The ‘American Gentleman’ as the Boston Terrier is sometimes called is a friendly and lively companion that loves spending time with their family. The Boston Terrier is a descendant of the English Bulldog and was developed in the United States in the 1870s. They are a popular pet choice for many families as they make great indoor dogs and require minimal exercise.
When it comes to finding the best food for your Boston Terrier, it is important to consider their nutritional needs as puppies, adults, and seniors. We have evaluated the most suitable diet for Boston Terriers in 3 categories;
- Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers Puppies
- Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers adults
- Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers seniors
Understanding the energy and nutritional requirements of Boston Terriers:
Boston Terriers are classified as a small-sized breed and they have a life expectancy of 11-13 years.
Their ideal weight as an adult is 10-25 pounds (4.5-11.3 kg).
Female Boston Terriers tend to be on the lower end of the weight spectrum while males are on the higher end.
As a small-sized dog breed, below are some important things to understand
- Boston Terrier puppies have up to 20 times the metabolism of regular puppies. Small-breed dogs mature quickly and they can be considered adults by the time they reach 9-12 months old. Puppies of this breed have very high energy levels and they require a diet that is rich in calories and nutrients to support their rapid growth.
- It is important to get dog food brand with the right amounts of calcium and phosphorus and the ideal ratio of Ca:P, which is 1.2:1. Too much calcium can cause skeletal problems while too little can lead to rickets.
- The ideal fat content for Boston Terrier puppies is between 8-12%. Puppyhood is the time when your dog will be growing the most and it is important to provide them with the right nutrients to support their growth. Boston Terrier adults have a relatively high metabolism and they require a diet that is rich in calories and nutrients.
- Adult dogs of this breed typically weigh between 10-25 pounds (4.5-11.3 kg). The ideal fat content for Boston Terrier adults is between 10-15%.
- This breed is prone to weight gain and it is important to monitor their food intake and exercise levels to prevent obesity.
- As they age, Boston Terriers tend to become less active and they may start to gain weight. It is important to adjust their diet accordingly and make sure they are getting the right nutrients. The ideal fat content for Boston Terrier seniors is between 10-15%. Boston Terriers are a relatively healthy breed but they are prone to certain health conditions such as allergies, respiratory problems, and joint issues. The best dog food for Boston Terriers should be nutritionally balanced and provide the right amounts of calories, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.
When choosing the best food for your Boston Terrier, it is important to consider their age, activity level, and health conditions. Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs and it is important to select a dog food that meets those needs.
Table of Contents
11 Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers
- The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food – Best Overall
- Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food – Best Value
- Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dry Food – Best for Puppies
- Natural Balance Diets Grain-Free Dog Food
- American Journey Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Diamond Naturals Adult Dry Dog Food
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Weight Dry Dog Food
- Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Dry Dog Food
- Royal Canin West Highland White Terrier Dry Dog Food
Buying Guide for the Best Dog Food for Boston Terriers:
What makes good dog food for Boston Terriers?
Protein: Quality protein, preferably from fish or poultry, is essential for all dogs but it is especially important for Boston Terriers. This breed is prone to respiratory problems and allergies and a diet that is high in quality protein can help to prevent those conditions.
Fat: Fat is an important source of energy for dogs and it helps to keep their coat healthy. The ideal fat content for Boston Terriers is between 10-15%.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for dogs but they should be limited in order to prevent weight gain. The best dog food for Boston Terriers will contain complex carbohydrates such as brown rice or sweet potatoes.
Vitamins and minerals: A nutritionally balanced diet is important for all dogs but it is especially important for Boston Terriers. This breed is prone to joint problems and a diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals can help to prevent those conditions.
Factors to consider when choosing the best dog food for Boston Terriers:
Age: Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs and it is important to select a dog food that meets those needs.
Activity level: Active dogs need more calories than sedentary dogs and it is important to select a dog food that matches their activity level.
Health conditions: Dogs with certain health conditions may require special diets and it is important to consult with your veterinarian before selecting a dog food.
Ingredients You Should Avoid Feeding Boston Terriers
- Bones from chicken or fish: Don’t feed your Boston Terrier chicken or fish bones. They can splinter and cause choking or digestive blockages.
- Corn, wheat, or soy: Many dogs are allergic to corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients can also cause digestive problems.
- Artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives: These ingredients are not necessary and can be harmful to your dog.
- Cat food: Cat food is not appropriate for dogs and can cause health problems.
- Human food: Human food is not nutritionally balanced for dogs and can cause digestive problems.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant and can be harmful to dogs.
- Theobromine: Theobromine is found in chocolate and can be toxic to dogs.
- Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is poisonous to dogs.
- Chocolate: Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and should be avoided. Grapes: Grapes are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
- Raisins: Raisins are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
- Macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
- Onions: Onions are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided. Garlic: Garlic is poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
- Avocados: Avocados are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided. Cherries:
- Cherries are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
- Garlic: Garlic is poisonous to dogs and should be avoided.
How to Feed Your Boston Terrier
Your Boston terrier requires between 30 and 40 calories per pound of his body weight as a tiny breed.
This means an adult Boston Terrier needs about 1000 to 1400 calories per day.
On average, give about one to 1 ¾ cups daily or 650 calories a day for a 20-pound dog. To avoid the trouble of determining which brand to pick, choose dog food products formulated for smaller-breed dogs.
Unique Needs of Your Boston Terrier
Vision issues: A Boston Terrier’s eyesight isn’t as sharp as that of other dogs. He may have trouble seeing in low-light conditions and may be hesitant to go outside at night.
Brachycephalic syndrome: This is a condition that affects short-nosed dog breeds, such as the Boston Terrier. It can cause respiratory problems, including snoring and difficulty breathing.
Joint problems: Boston Terriers are prone to joint problems, such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. These conditions can be painful and lead to arthritis.
Dental problems: Because of their small mouths, Boston Terriers are prone to dental problems, such as overcrowding and tooth loss.
Patellar Luxation: This is a condition in which the kneecap dislodges from its normal position. It can be painful and lead to arthritis.
Caring for Your Boston Terrier
The best way to keep your Boston Terrier healthy is to provide him with a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and regular vet check-ups.
Exercise is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for Boston Terriers because they are prone to weight gain. Try to give your dog at least 30 minutes of exercise every day.
Boston Terriers are also prone to several health problems, so it is important to take them to the vet for regular check-ups. Be sure to ask your vet about how often you should bring your Boston Terrier in for a visit.
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Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
