How to Keep your Boston Active Year-Round

We all love our Bostons, but those cute flat faces and cheerful snorts come with added responsibility. With smaller airways, narrow nostrils, multiple skin folds and oversized tongues – short-headed or brachycephalic breeds like Boston Terriers are prone to breathing and heat regulation challenges – particularly during exercise and activity.

Want to learn how to conquer the heat? Keep reading for some tips and tricks on how you can keep your Boston Terrier well exercised throughout the year.

Always use a harness

Not just a fashion accessory, harnesses remove the pressure caused by collars on your Boston’s neck and trachea, allowing them to breathe fully when out and about.

Walk less, more often

During periods of higher than average cold or heat, Bostons should still be out walking, but for shorter lengths of time. For example, if you go for a 30 min walk each day, try two 15 min walks instead. Depending on the season, try to schedule your walks for times when the temperature is more moderate: midday during the winter and early mornings or evenings during the summer.

Be ready to hydrate and cool

Whether it’s a specially made dog bottle, or a clean disposable coffee cup, make sure you always have a water vessel at the ready. You can grab bottled water just about anywhere these days, but if you find yourself lacking – don’t be afraid to ask for tap water at any retail or restaurant location.

Avoid exposure to hot surfaces

During high heat, asphalt, concrete and sand temperatures can rise up to 60 degrees higher than the outdoor temperature, leading to burnt paws. A general rule of thumb is to touch it with your hand. If it feels too hot to you, it will be too hot for your dog. Stick to grass and shaded paths whenever possible.

Not all Boston Terriers are natural swimmers like BTRC alum Tucker! Always supervise your dog closely around water, and consider investing in a life jacket or water collar.

Water play

Beaches aren’t just for humans (ok, some are, make sure to check first!). If you don’t have access to a local beach or stream, head to your neighbourhood store and pick up a small kiddie pool or sprinkler. Your dog will love it – or, in the rare instances they don’t – you can use it to lower their body temperature intermittently so that they can tolerate the outdoors just a little bit longer.

Of course, all Bostons and their human companions should always stay indoors during extreme heat warnings. But with these modifications and a little advanced planning – you and your Boston can keep healthy and happy year-round.

Looking for a way to get out and exercise your dog while helping Boston Terrier Rescue Canada? Join our ResQwalk team and be sure to sign up for our Move Your Way 5k on Labour Day Weekend 2021!