Bat Ears Up, Chest Out, and a Tuxedo Built Right Into His Fur
Bat ears up, chest out, and a tuxedo built right into his fur: this black and white Boston Terrier was born to wear formal attire. The duke sits squarely facing forward in a plush navy velvet coat fastened with two rows of shining gold buttons, a touch of gold embroidery at the collar, and a ruffled white cravat spilling down the front. His large, round brown eyes have a slightly surprised look, and a crisp white blaze runs between them down to his short muzzle. A stone column and dark drapery add a stately backdrop.
Boston Terriers earned the nickname the American Gentleman, partly thanks to their tuxedo-like markings and polite, friendly manners. They are lively, clever and affectionate, and they often get along well with families and other pets. Because of their short muzzles, Bostons can be sensitive to heat and strenuous exercise, so walks are best in cooler parts of the day, with plenty of water. Their prominent eyes can be prone to injury, so watch for squinting or redness and call your vet if something looks wrong. A harness instead of a collar is often recommended for short-nosed breeds.
Velvet coats with rows of gilded buttons were high fashion for aristocratic men in the early 1800s, and their deep jewel tones looked especially rich in candlelit portraits.
This duke looks ready for a formal ball, though he might abandon the dance floor the moment someone mentions a squeaky toy.
