The Boston Terrier is a popular dog that makes a great companion. They originated in Boston, Massachusetts, and have been given quite the distinguished nickname of “the American Gentleman,” which refers to the pattern and colors that make them look like they’re wearing a tuxedo.

This leads people to think that Boston Terriers only come in black and white. However, they’re available in various colors and patterns, though only three are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Here, we discuss the AKC colors and a few that aren’t recognized.

The 6 Boston Terrier Colors

1. Brindle Boston Terrier (AKC Recognized)

The Brindle Boston Terrier is an AKC-recognized canine with reddish-brown fur and the white markings of the black Boston Terrier. It’s important to note that brindle isn’t a color but a pattern. Most Boston Terriers have at least some brindle patterning in their coats, so you can’t truly avoid it. The brindle pattern occurs due to a recessive gene.

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2. Black Boston Terrier (AKC Recognized)

The Black Boston Terrier is AKC recognized and features the traditional black and white fur they’re famous for. This is where the name American Gentleman came from, as the dog looks like they’re wearing a classic black and white tuxedo, which is adorable, just as the dog is. Their chest and belly are white, but their back and hind legs are black. Some Black Boston Terriers have freckling, and although that’s not desirable, the AKC still recognizes them.

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3. Seal and White Boston Terrier (AKC Recognized)

The last AKC-recognized Boston Terrier on the list is the Seal Boston Terrier. They look black, but when the light shines on them, they tend to have a reddish tinge to their fur. They have black noses and brown eyes and are often mistaken for Black Boston Terriers.

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4. Chocolate Boston Terrier (Not AKC Recognized)

The Chocolate Boston Terrier is not AKC recognized and can be a light brown or darker chocolate color with white markings scattered throughout their fur. This dog’s fur doesn’t show dirt as easily as the other colors.

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5. Blue Boston Terrier (Not AKC Recognized)

The Blue Boston Terrier is not AKC recognized but has one of the rarest colors of the breed. While no dog is truly “blue,” the Blue Boston Terrier’s silver or gray coloring has a blue tinge. While these gorgeous dogs make great pets, some feel that they result from poor breeding practices and tend to avoid buying this color.

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6. Red Boston Terrier (Not AKC Recognized)

The Red Boston Terrier is also not AKC recognized. You shouldn’t expect this dog to have a vibrant or fire-engine-red coat, but they often have fur with a red tinge. They can have an orangish red, multi-colored, or even reddish-brown coat.

While only three of these colors are recognized by the AKC, the dogs themselves still make loyal, loving companions for the right family or individual.

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Boston Terrier

When you’re looking for a Boston Terrier, it’s important to ensure that the breeder you choose is experienced and reputable. Some breeders have tried to sell Boston Terrier puppies that they pass off as seal or brindle when they aren’t.

If you are trying to purchase a Boston Terrier puppy to compete in dog shows, it’s vital that you trust the breeder you’re adopting from, since the AKC won’t let your pup compete if they aren’t one of the recognized three colors .

However, if you don’t care about your dog being in shows, any Boston Terrier will make an excellent pet. That said, you must ensure that the color of your new puppy won’t cause any health problems.

Possible Boston Terrier Health Issues

Sadly, it’s been discovered that Boston Terriers with white markings on their heads or bodies that cover over a 1/3 of those areas could end up giving birth to deaf puppies. It’s also possible that the parent dog will become deaf, though this doesn’t always happen.

There are a few other health issues that you’ll want to watch out for with a Boston Terrier. For example, the Blue Boston Terrier is more vulnerable to allergies and hair loss. The best thing to do, no matter what color Boston Terrier you are trying to adopt, is to have a complete checkup done by a reputable vet before you make a final decision.

Final Thoughts

Quite a few colors are available when it comes to looking for a Boston Terrier puppy to give a forever home. However, note that only three colors are AKC recognized. If you’re looking for a dog that you can compete with in shows, those three colors are the only ones that will be accepted.

However, if you’re not concerned with your dog competing, any Boston Terrier will make an ideal companion. Since some dogs are more vulnerable to specific health conditions due to their coat color, adopting a Boston Terrier from a reputable breeder and maintaining veterinary appointments are vital.

See also:

• Newfoundland Dog vs St. Bernard
• 23 Essential Boston Terrier Supplies to Get You Started: Guide

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Featured Image Credit: Aneta Jungerova, Shutterstock