Boston Terrier Health Guide
Back to Boston Terrier OverviewUnderstanding the health profile of the Boston Terrier helps owners make informed decisions about screening, insurance, and preventive care. Like many pedigree breeds, the Boston Terrier is prone to certain hereditary and acquired health conditions, most notably Patellar Luxation and Cherry Eye (Prolapsed Nictitating Membrane Gland). With attentive care, most Boston Terriers can be expected to live 11–13 years. Smaller breeds often enjoy longer lifespans but can be prone to dental disease and patellar luxation; regular dental care and weight monitoring are particularly important.
Conditions Affecting Boston Terriers
- Category: Eye Typical onset: Under 2 years Est. treatment cost: £600-£1,500
Cherry eye is the prolapse of the tear-producing gland of the third eyelid, appearing as a red or pink mass in the inner corner of the eye. It is more common in brachycephalic and young breeds, and can affect one or both eyes.
Key symptoms: Red or pink mass in inner eye corner · Eye discharge · Excessive tearing · Eye rubbing · +1 moreFull details, symptoms & treatment - Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 4 months - 6 years Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£3,500
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. It can be medial (inward) or lateral (outward) and ranges from grade 1 (occasional slipping) to grade 4 (permanent dislocation).
Key symptoms: Intermittent skipping on hind leg · Sudden leg lifting · Bunny-hopping · Hind limb lameness · +1 moreFull details, symptoms & treatment
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