What is an Average Boston Terrier Weight?

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The Boston Terrier is a dapper little fellow, overly attractive with its tuxedo-like coat and compact size. With several types of Boston Terriers and different living conditions, you may be wondering what is an average Boston Terrier weight? The answer depends on the age, gender, genetics, and health.

What is an Average Boston Terrier Weight?

The average Boston Terrier weight ranges from 10 to 25 pounds. Adult male Boston Terriers typically weigh 15 to 25 pounds, while female ones weigh anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds. 

Graphic image of a Boston Terrier and a weighing scale that explains what the average weight is for Boston Terriers

Boston Terrier Weight Categories

While Boston Terriers have an average weight of 10 to 25 pounds, the American Kennel Club divides the breed’s weight into three categories:

  • Under 15 pounds
  • 15 pounds and under 20 pounds 
  • 20 to 25 pounds 

The chart below gives me a general idea about a Boston Terrier’s weight. To help monitor your Terrier’s health, it would be beneficial to schedule your pet for regular checkups and weight scaling.  

AgeApproximate Weight in Pounds
Birth0.48 pounds
1 Month2.53 pounds
2 Months4.40 pounds 
3 Months6.61 pounds
4 Months8.81 pounds
5 Months12.12 pounds
6 Months14.33 pounds
7 Months16.09 pounds
8 Months19.84 pounds
9 Months20.94 pounds
10 Months21.29 pounds
11 Months22.05 pounds
12 Months 23.14 pounds

Weight Differences Between Male and Female Boston Terriers

A female Boston Terrier’s body stops developing at 12 months. On the other hand, body maturity for male Terriers may take up to 14 months, causing them to have slightly larger bodies. Nevertheless, both genders of Boston Terriers are very close in weight and height. 

Boston Terrier lying in the grass
Weight Height at Withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades)
Female Boston Terriers10 to 20 pounds 16 inches 
Male Boston Terriers 15 to 25 pounds17 inches 

A female Boston Terrier at three months should be between 4.4 and 10.3 pounds. At six months, it may grow between 7.9 to 18.7 pounds. When it hits adulthood at one year, a female Terrier can be lightest at 10 pounds and heaviest at 24 pounds. 

Meanwhile, a three-month-old male Terrier weighs anywhere between 4.4 to 10.3 pounds. A male Terrier may get heavier at 7.9 to 18.7 pounds once it reaches six months old. At one year, the smallest Terriers can be 10 pounds, whereas the largest ones can be 25 pounds. 

Weight-Related Health Issues on Boston Terriers 

A Boston Terrier with no weight problems is less likely to develop these health problems.

  • Obesity: Lack of exercise and excessive calories are a dangerous combination for dogs. 
  • Weight Loss: Insufficient food intake, excessive loss of nutrients due to diarrhea, and high energy demands can all prevent Boston Terriers from achieving a healthy weight.   
  • Heart Disease: Heart failure is among the leading causes of death for senior Boston Terrier dogs, with 75% of the cases coming from mitral valve issues. Uncontrolled weight and poor oral hygiene can lead to heart problems. 
  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Boston Terriers are one of the brachycephalic breeds, which means they genetically feature shortened skull bones, resulting in flat faces and short noses. Fat deposits in the chest and around the airways can hamper breathing. Thus, increased blood flow and obesity can raise the likelihood of breathing difficulties.  
  • Weak Bones: Excess weight can slow down the growth of cartilage, which protects the joints. Likewise, lack of exercise strains the joints, causing stiff and weak bones. 
  • Reproductive Difficulties: Underweight Boston Terriers may experience reduced milk yield and increased neonatal mortality. Meanwhile, overweight Terriers may have smaller litter sizes and a higher risk of false pregnancy. 
Dog sitting in the grass

Controlling Boston Terrier Weight

Like humans, my pets must control their weight to stay within the average weight and avoid diseases. These are simple ways I can do to help my Boston Terriers enjoy healthier lives.

  • Dedicate exercise times: Given the breed’s high energy level, most Boston Terriers need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. You can divide it into two to four sessions of playing, walking, or running. 
  • Switch to organic treats: Instead of commercial treats, which are often high in fats and sugar, you can give chunks of fruits like apples and bananas. You can also try vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini. 
  • Follow a meal plan: Avoid overfeeding your pet as they can turn excessive carbohydrates into stored fat. 
  • Schedule meal times: Scheduling meal time will program a dog’s stomach to become hungry at your set time. Adult Terriers only need to eat twice a day, whereas puppies require three to four meal times to ensure they grow strong. 
  • Ensure adequate rest: Terriers have high energy levels, and puppies are among the most energetic yet sleepiest pets. Even hyper Terriers would want to sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day. 
Boston Terrier with a healthy weight

Addressing canine obesity and other health issues can cause financial burdens to owners, as well as pain for my pets. Owners of overweight dogs spend about 17% more on health care and 25% more on medications than those with weight-healthy dogs. 

This is why it’s essential that I regularly monitor my pet’s health, then adjust diet, sleep patterns, playtime, and exercise routines accordingly.

Related Questions 

How Will I Know If My Boston Terrier is Underweight?

You have an underweight Boston Terrier if you can easily feel or see your pet’s ribs. Terriers have naturally stout bodies, so little to no flesh protecting the spine and protruding vertebrae are signs of being underweight. 

How Will I Know If My Boston Terrier is Overweight? 

Boston Terriers that weigh over 25 pounds are potentially overweight. Common signs include shortness of breath, abnormal skin sagging, and reluctance to move around. If you notice that your Terrier tends to wear out quickly, you should develop a plan for reducing your pet’s weight. 

7 Ways To Help Your Boston Terrier Lose Weight (Tips)

Conclusion

While Boston Terriers weigh anywhere between 10 to 25 pounds, weight is just one factor of a Boston Terrier’s health. With proper nutrition, grooming, and exercise, I can make sure that my pets have a physically fit life.

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