Boston Terrier vs Bullmastiff
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Boston Terrier
Also known as: American Gentleman, Boston Bull, Boston Bull Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a compact, tuxedo-marked companion known as the 'American Gentleman' for its polite demeanor. Originally bred in Boston from English Bulldogs and White English Terriers, this breed transitioned from pit fighter to beloved family companion. They're adaptable, affectionate, and perfect for apartment living - but come with significant health considerations.
Small
Medium
11-13 yrs
38-43 cm
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful, and loyal breed known for its protective nature and gentle temperament. Originally bred in England as a gamekeeper's companion to guard estates, this breed combines the strength of a Mastiff with the agility of a Bulldog.
Extra Large
Medium
7-9 years yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Extra Large |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | Low | Medium |
| Trainability | Easy | challenging |
| Barking Level | Low | Low |
| Shedding Level | Low | Medium |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Hard |
| Housing | Apartment | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Apartment dweller, work-from-home professional, retiree, or anyone wanting an affectionate companion who can handle a gassy, snoring shadow | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Bullmastiff. |
Boston Terrier Dealbreakers
- Want a running partner (heat intolerance)
- Away from home 8+ hours daily (separation anxiety)
- Cannot afford pet insurance or $2,000 emergency fund
- Repulsed by snoring or flatulence
Bullmastiff Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 60-60 min daily exercise
- Cannot commit to grooming needs
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Low | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Health/Financial - cannot afford surgery for knees or management of severe allergies, Housing - landlord restrictions or moving to unsuitable climate, Underestimating flatulence and snoring | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | Low |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Boston Terrier Social Traits
None
Generally good with other dogs, some male posturing with intact males
Bullmastiff Social Traits
Moderate
Selective
Training
Boston Terrier
- They are sensitive - harsh corrections cause them to shut down
- Use their high food motivation to your advantage
- Be consistent - don't tolerate jumping/nipping just because they're small
Bullmastiff
- ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Harsh corrections often cause this breed to shut down or become defensive.
Boston Terrier Considerations
Boston Terriers are extreme 'Velcro dogs' that bond intensely. Left alone for more than 4-6 hours, they develop destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent vocalization. Not suitable if all adults work full-time away from home.
It is impossible to overstate this issue. Their brachycephalic anatomy causes them to swallow air while eating, resulting in frequent, potent gas. If flatulence repulses you rather than amuses you, this is NOT your breed.
Their shortened airways prevent efficient panting. They are at HIGH RISK of heatstroke at temperatures above 25°C (77°F). Air conditioning is a requirement, not a luxury. You cannot take them jogging or hiking in summer.
Expect loud snoring, snorting, and episodes of reverse sneezing that sound like the dog is choking. If you need silence to sleep, this breed is not for you.
Bullmastiff Considerations
This is a genetically rooted trait in many Bullmastiffs. While they may coexist peacefully with dogs of the opposite sex, placing two males or two females together often results in severe conflict once they reach social maturity (18–24 months). This aggression is rarely "cured" through training; it is managed.
Bred to track and hold poachers silently without human direction, the Bullmastiff is an independent problem solver. They do not have the "will to please" of a Golden Retriever. If a command does not make sense to them, they will simply ignore it. This is often misinterpreted as stupidity; it is actually a refusal to perform rote tasks without high-value motivation.
While independent in thought, they are physically clingy. They will lean their 120-pound bodies against you, sit on your feet, and follow you from room to room. This constant physical presence can be overwhelming for owners who value personal space.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Excellent - generally great with cats, especially if introduced young | Generally safe with proper introduction |
| Small Mammals | Caution - may retain terrier ratting instincts with hamsters/guinea pigs | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution - should not be trusted alone with free-roaming birds | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Medium |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
Boston Terrier: Predatory sequence is Eye -> Stalk -> Chase. Grab-Bite and Kill-Bite are largely inhibited, though they may still dispatch small rodents (terrier heritage).
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-12 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Medium | Moderate |
| Crate Training | High | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
Boston Terrier: Housetraining can be challenging due to small bladders and dislike of cold/wet weather. They're not destructive chewers by nature - main challenge is potty training.
Bullmastiff: Bullmastiff puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 1-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 6-18 months | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 38-43 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Small | Extra Large |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 7–9 years |
| Litter Size | 3-5 | 4-8 |
Boston Terrier Coat
Bullmastiff Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Originally bred for pit fighting and ratting (weighed up to 44 lbs), rapidly refined to companion dog by late 1800s | Developed in mid-19th century England, the Bullmastiff was created by gamekeepers to combat poachers |
| Origin | Boston, Massachusetts, USA, late 19th century (English Bulldog x White English Terrier) | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | 92% | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Extreme | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Medium | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.2m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | None | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Boston Terrier Health Issues
Bullmastiff Health Issues
Boston Terrier Suggested Tests
- JHC (Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts) DNA Test - CRITICAL
- BOAS Assessment (functional breathing test)
- Patella Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
Bullmastiff Suggested Tests
- OFA/PennHIP for hip/elbow dysplasia
- Echocardiogram for cardiac issues
- CERF for eye conditions
- Prophylactic gastropexy
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | High | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | High | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | High | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
Boston Terrier Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cataracts / Nuclear Sclerosis (bluish haze)
- Arthritis (especially knees)
- Cognitive decline
Most seniors develop some form of eye cloudiness. Use ramps for furniture to protect spine and arthritic joints.
Bullmastiff Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
Boston Terrier
low maintenanceBullmastiff
medium maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Boston Terrier Daily Life
Bullmastiff Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | High | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500-3,000 | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,500–$3,000 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $125–$200 | $180–$300 |
| Yearly Range | $1,500–$3,000 | $2,160–$3,600 |
| Food / Month | $25-45 | $100-150 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-100 | $80-150 |
| Grooming / Session | $30-50 | N/A |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,500 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Boston Terrier Lifetime Cost
$20,000-40,000
Bullmastiff Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Boston Terrier | Bullmastiff |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Frequent | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | None | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily (puppies) | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | None | Low |
Boston Terrier Quirks
The Gas Factory
Expect frequent, potent flatulence due to swallowing air while eating. Slow-feeders and probiotics help reduce but never eliminate.
Reverse Sneezing
A spasm of the soft palate that sounds like a terrifying asthma attack. Usually harmless - gently massage throat to stop it.
The Sunbather
They LOVE to bake in sun patches, but must be supervised to prevent heatstroke. Their heat regulation is poor.
The Burrower
They love to sleep under blankets and will burrow into bedding. Perfect for cold nights, concerning for hot ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
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