Mini Boston Terriers: What You Need to Know
There's no separate mini Boston Terrier breed. "Mini" usually describes a Boston at the small end of the breed standard, under 15 pounds, and sometimes it's used to sell mixes or dogs bred to be extremely small. Here's what you should know before you go looking for one.
Is the Miniature Boston Terrier a Real Breed?
No. The American Kennel Club recognizes one Boston Terrier breed, divided into three weight classes: under 15 pounds, 15 to under 20 pounds, and 20 to 25 pounds. A "mini" or "miniature" Boston is simply a Boston in that lightest class. They aren't a different breed, and there's no separate registry for them.
How Big Is a Mini Boston Terrier?
A Boston described as mini usually weighs under 15 pounds as an adult, compared with up to 25 pounds for the breed overall. Height varies less than weight. See typical sizes and a growth chart in our Boston Terrier size and weight guide.
What About "Teacup" Boston Terriers?
"Teacup" is a marketing term, not a size class. Dogs bred to be as tiny as possible can face extra health risks: low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in young puppies, fragile bones, crowded teeth and worse breathing problems. Be cautious of anyone charging a premium for "teacup" size.
Is a "Mini" Boston Actually a Mix?
Some puppies sold as mini Bostons are crosses with Chihuahuas or other small breeds. A mix can be a lovely dog, but you should know what you're getting. Ask to see both parents and any registration papers.
How to Find a Smaller Boston Terrier
- Look at the parents: smaller parents tend to have smaller puppies, though no one can guarantee an exact adult size.
- Compare littermates: ask how a puppy's weight compares with their siblings'.
- Meet in person: visiting lets you see the parents' size for yourself.
Our puppies are normal-sized Boston Terriers, and we don't advertise "mini" or "teacup" puppies. If you'd like a smaller Boston, ask us about the parents. You can see every pair on our parents page or compare puppy prices.
Mini Boston Terrier FAQ
Is a mini Boston Terrier a separate breed?
No. There is one Boston Terrier breed. "Mini" usually describes a Boston in the smallest weight class, under 15 pounds.
How big does a mini Boston Terrier get?
A Boston described as mini usually weighs under 15 pounds as an adult. Exact size depends on the parents and can't be guaranteed.
Are teacup Boston Terriers healthy?
Extremely small dogs bred for size can face more health risks, including low blood sugar as puppies, fragile bones, crowded teeth and breathing problems.
Looking for a Boston Terrier puppy? We have 32 puppies available in Worcester, Massachusetts.