Bossie
Hybrid Breed Description
The Bossie is a cross between the Boston Terrier and the Australian Shepherd. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Bossie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier stands between fifteen and seventeen inches at the shoulder, with a compact and well-balanced build that reflects both strength and refinement. These small yet sturdy dogs typically weigh between ten and twenty-five pounds, divided into three weight classes. Males usually measure around seventeen inches tall while females average sixteen inches. Their most distinctive feature is their tuxedo-like coat pattern, which has earned them the affectionate nickname of the American Gentleman. The body presents a square appearance with a broad chest, slightly arched neck, and level topline that conveys an impression of determination and grace. The head is characteristically square and flat on top, with a short, square, broad muzzle that gives the breed its pushed-in facial appearance. Large, round, dark eyes are set widely apart and positioned squarely in the skull, contributing to the breed's alert and intelligent expression. The small, erect ears stand like bat ears, though some individuals are born with floppy ears. Their short tail, which may be straight or take a corkscrew shape, typically does not exceed two inches in length. This naturally short tail is a genetic characteristic of the breed. The coat itself is short, smooth, and glossy, requiring minimal grooming despite regular shedding. Standard colors include black with white markings, brindle with white, or seal with white, where seal appears black but shows a reddish cast in bright light. Required markings consist of a white chest, white muzzle band, and white blaze between the eyes. The breed's distinctive coloring and formal appearance, combined with their refined yet sturdy proportions, create an unmistakable silhouette that has made Boston Terriers instantly recognizable and beloved companions for over a century.
Key Characteristics
Boston Terriers possess a gentle, friendly, and affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions. These intelligent dogs are generally eager to please their owners and respond well to training, though they can display a stubborn streak that requires patience and consistency. Their happy-go-lucky personality combines with a merry sense of humor, often entertaining their families with amusing antics and playful behavior. They thrive on human companionship and form strong bonds with family members, preferring to remain close to their loved ones throughout the day. Despite their small size, Boston Terriers make excellent watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of approaching strangers, though they are not excessive barkers. They can be protective of their owners, which may occasionally manifest as territorial behavior toward other pets or unfamiliar people. However, with proper socialization, most Bostons get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats, especially when raised together. Their compact build makes them more tolerant of children's play compared to more fragile toy breeds. These dogs are particularly well-suited for apartment living due to their sensible attitude toward barking and moderate exercise needs. The breed demonstrates remarkable adaptability and can be equally content as a child's playful companion or a senior citizen's devoted friend. While Boston Terriers possess a lively and spirited nature, they also appreciate quiet time cuddling on the couch. Their sensitivity to their owner's tone of voice means harsh training methods should be avoided in favor of positive reinforcement. These dogs can become shy or hyperactive if overprotected or denied sufficient exercise, making proper socialization and regular activity essential for developing a well-adjusted temperament that showcases the best qualities of this charming American breed.
Boston Terriers are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of eleven to fifteen years, though they are predisposed to several breed-specific health concerns that potential owners should understand. As a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have shortened muzzles and flat faces, Bostons commonly experience respiratory issues including stenotic nostrils, elongated soft palates, and brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. These conditions can cause noisy breathing, snoring, difficulty exercising, and increased sensitivity to heat. Affected dogs may struggle to regulate body temperature through panting and are at risk for hyperthermia during hot weather or strenuous activity. Eye problems represent another significant health concern for Boston Terriers due to their large, prominent eyes. The breed is susceptible to cataracts, which can appear as early as eight weeks in juvenile cases and are often hereditary. Glaucoma, an extremely painful condition causing rapid pressure buildup in the eye, can lead to blindness without treatment. Corneal ulcers occur frequently because the protruding eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation. Additionally, Boston Terriers may develop cherry eye, where the third eyelid gland prolapses, and dry eye, which results from insufficient tear production and requires lifelong management. Orthopedic issues include patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position causing lameness and potential arthritis if untreated. Skin allergies and atopic dermatitis are common, manifesting as excessive scratching, licking, and red irritated skin that may require dietary changes or medication. The breed's unique body structure also makes them prone to spinal problems and intervertebral disc disease. Over eighty percent of Boston Terrier litters are delivered by cesarean section due to the puppies' relatively large heads. Regular veterinary examinations, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding overheating, and selecting puppies from reputable breeders who conduct health screenings can help manage these conditions and ensure Boston Terriers live full, comfortable lives as cherished family members.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a solid, athletic build and well-balanced proportions that reflect its herding heritage. Males typically stand between twenty and twenty-three inches at the shoulder and weigh fifty to sixty-five pounds, while females are slightly smaller at eighteen to twenty-one inches tall and forty to fifty-five pounds. Their body length slightly exceeds their height, creating a rectangular silhouette that emphasizes strength and agility. The breed features a level topline, deep chest with well-sprung ribs, and a firm, muscular body that enables the stamina and quick movements necessary for working livestock. One of the Australian Shepherd's most striking features is their luxurious double coat, which varies from medium to long in length with a texture ranging from straight to slightly wavy. The weather-resistant outer coat protects against the elements, while the dense undercoat changes in thickness depending on climate. The coat is shorter and smooth on the head, ears, and front of the legs, while the backs of the forelegs show moderate feathering and the britches display fuller coverage. A pronounced mane circles the neck, appearing more prominent in males than females. This breed showcases remarkable coat color diversity, including blue merle, red merle, solid black, and solid red, all potentially accompanied by white markings and tan points, creating unique patterns that ensure no two Australian Shepherds look exactly alike. The head is clean-cut and proportionate to the body, featuring a flat to slightly rounded topskull and a muzzle equal in length to the back skull. Their expressive almond-shaped eyes are particularly captivating and may be brown, blue, amber, or any combination of these colors, often including flecks and marbling that add to their distinctive appearance. The triangular ears are set high and break forward when the dog is alert. Australian Shepherds typically have naturally bobbed tails, though tail length can vary. Their smooth, free gait demonstrates efficiency and grace, with good forward reach and drive that reflects the athleticism and endurance required for their original purpose as versatile working dogs on American ranches.
