Boston Terrier Characteristics
Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years
Adult weight: 10 – 25 lbs.
Adult height: 18 – 22 in.
Origin – United States
The charming and fun-loving Boston Terrier is a popular dog breed known for its tuxedo-like coat and friendly personality. But before welcoming one of these adorable pups into your home, it's important to consider the costs involved. This guide will break down the typical costs associated with Boston Terrier ownership, including buying or adopting, monthly expenses, and one-time costs.
How Much is a Boston Terrier?
The initial price of a Boston Terrier can vary depending on whether you choose to buy from a breeder or adopt from a shelter.
Buying a Boston Terrier: $1,00 - $2500
The price of a Boston Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $900 to $2,5004, with an average cost of around $1,300. Several factors can influence the price:
Lineage: Puppies with strong pedigrees or champion bloodlines tend to cost more.
Coat Color: Rare coat colors can increase the price.
Health and Temperament: Puppies with verified health clearances or exceptional temperaments may be priced higher.
Breeder Reputation: Established breeders who prioritize health and responsible breeding often charge more.
Location: Prices can vary depending on the region and local demand. Here are typical regional estimates for Boston Terriers across the U.S.4:
Northeast: $1,200 – $2,500
South: $1,000 – $2,500
Midwest: $1,000 – $2,500
West: $1,100 – $2,400
Northwest: $1,200 – $2,300
Adopting a Boston Terrier
Adopting a Boston Terrier from a shelter or rescue organization is a more affordable option, typically costing between $100 and $300. This fee often includes spaying or neutering, microchipping, and initial vaccinations. Adoption not only saves you money but also provides a loving home to a dog in need. If you decide to adopt, check out our dog adoption guide to help prepare for your new companion.
Monthly Boston Terrier Costs
Owning a Boston Terrier goes beyond the initial adoption or purchase fee. Here's a breakdown of the ongoing monthly expenses you can expect:
Dog Food
Boston Terriers are not particularly demanding eaters. Depending on their age and activity level, expect to spend $50 to $70 per month on high-quality dog food.
Grooming
These sleek-coated dogs require minimal grooming. Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush, along with nail trimming and ear cleaning, can be done at home. Factor in the cost of shampoo and other grooming supplies, which might amount to around $50 initially.
Medical Costs
Regular veterinary checkups and preventive care are crucial for your Boston Terrier's health. Budget around $400 to $700 annually for vet visits, vaccinations, and parasite prevention. This cost can increase if your dog develops any health issues. Keep in mind that Boston Terriers can be prone to develop cataracts and patellar luxation.
Entertainment and Environmental Costs
Boston Terriers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to entertainment. A few dog toys and chews (around $20-$30) can keep them happy. Environmental costs like poop bags, waste disposal, and cleaning supplies might add another $10 per month.
Expert Insights From Spot
According to Spot’s internal data, the claims most often submitted for Boston Terrier are claims for heartworm and flea medications, rabies and Bordetella vaccinations, and special diets, foods, or supplements. Spot has received over 500 claims from pet parents of Boston Terrier for heartworm and flea medications, over 750 claims for Bordetella and rabies vaccinations, and over 150 claims for special diets, foods, or supplements. If you do decide to add a Boston Terrier puppy to your family, we hope that this information will help give you an understanding of the kinds of veterinary services the breed may need during their life.
One-Time Expenses for Your Boston Terrier
In addition to monthly costs, there are some one-time expenses to consider when welcoming a Boston Terrier:
Initial Supplies
New dog parents will need essential items like a bed, dog crate, food and water bowls, a leash and collar, and a harness. These initial setup costs can range from $400 to $500.
Vaccinations
Puppies require a series of core vaccinations to protect them from preventable diseases. Expect to spend $280 to $300 on these initial vaccinations. Additional non-core vaccinations recommended by vets might add another $130 to $150.
Microchipping
Microchipping your Boston Terrier is a one-time cost of around $50-$70 (may vary by state) and can significantly increase the chances of finding your pet if they get lost.
Miscellaneous
Throughout your dog's life, you might incur occasional expenses like pet sitting, dog walking services, travel pet fees, or park entrance fees. Setting aside an additional $100 per month for such unforeseen costs is a good idea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Boston Terriers so expensive? Boston Terriers are costly because reputable breeders invest in health testing, quality breeding programs, and proper care for both parents and puppies, ensuring healthy dogs with good temperaments.
Is a Boston Terrier a good pet? Yes — Boston Terriers are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and apartment living alike.
Which is more expensive, a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog? French Bulldogs are generally more expensive than Boston Terriers, often costing twice as much due to their breeding challenges and high demand.
Is a Boston Terrier high maintenance? Not really — Boston Terriers are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal grooming and moderate exercise, though they do need regular vet care and attention to their sensitive breathing.
How Old is a 14-Year-Old Boston Terrier in Human Years? While a direct conversion from dog years to human years isn't perfect, a general rule of thumb suggests that the first two years of a dog's life are equivalent to roughly 21 human years each. After that, each dog year is roughly equivalent to four human years. Therefore, a 14-year-old Boston Terrier would be considered roughly equivalent to a 70-year-old human.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer a wide variety of coverages from microchip implantation to surgery and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight management are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options. Get in touch with us to learn more!
Key Takeaway
The charming Boston Terrier can be a wonderful companion, but it's important to factor in the financial responsibility of caring for one. By considering both adoption and purchase costs, budgeting for monthly expenses, and planning for one-time fees, you can make an informed decision about welcoming a Boston Terrier into your life. Remember, the cost of pet ownership goes beyond finances – it's a lifelong commitment of love and care.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
Divina, Arlene. “Cost of a Boston Terrier Puppy by US Region [2024].” IHeartDogs.com, 3 Jan. 2024, iheartdogs.com/cost-of-a-boston-terrier-puppy-by-us-region/.
