Before choosing a puppy or a dog to bring home, you must know about the breed characteristics, behavior and, most importantly, lifespan to make the right decision. If you have chosen a Boston Terrier to be your companion, one of the questions that probably come to your mind is how long do Boston Terriers live?
The average lifespan of Boston Terriers is 11-13 years, but the good news is that they may live up to 15 years depending on several factors like genetics, diet, environment, and lifestyle.
How Long Do Boston Terriers Live?
While Boston Terriers can live for 11 to 13 years on average, owners can hope to extend the lifespan of the dog with a quality nutritional diet and appropriate lifestyle. That way the dog will not die due to some disease but rather from natural, age related causes.
A study by the American Kennel Club shows that the most common reasons for the death of Boston Terriers are:
- Old age
- Cancer
- Heart failure
- Respiratory problems
- Neurological problems
According to another study conducted by British experts, 8% of the deaths are caused by heart attacks and 16% are cancer related. The Boston terrier’s long life depends on several factors and it is vital to notice the signs of health deterioration as early as possible to extend the dog’s life expectancy.
Boston Terrier Lifespan: Aging Factors
The factors that affect the rate of aging of the breed are health, diet, environment, and genetics.
Health
Boston Terriers are known to be generally healthy and most of their health problems are linked of their flat face. They suffer from eye disorders and often have trouble breathing. Boston Terriers are also prone to overheating.
Common health problems seen in a Boston Terrier include patellar luxation (mis-alignment of the kneecap), cataracts, corneal ulcers, cherry eye, glaucoma, hemivertebrae, entropion, and brachycephalic syndrome.
Diet and Environmental Factors
A healthy and nutritional diet plays a vital role in the breed’s well-being. Below are not-to-do recommendations if you become the owner of a Boston Terrier:
- Feeding processed and commercially prepared food
- Lazy lifestyle and lack of physical activities
- Drinking chlorinated water
- Exposure to a toxic environment inside and around the house
You must adapt the diet plan and the environment of the Boston Terrier to protect and prevent him from premature aging.
Genetics
There are hereditary diseases that Boston Terriers suffers from, most commonly hemivertebrae, glaucoma, and cataracts. The leading cause of these diseases is irresponsible breeding.
As Boston Terriers have large heads, the dogs are likely to be delivered by caesarean section, putting the mother and babies at even greater health risk if the owner or the breeder does not provide appropriate care.
How to Increase a Boston Terrier’s Life Expectancy
Follow a balanced and nutritional diet
An appropriately balanced diet is essential to ensure that your dog gets all the vital nutrients to live a healthy and long life. Make sure you provide your dog with premium veterinary quality food and follow the recommended daily ration.
Antioxidants in diet
Make sure to provide enough antioxidants to your dog as they help protect your dog’s body from the damage caused by free radicals. Common antioxidants include Vitamin A and Vitamin C that can be found in colorful fruits and vegetables but also in premium quality veterinary food.
Hydration
Do not forget the importance of adequate water in the body. As with humans, dogs also need to stay hydrated, especially in a dry and/or warm environment.
Make sure that your dog has access to fresh filtered water. Most dogs need roughly 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight on a daily basis. Therefore, a 15-pound dog will need a bit less than 1 cup of clean water daily.
Dogs that are really active as well as puppies may require more.
Control Body Weight
Maintaining an ideal body weight is the most crucial factor to extend the life of your canine companion. You can get your dog to the ideal body weight with a proper diet plan and an active lifestyle. Please do not give him table food and don’t go over board with treats for training purposes.
Regular veterinary check-ups
Schedule an appointment with your vet for ongoing medical check-ups of your dog. These check-ups and examinations are essential to identify any disease developing in the dog’s system.
Boston Terriers are more prone to eye infections, so regular eye examination is a must and the only way to prevent and treat eye disorders.
Vaccination
The main motive behind vaccinations is to protect your dog against particular infectious diseases that are observed more frequently in dogs.
Keep your dog’s vaccination schedule on target. You may avoid unnecessary vaccinations or opt for an antibody test to determine the essential vaccinations.
Physical and Mental Stimulation
Dogs that do not get the required amount of physical and mental balance tend to become destructive and aggressive, ultimately affecting their health.
Dogs need physical and psychological stimulation throughout their life. Keep adapting the form of exercise and play based on their age.
Keep your Boston Terrier away from toxic and badly ventilated environments
Avoid the use of poisonous chemical products like air fresheners and aggressive cleaning agents to keep a clean and healthy environment for your dog.
Air purifiers, conditioners and humidifiers are welcome to prevent breathing disorders in Boston Terriers.
Creating a toxin-free climate is beneficial not only for your dog but also for the family members.
The Video Corner
Boston Terriers are friendly and easy-going dogs who will give you, as a dog owner, and all the family immense love and joy. In return, you owe your Boston Terrier your best shot at ensuring he lives a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Below are a couple of great videos we recommend on how long do Boston Terriers live: