Boston Terrier vs Havanese
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
Havanese
Also known as: Havana Silk Dog, Bichon Havanais, Cuban Bichon
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, as well as its distinctive silky coat. Originating from Cuba, this breed is highly sociable and adaptable, making it a popular choice for families and urban dwellers alike.
Extra Small
Medium
14-16 yrs
23-28 cm
3.2-5.9 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Extra Small |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | Low | High |
| Trainability | Easy | Easy |
| Barking Level | Low | Medium |
| Shedding Level | Low | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Apartment | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner | Beginner |
| 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 | Someone who works from home or has flexible schedule. Willing to commit to grooming maintenance. Patient with housebreaking challenges. Looking for affectionate companion who wants to be with them 24/7. |
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
Havanese Dealbreakers
- Work 8+ hours away from home daily
- Want a dog that lives outside
- Cannot afford professional grooming ($800+/year)
- Want a dog that is instantly potty trained
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Low | Low |
| 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 | Owner lifestyle change (divorce, moving, death), Housebreaking failure - people underestimate potty training commitment |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | Medium |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| 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
Havanese Social Traits
Low
Low - generally loves other dogs
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
Havanese
- Use their high food drive and social drive for training
- Sensitivity means harsh corrections cause shutdown or submissive urination
- Consistency is key - don't let them get away with bad behavior just because they're small
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.
Havanese Considerations
Bred for centuries solely as companions to Cuban aristocracy - genetically wired to be with humans. Leaving them alone 8+ hours results in destructive chewing, excessive barking, and house soiling.
Notoriously slow to potty train. Small bladders and 'sneaky soiling' means they may not be fully reliable until 6-8 months old, sometimes older. Requires consistent positive reinforcement.
Excellent watchdogs who announce every delivery truck, neighbor, and squirrel. In apartments with thin walls, this requires dedicated training to manage.
Unless you learn to groom yourself, expect $60-100 every 4-6 weeks for professional grooming. That's $700-1,200 annually just for haircuts.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Excellent - generally great with cats, especially if introduced young | Excellent - generally great with cats |
| Small Mammals | Caution - may retain terrier ratting instincts with hamsters/guinea pigs | Safe - low prey drive makes them one of safest breeds for rabbits and guinea pigs |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution - should not be trusted alone with free-roaming birds | Safe - generally lacks drive to harm, though always supervise |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested |
| Biddability | High | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
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).
Havanese: May 'Eye' and 'Chase' for play but 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' largely absent. Safe with hamsters and birds if supervised. High biddability but can learn bad habits fast (like barking for attention).
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-12 | 4-12 |
| House Training | Medium | Hard |
| 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.
Havanese: Sweet and generally non-destructive compared to larger breeds. Main challenge is housebreaking frustration - their 'tell' (sign they need to go) is subtle. Adolescent regression at 6-10 months coincides with 'blowing coat' phase where grooming becomes a nightmare.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 1-8 | 2-9 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~10 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 6-18 months | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 38-43 cm | 23-28 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Small | Extra Small |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 14–16 years |
| Litter Size | 3-5 | 4-6 |
Boston Terrier Coat
Havanese Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Originally bred for pit fighting and ratting (weighed up to 44 lbs), rapidly refined to companion dog by late 1800s | Companion dog for Cuban aristocracy - bred to sit on laps, act as bed warmers, and entertain |
| Origin | Boston, Massachusetts, USA, late 19th century (English Bulldog x White English Terrier) | Cuba, 18th-19th century (descended from Blanquito de la Habana and Bichon Tenerife) |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | 92% | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Extreme | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Medium | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.2m | 1m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | None | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Boston Terrier Health Issues
Havanese Health Issues
Boston Terrier Suggested Tests
- JHC (Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts) DNA Test - CRITICAL
- BOAS Assessment (functional breathing test)
- Patella Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
Havanese Suggested Tests
- Hip Evaluation (OFA)
- Patella Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation (CAER)
- BAER Hearing Test
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Medium |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | High | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | High | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | High | High |
| 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.
Havanese Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cataracts
- Heart murmurs (Mitral Valve Disease)
- Hearing loss
- Arthritis
Generally stay sharp mentally. Ramps for furniture recommended to protect backs and joints in senior years.
Grooming & Care
Boston Terrier
low maintenanceHavanese
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Boston Terrier Daily Life
Havanese Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Under 25lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | High | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500-3,000 | $1,500-3,500+ |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,500–$3,000 | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $125–$200 | $100–$200 |
| Yearly Range | $1,500–$3,000 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Food / Month | $25-45 | $20-40 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-100 | $30-50 |
| Grooming / Session | $30-50 | $60-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,500 | $300-500 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Boston Terrier Lifetime Cost
$20,000-40,000
Havanese Lifetime Cost
$20,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Boston Terrier | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Frequent | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily (puppies) | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | None | None |
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.
Havanese Quirks
Paper Shredding
Many Havanese love to shred tissues, toilet paper, and napkins - it's a common breed quirk
Perching Like a Cat
Often sit on backs of sofas or look out windows from high vantage points
Run Like Hell (RLH)
The Havanese version of zoomies - they tuck their butts and sprint in circles at high speed
Shadow Dog
Will follow you to the bathroom - they are true velcro dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
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