If you are looking for a unique and adorable dog, you might want to consider a lilac Boston terrier. This breed is rare and has a distinctive coat colour that makes them stand out from the crowd. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about lilac Boston terriers, including their history, appearance, personality, health, and care.
What is a Lilac Boston Terrier?
A lilac Boston terrier is a variation of the standard Boston terrier, which is a small and compact dog with a short and smooth coat, erect ears, and a short tail. The Boston terrier originated in the United States in the late 19th century. A cross between an English bulldog and a white English terrier resulted in a dog named Judge. Judge was then bred with other dogs and to create the Boston terrier we know today.
The lilac colour is caused by a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. This gene also affects the nose and eye colour, however, making them lighter than usual. Lilac Boston terriers can have different shades of lilac, from light to dark. Lilac Boston Terriers can also have white markings on their face, chest, and paws.
Characteristics
Lilac Boston terriers have the same characteristics as any other Boston terrier, except for their coat color. They are:
– Friendly and affectionate. They love to be around people and other animals, and they are great with children.
– Intelligent and trainable. They learn quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. They can also be stubborn and independent, so they need consistent and firm training.
– Energetic and playful. They enjoy playing games and toys, and they need regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
– Loyal and protective. They are devoted to their owners and will alert them of any strangers or intruders.
– Funny and entertaining. They have a lot of personality and charm, and they will make you laugh with their antics.
What are the Health Issues of a Lilac Boston Terrier?
Lilac Boston Terriers, while generally healthy can face certain health issues:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome: Affects short-nosed, flat-faced dogs leading to breathing difficulties, snoring, overheating, and eye problems.
- Deafness: Some may be deaf or partially deaf due to a lack of ear pigment. Detectable by a BAER hearing test.
- Skin Allergies: Sensitive skin may react to certain substances or environmental factors causing itching, redness, inflammation, and infection.
- Cataracts: Causes cloudiness in the eye lens affecting vision and can be congenital or develop later.
- Patellar Luxation: Causes the kneecap to slip out of place leading to pain and lameness. Can be mild or severe and treated by surgery or medication.
How to Care for a Lilac Boston Terrier?
Here are the key care tips for a Lilac Boston Terrier:
- Grooming: Brush their coat regularly. Bathe them occasionally, and check their ears for wax and debris. Trim their nails, and brush their teeth.
- Feeding: Provide a high-quality diet based on their age, weight, activity level, and health condition. Avoid overfeeding and human food.
- Exercise: Give them at least 30 minutes of daily exercise like walking, running, fetch, or agility training. Avoid hot or humid weather due to overheating risk.
- Training: Start training early using positive reinforcement methods and socialize them with others.
- Health Care: Schedule regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, and spaying/neutering. Monitor for signs of illness or injury.
Conclusion
Lilac Boston terriers are rare and beautiful dogs that make great companions for anyone who loves a friendly, intelligent, and playful dog. They have a distinctive coat colour that makes them stand out from the crowd, and they have a lot of personality and charm. They are easy to care for, but they do have some health issues that you should be aware of. If you are interested in getting a lilac Boston terrier, you should do your research and find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and happy puppy.
If you want to read more about dogs then read the article Black Jack Russell Terrier: The Ultimate Guide