Key Characteristics
Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent, energetic, and devoted dogs whose temperament reflects their strong herding heritage and working dog background. Ranking among the smartest dog breeds, Aussies are quick learners who excel at obedience training and thrive when given tasks or jobs to perform. They possess an innate herding instinct that may manifest as attempts to herd children, other pets, or even moving vehicles, making proper training and secure environments essential. These dogs form deep bonds with their families and are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, often earning the nickname velcro dogs due to their tendency to stay close to their favorite person throughout the day. While Australian Shepherds can be friendly and social, they typically display a reserved and cautious demeanor around strangers, which is a natural protective instinct rather than shyness or aggression. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop confidence and appropriate responses to new people and situations. They serve as excellent watchdogs and will alert their families to unusual activity, though this protective nature requires management to prevent excessive territorial behavior. With proper introduction and socialization, Aussies generally get along well with children and other pets, though their herding behaviors may include nipping at heels or circling, which should be redirected through training. The Australian Shepherd's remarkable energy level and intelligence demand substantial mental and physical stimulation to maintain their well-being. Without adequate exercise and engagement, these dogs can become destructive, anxious, or develop behavioral problems such as excessive barking or digging. They require active owners committed to providing daily activities, whether through long walks, jogging, agility training, or interactive games that challenge both body and mind. Aussies are happiest when they have a purpose and thrive in environments where they can participate in family activities, dog sports, or actual work. Their trainability and eager-to-please attitude make them responsive to positive reinforcement methods, though their intelligence means they may attempt to outsmart their owners if not given consistent leadership and appropriate outlets for their considerable physical and mental energy.
Australian Shepherds are generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years, though they are predisposed to several hereditary conditions that responsible breeders work to minimize through health testing. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are orthopedic concerns where abnormal joint development leads to arthritis and pain over time. While more common in larger breeds, these conditions affect Australian Shepherds enough to warrant screening through radiographs. Maintaining appropriate weight and providing regular low-impact exercise can help manage these joint problems and reduce discomfort as dogs age. Eye diseases represent the most common health concerns in the breed. Cataracts, the leading hereditary eye issue, can appear at various ages and may progress to cause blindness, though surgical intervention is often successful. Progressive retinal atrophy causes gradual vision loss beginning with night blindness and eventually leading to complete blindness. Collie eye anomaly is an inherited defect affecting blood vessel development in the eyes, with severity ranging from minor vision impairment to retinal detachment. Regular examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists and genetic testing help identify carriers and affected dogs. Additionally, Australian Shepherds can develop glaucoma, a painful condition causing elevated eye pressure that requires immediate treatment to prevent blindness. A critical health consideration for Australian Shepherds is the MDR1 gene mutation, present in approximately fifty percent of the breed. This genetic defect affects how dogs metabolize certain medications, particularly common drugs used in heartworm preventatives and anesthesia, potentially causing severe or fatal reactions. Genetic testing is essential to identify affected dogs, and owners must inform all veterinarians of their dog's status to ensure safe medication choices. Other health issues include autoimmune thyroiditis, the most commonly reported autoimmune disease in the breed, which is treatable with inexpensive medication. Epilepsy, though relatively uncommon, can occur and may require lifelong management. Skin allergies and ear infections also affect some Australian Shepherds. Working with reputable breeders who conduct comprehensive health screenings and maintaining regular veterinary care significantly improves the likelihood of a healthy, active life for these versatile and beloved companions.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Bossie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Boston Terrier and Australian Shepherd to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.