The Boston Terrier Puppy Checklist

The Boston Terrier Puppy Checklist

Bringing home a Boston Terrier puppy? Congratulations! Here’s everything you need to prepare for your new family member.

Before Puppy Comes Home

Essential Supplies

Food & Water

• High-quality puppy food (ask your breeder what they’ve been feeding)
• Stainless steel or ceramic food and water bowls
• Treat pouch for training
• Healthy training treats

Sleep & Rest

• Appropriately sized crate (they should be able to stand, turn, and lie down)
• Soft crate pad or bed
• Blanket (ask breeder for one with littermate scent)

Safety & Containment

• Baby gates for room separation
• Puppy playpen (optional but helpful)
• ID tag with your contact info
• Collar and leash

Grooming

• Soft bristle brush
• Dog-safe shampoo
• Nail clippers or grinder
• Eye wipes (Bosties can have eye discharge)
• Ear cleaning solution

Health

• Find a vet BEFORE puppy comes home
• Schedule first vet visit within 48-72 hours of arrival
• Pet insurance (highly recommended for brachycephalic breeds)

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Boston Terriers are curious and love to chew. Before bringing your puppy home:

• Remove or secure electrical cords
• Put away shoes, socks, and small items
• Check for toxic plants (lilies, philodendrons, etc.)
• Secure garbage cans
• Store chemicals and medications safely
• Block access to stairs initially

First Week Home

Day 1-3: Adjustment Period

• Keep things calm and quiet
• Establish a potty schedule (every 2 hours minimum)
• Start crate training gently
• Let puppy explore at their own pace

Day 4-7: Building Routine

• Consistent feeding times (3x daily for puppies)
• Regular potty breaks
• Short, positive training sessions (5 minutes max)
• Supervised socialization

Boston Terrier-Specific Tips

Breathing & Heat Boston Terriers are brachycephalic (flat-faced), which means:

• They overheat easily—avoid exercise in hot weather
• Watch for signs of breathing difficulty
• Keep your home comfortably cool
• Avoid collars that put pressure on the throat (use harnesses)

Eyes Their prominent eyes need extra care:

• Wipe discharge daily
• Watch for scratches or irritation
• Keep face clean and dry

Skin Folds

• Clean facial folds regularly to prevent infection
• Keep folds dry

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What’s Next?

Once you’re settled in:

• Canadian Winter Guide — Keeping your Bostie safe in cold weather
• Our Story — Meet the team behind Bostie Club

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