You’re likely aware that not all dogs like to cuddle… which could leave you wondering where your Boston Terrier falls: a cuddler or not?
Are Boston Terriers affectionate, do they cuddle or sit on your lap? The answer is YES! Boston Terriers are affectionate and love to snuggle with their owners!
Let’s see how Bostons show affection and what are the benefits dog parents get from all that love!
Are Boston Terriers Affectionate?
Although Boston Terriers were originally bred to be fighting dogs, breeders long ago stopped looking for those characteristics and started breeding them as a companion dog that is able to compete in shows and sports.
Bostons are gentle, even-tempered and affectionate companions that are eager to please their owners. Their friendliness makes them a great family pet.
Bostons are loyal and devoted to their owners, plus they are a great source of entertainment!
They love children and amuse people of all ages with their antics and funny expressions. They are especially good companions for older people.
Their lively, affectionate nature makes them extremely loveable. Plus, Boston Terrier owners feel that their dog loves them without reserve. Their constant show of affection leaves no doubt!
Also, they have little regard for personal space. Since they enjoy spending time with their owners so much, they will make room to be next to you. 🙂
They know how to get your attention. So if you are not giving your pup any attention at the moment, he is likely to find a way to insert himself between you and whatever you are currently doing.
Once he looks at you with those big eyes and intelligent facial expression, you are done! Your heart will melt and you can’t help but feel eager to give some love back. 😉
Read also: Boston Terriers Personality – What’s It Like to Own One?
Do Boston Terriers Like to Cuddle?
Like I mentioned before, Bostons have little regard towards personal space. This also means that… Boston Terriers love to cuddle and snuggle with their owners. They cannot get close enough to you!
“Boston’s are the world’s best kissers, and snugglers! They especially like to get under the covers with you.”
Boston Terrier owner.
Why Do Boston Terriers Like to Cuddle?
Why are Boston Terriers so affectionate?
Snuggling with you provides warmth, affection, security and a sense of belonging to your Boston.
Let me explain:
- Affection and sense of belonging: Comfort is an important factor that influences this burrowing behaviour. Boston Terriers love to be close to their family members to bond, belong and feel good.
- Security: Also, they have a need to feel secure. Bostons can hide under covers when they are fearful or suffer from anxiety.
- Warmth: Boston Terriers have a higher need to stay warm since they don’t tolerate extreme temperatures.
Keeping in contact with their owners helps Bostons stay physically warm and emotionally happy.
Read also: Why Do Boston Terriers Sleep Under Covers? where I explain why burrowing under the cover is a natural canine behaviour. And other fun facts about how Bostons sleep!
The Benefits of Cuddling
According to a study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, cuddling is a great stress reliever for both dogs and owners.
It has been proven that petting and snuggling your furry friend can increase oxytocin levels in both of you (the love hormone). As a result, both of your cortisol levels decrease (the stress hormone).
Oxytocin, the “love hormone,” is associated with social bonding and also trust. So, when you and your Boston Terrier cuddle, you are strengthening the bond between the two of you!
When your pooch seeks to cuddle you… At the same time that your oxytocin levels increase, your cortisol levels decrease, which means:
- You have reduced anxiety and depression levels.
- You sleep better.
Another study from the Mayo Clinic also proves that some dog owners find their dog’s presence soothing and helps them relax.
Is there any downside? Well, this depends on your tolerance to licking! 🙂
Cuddling and kisses seem to go together! Personally, I don’t enjoy getting licked in the face. That being said, every time my dog manages to lick me in the face, I laugh!
How Does Your Boston Terrier Show Affection?
Apart from cuddling and snuggling next to you, Boston Terriers show care and affection by:
- Nosing.
- Eye contact.
- Signing.
- Licking.
- Jumping.
- Leaning.
- Rolling.
- Greeting you.
- Tail wagging.
Watch those love signs life in this video:
Amongst other dog behaviour and characteristics, these are what I find the most common for Boston Terriers:
#1 – Licking
Besides cuddling, I would say that licking is number one for Boston Terriers! They love to kiss their owners. 😉
Also, licking can also be a way to signal a lower social status. When your Boston licks you, he may be letting you know that he respects your authority too.
If you are having problems with excessive licking, or simply are not a fan…
Read also: Why Do Boston Terriers Lick So Much? And How to Stop It.
#2 – Eye Contact
Boston Terriers will look directly into your eyes with a soft expression. Eye contact is an intimate act. For many dogs, it’s a display of:
- Trust.
- Attachment.
- And affection.
Most importantly, oxytocin between humans and dogs seems to increase just when we make eye contact and stare at each other.
#3 – Greeting You
Bostons will definitely show their appreciation and will always be happy when you get back home.
This doesn’t necessarily mean an all-out bonkers greeting. Although Bostons can get very enthusiastic and you might get treated to a series of dance moves in honour of your arrival home.
He may look like a pinball, springing off his bed to circle around your legs. Let him calm down first before saying hello.
Insider Tip: A super-crazy over-the-top greeting can be a sign of separation anxiety, not an indicator of affection.
#4 – Jumping
Now, here’s a sign of affection you may not want to encourage.
Although you can reframe it as a loving act of enthusiasm, it can get dangerous. Your pooch can knock out kids or scare visitors.
If your Boston gets extra-bouncy around you, he’s showing his enthusiasm. Plus, he can get a closer look at your eyes, or reach you for a welcoming lick.
Dogs are drawn to human faces, and jumping can be a way to get closer!
However, if your pooch is jumping too much…
Read also: How to Stop Boston Terrier Jumping.
#5 – Tail Wagging
Or should I say full-body shaking?
Boston’s get excited pretty easily and are prone to show their “joy”. And what do they do when thrilled? They shake around!
Instead of tail wagging (they have short tails), Boston Terriers wiggle their whole body! I have to say that it’s very amusing to watch such a display of enthusiasm 🙂
So, your pooch approaching you with a wagging body is enough to indicate your he’s happy to see you.
Read also: Why Do Boston Terriers Shake or Shiver? Good or Bad?
