Irish Bostetter vs. Box-a-Shar: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Bostetter nor Box-a-Shar are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar dogs?

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Playful
Loving
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Loyal
Devoted
Fearless
Brave
Bright
Reserved
Suspicious

Shedding Level

Do Irish Bostetters shed more than Box-a-Shars, or which breed sheds more, Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars?

3 / 5

Irish Bostetters are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

2 / 5

Box-a-Shars are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar dog breeds?

United States

​United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds?

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Boxer, Shar-Pei

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds first developed?

Unknown

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds?

Brindle
Red
White
Black

Brown
Black
Red
Brindle
Pied

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds?

3 / 5

Irish Bostetters have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

Box-a-Shars have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

An Irish Bostetter can have a litter of 7-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Box-a-Shar can have a litter of 2-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Box-a-Shars are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Irish Bostetter breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

4 / 5

Box-a-Shars typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Gastric Torsion
Cherry Eye
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Bloat
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy
Cancer
Aortic Stenosis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar breeds?

Physical Examination
Neurological Examination
Blood Tests
Blood Work
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Hormone Analysis

X-Rays
MRI
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests
Blood Work
Radiography

Social Needs

Irish Bostetter vs Box-a-Shar social needs comparison

5 / 5

Irish Bostetter has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Box-a-Shar has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

2 / 5

Irish Bostetters sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

3 / 5

Box-a-Shars have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Bostetter vs Box-a-Shar?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Irish Bostetter vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars?

Both Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Bostetter, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Box-a-Shar, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars require more exercise?

In general most Irish Bostetters usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Box-a-Shars usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars?

3 / 5

The Irish Bostetter requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

2 / 5

The Box-a-Shar has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar dogs?

Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Bostetters and Box-a-Shars?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar in cups?

Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar share the same recommended daily food intake of 3 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

The average cost of an Irish Bostetter is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of a Box-a-Shar is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

The average per month expenses of an Irish Bostetter is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Box-a-Shar is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

3 / 5

Box-a-Shars have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

3 / 5

Irish Bostetters are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

4 / 5

The Box-a-Shar is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Bostetters or Box-a-Shars have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

3 / 5

Box-a-Shars have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

3 / 5

Box-a-Shars are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

2 / 5

Box-a-Shars are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Bostetter or Box-a-Shar?

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

2 / 5

Box-a-Shars are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar?

4 / 5

Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Irish Bostetter and Box-a-Shar is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Bostetters and Box-a-Shars compare?

4 / 5

Irish Bostetters are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Box-a-Shars are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.