Eating And Health

President Obama names the Boston Terrier America's dog



i Boston Terriers officially declared America's national dog Meredith Rizzo/NPR hide caption itoggle caption Meredith Rizzo/NPR Frito-Lay reformulated Flamin' Hot Cheetos, a perennial favorite among school kids, to meet new federal "Smart Snack" rules for schools. Meredith Rizzo/NPR

President Obama declared Boston Terriers the national dog. They are more than stubby-nosed fart machines.

As it turns out, Boston Terriers have a complex history, much like the US.

Unlike the Golden Retriever, Bostons originate in the United States. Boston Terriers, also known as 'America's Gentleman', were accepted as a standard breed by the American Kennel Club in 1893.

The breed originated from the breeding of Bull, Terrier, and French Bulldogs. All pure breed Boston Terriers can be traced back to Judge, the original Bull/Terrier breeder.

The temperament of the dog is typically gentle with a happy-go-lucky and friendly personality.

Boston terriers are also known to be possessive and protective of their owners. This may cause occasional aggressive behaviors.

"The Boston Terrier exemplifies all that is America. The breeds happy and refined character demonstrate America's strong character. Like the Boston Terrier, America will not stand for encroachment into its territory, " state President Obama.

Boston Terrier owner Samantha McCartney, IN, stated, "It is about time the Boston Terrier has been recognized as America's dog. Far too long, the Golden Retriever or Lab have been used to represent America. The Boston is pure American spirit and soul." McCartney goes on to exclaim, "My Boston, The Supreme Court Chief Justice formerly known as Mr. President Sir William Howard Taft, enlightens the lives of all who meet him, and displays a fierce kindness." McCartney calls her Boston, Taft, for short.

When a dog looks like one of America's most precious presidents, it is hard to not love them. There may be other breeds in America, but the Boston Terrier is the only dog that is appropriate to represent the United States. Bostons display grace, kindness, mixed heritage, and a ferocious appetite to defend their terrority.



