Pit Heeler vs Irish Bostetter Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Red Terrier or Boston Irish?

Compare the Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Red Terrier or a Boston Irish? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Red Terrier, Bull Pit Heeler, Bull Heeler, Queensland Pit, Red Pit Cattle Terrier, Blue Terrier, Blue Pit Cattle Terrier

Boston Irish

Weight

What is the average weight of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

38.5 pounds ( 17 kg )

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter

17.0 inches ( 43.2 cm )

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter dogs?

Active
Stubborn
Clownish
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Strong
Willed
Aggressive
Hard working
Resourceful

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Shedding Level

Do Pit Heelers shed more than Irish Bostetters, or which breed sheds more, Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters?

Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Blue Heeler and American Pit Bull Terrier

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

Blue
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Blue
Black
Brindle
White
Red
Fawn
Sable
Brown

Brindle
Red
White
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Pit Heelers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Irish Bostetters have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

5-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Pit Heeler can have a litter of 5-8 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.

7-10 puppies per pregnancy

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.

Adaptability

Pit Heelers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

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

Health Issues

Between Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Hip Dysplasia

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

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter breeds?

X-Rays
Physical Examination
Radiographs
Electroretinogram

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

Social Needs

Pit Heeler vs Irish Bostetter social needs comparison

Pit Heeler has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

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

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Pit Heeler vs Irish Bostetter?

Roaming urge

Pit Heeler vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters?

High

Pit Heelers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Irish Bostetters are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pit Heeler, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

8 miles / 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.

Activity per Day

Do Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Pit Heelers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

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.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters?

The Pit Heeler is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter dogs?

Weekly

Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter 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 Pit Heelers and Irish Bostetters?

Pin Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 30-60 pound (14 - 27 kg) Pit Heeler feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

3 cups

For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Irish Bostetter feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter have a similar average daily cost of around $1.70 - $2.00.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

$48 - $63 / month

When it comes to monthly expenses, both Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter have a similar average cost, ranging from $48 - $63. This results in an average yearly cost of around $576 - $756.

Sensitivity Level

How do Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

Pit Heelers can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

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

Child Friendly

Do Pit Heelers or Irish Bostetters have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Pit Heelers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Pit Heelers are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

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

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

Pit Heelers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

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

Pet friendly

How do Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Pit Heeler or Irish Bostetter?

Pit Heelers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter?

Pit Heelers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Irish Bostetters are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Pit Heelers and Irish Bostetters compare?

Pit Heeler and Irish Bostetter dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.