The Scholar Dipped His Quill and Pondered One Very Big Question

Large bat ears and round brown eyes give this Boston Terrier scholar a wise, curious look. His tuxedo-patterned face is half black, half white, with a white stripe up the forehead, and he wears a loose black velvet robe in deep folds that nearly merges with the shadowy background. One hand holds a long feather quill between thumb and finger, and the amber light on his face shows a very serious student of the world. He seems to be pondering a very deep question indeed, perhaps whether the quill is edible, or whether dinner is nearly served.

Boston Terriers are friendly, lively, and affectionate dogs often called the American Gentleman because of their tuxedo markings. They are small and sturdy, and they tend to adapt well to apartment life. They need moderate daily exercise and playtime, but because they have flat faces, they can overheat quickly and may snore or snort. Avoid hot weather and strenuous exercise, and keep an eye out for breathing trouble. Their short coat is easy to groom, and they tend to be eager to please. Talk to your vet about eye care and a good diet.

The scholar's great work may be about tennis balls, or about the mysterious sound of the doorbell. Whatever it is, it deserves a careful study and a dramatic pause before the first word is written.