories. ScienceDaily. Retrieved September 2, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com¬ /releases/2009/08/090810025813.htm

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Your Boston Terrier has gone missing! What next? Don’t panic.

Start searching immediately. Start searching inside your house first, Boston’s are small and they can get themselves stuck in some strange places! If your Boston can’t be found inside move to the outside of your house.

Check underneath vehicles, in drains, sewers, etc. Boston Terriers like to explore and they may have ended up in the wrong place!

You may want to recruit help from your friends and family. They can assist you in your search.

You may want to create an ad or announcement and leave it in high visibility areas such as parks, gas stations, or grocery stores in your neighborhood.

You should provide your search team with a written description of your pet as well as your pet’s latest photo.

Don’t lose hope without giving a fight. The possibility of finding your Boston Terrier can be strong only if you are determined enough to do so.

Also, many pets are registered with micro-chips these days. If your pet has one of these, any animal control or humane society that happens to pick up your pet will be able to trace your pet back to you.
You should also call local animal shelters, rescues, pounds, and humane societies.

Good luck! Hope you find your friend soon.

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Boston Terriers often develop separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is a disorder that is characterized by a state of extreme panic due to the dog being separated from her owner.

Boston Terrier’s are very social animals and needs lots of social interaction and companionship. Of course no dog wants to be left alone for long periods of time; however, some Bostons take it especially bad.

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety:

•Your Boston will get very anxious when you are about to leave. (she’ll know when she hears your keys jingling, or see you put on your shoes, etc.)
•She might follow you around the house and whine and shake.
•Some Boston’s can even become aggressive when trying to stop their owners from leaving.

Once You’ve Left

Your Boston Terrier’s anxious behavior will only worsen once you are gone. It usually peaks within about 30 minutes of your departure.

Your Boston might do any of the following in her anxious state:

• Bark endlessly
• Scratch and dig at the windows and doors
• Chew inappropriate objects
• Urinate or defecate inside the house
• Self-mutilate by licking or chewing her skin (extreme cases)

When you come home, she’ll most likely be overly excited. Your Boston will bounce around you in a frenzy of delight for a drawn-out period of time. (More than the usual 30 seconds)

A lot of owners misunderstand this “welcome home greeting” and encourage their Boston to get worked up upon their return. This can have some serious repercussions though. If you find yourself doing this, you should think twice the next time you’re tempted to encourage this behavior. You’re actually supporting your Boston’s belief that your return is the greatest moment of the day.

When it’s time for you to leave again, her happiness is under threat once again, and she’ll get even more distressed when you have to leave.

Remember, if at all possible, try not to leave your Boston by herself for long periods of time. She needs lots of attention and love. If you can’t be home to care for her, make sure someone else is!

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