Irish Bostetter

Dog Breed Profile

Irish Bostetter History

The Irish Bostetter is a newly emerging breed of hybrid, or designer, dog. The creation of the Irish Bostetter began in the late 1980s as a breeding project by European breeders. The goal of the breeding program was to create an Irish terrier that was smaller and more elegant than the Standard Irish Terrier. The first Irish Bostetter litter was born in 1990, and shortly afterward the Kennel Club (UK) granted the breed full recognition.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Boston Terrier, Irish Setter

Irish Bostetter Physical Characteristics

The Irish Bostetter is the smallest breed of terrier and is typically between 6 and 8.5 inches high and 11 and 14.5 inches long. They have a smooth, short, hard, wiry coat that is red, brindle, or grizzle. They have a full, round head, a pointed muzzle, and almond-shaped eyes that are a dark hazel to dark brown in color. The Irish Bostetter is a very petite breed and has a long, slender tail. They are courageous, alert, and feisty.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Brindle, Red, White, Black

Height Range

Male Height Range: 20 – 22 inches

Female Height Range: 19 – 21 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 35 – 45 lbs

Female Weight Range: 30 – 40 lbs

Irish Bostetter Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-14 yrs

Irish Bostetter Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Gastric Torsion, Cherry Eye, Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Brachycephalic Syndrome, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Cataract, Megaesophagus, Hypothyroidism, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Corneal Ulcer, vonWillebrand’s Disease

Irish Bostetter Temperament and Behaviour

The Irish Bostetter is a gentle, calm, and relaxed type of dog. They are known to be very loving and devoted to their families and are very gentle and protective of children. They are highly intelligent and are easy to train. They do best in homes with older children and adults. They can be very playful and energetic, but are also known to be very lazy.

Irish Bostetter Activity Requirements

Irish Bostetters are small, sturdy herding dogs that are easy on the eyes. They are loving, loyal, and intelligent and get along well with children and other animals. This breed does not need a high level of exercise and will be happy with a short walk or a quick romp in the yard. However, they do benefit from having an active owner. A stroll around the neighborhood or a hike through the woods can be a great way to keep an Irish Bostetter healthy. These are smart, active dogs who need to be kept busy. They are often described as having a “puppy-like” personality and they love to play. An Irish Bostetter will be happiest in a home with a yard where they can play and explore.