Meet the Bossi-Poo: A Strange Mix of Boston Terrier and Poodle

Rocky Kanaka |

Jul 18, 2023

One of the biggest reasons Doodles get hate is because of the unpredictability of producing mixed-breed dogs. Not only can temperament, personality, and health be entirely unexpected or opposite of your goals, but the look of mixed-breed dogs can vary enormously between individuals.

Doodles that have gotten popular have—in some ways—been standardized, and you can now sort of guess what your adult Labradoodle or Goldendoodle will look like. Rarer mixes, on the other hand, are nearly impossible to predict, and might look different even from their littermates.

Bossi-Poos are a mix of Boston Terrier and Poodle, and as you’ll see shortly, they don’t always look how you’d expect! While most Bossis are goofy, social, and affectionate, don’t commit to this mix quite yet. There may be more hidden variables than you realize.

What Do Bossi-Poos Look Like? Meet 5 From Instagram

Don’t worry if you can’t even begin to imagine what a Boston Terrier mix with Poodle looks like—this mix is unpredictable, and individual Bossi-Poos look very different from one another. Unlike Boston Terriers who are fairly homogenous—all with approximately the same coloring, markings, and fur type—Bossi-Poos vary enormously, as you’ll see in a moment.

Because the Bossi-Poo isn’t an official breed but rather a (usually accidental) mix, breeders aren’t aiming for any particular look by producing these pups. Here, we’ll look at five adorable Bossi Poos—all 50% Boston Terrier and 50% Poodle—that look extraordinarily different from one another.

1. Vinny

Viny the Bossi-Poo — *^Source:*^{@TaniaLovesDodgers}

This handsome little scruff is Vinny, a Bossi Poo who lives for food, parties, and watching Dodgers games with his mama! Vinny has the classic black and white Boston Terrier coloring, but as you can see, he inherited his fur texture from his Poodle parent.

2. Aimo

Aimo the Bossi-Poo — *^Source:*^{@AimoTheBossiPoo_SidekickMauno}

Aimo is a seven-year-old brindle Bossi-Poo from Helsinki, Finland who is quite the little adventurer! Aimo will happily spend time outside in rain, shine, or snow, and braves all of Finland’s weather. When not on an adventure, Aimo is snuggled up with bestie Mauno.

3. Harper

Harper the Bossi-Poo — *^Source:*^@Bossi.Poo

Most Bossi-Poos are a mix of Boston Terrier and either miniature or toy Poodle. In Harper’s case, she had one Boston Terrier parent and one standard Poodle parent—this means that Harper is a little larger than most Bossi-Poos, but every bit as adorable! By just looking at her, it might be tough to tell that Harper is Boston Terrier at all, but that just shows you how unpredictable the look of mixed-breed dogs can be.

4. Freddie Mercury

freddie mercury the Bossi-Poo — *^Source:*^{@Bossi_Freddie}

Freddie Mercury is an adorable Bossi-Poo from Vancouver, Canada, who has a super unique look! Freddie has the physical build of a Boston Terrier. He has a strong, boxy body, long legs, a short square nose, and droopy ears. He even has markings that look a lot like most Boston Terrier markings! This good boy has a bunch of hilarious quirks and so much personality—he’s definitely the main character.

5. Finnegan

Finnegan the Bossi-Poo — *^Source:*^{@Finnegan_Fluff_Nugget}

This very dapper boy is Finnegan, and while he might look like a tiny sheepdog, he’s 100% Bossi-Poo! This two-year-old pup has fur just like a Poodle, and his humans love how gloriously fluffy he gets when it all grows out. A sweet, patient guy, Finnegan loves to spend his time in the garden or following his people wherever they are.

Bossi-Poo Basic Info

Ready to learn about a mix you might never meet? The Bossi-Poo isn’t exactly rare, it just doesn’t technically exist. No one is breeding Bossi-Poos, and probably for good reasons, but you’ll still find the occasional Boston Terrier Poodle despite there being no formal breeding programs! Should you encounter a sweet little Bossi-Poo, you’ll now know what to expect in terms of temperament, health, and basic needs.

Bossi-Poo Temperament

Because it’s an unregulated, unexplored mix, there isn’t a lot of data on the Bossi-Poo, and it will be hard to know what kind of personality yours will have before you spend time with them. A few common characteristics shared by both Poodles and Boston Terriers—and therefore may be traits found in Bossi-Poos—include:

Cheerful
Friendly
Playful
Even-tempered
Intelligent
Alert
Independently minded
Stubborn

While some Boston Terriers and Boston Terrier mixes enjoy long days of lounging on the couch, the combination of Terrier energy with the Poodle’s need for mental stimulation can create a high-energy Bossi-Poo.

“A flirt pole combined with a laser pointer were the only things [that] got my crazy 11 year old Bossi-Poo to calm down when he was younger,” says a Reddit user’s comment about how to wear out high-energy dogs. “We don’t have to bring it out as often now that we have a puppy that can keep up with him. They typically spend about an hour playing then they take 1-3 hour naps together.”

Thanks to their interest in humans and social nature, the Boston Terrier Poodle mix may make a good family dog. Keep in mind that Boston Terriers (and mixes) are known for developing deep bonds with one particular person, so the Bossi-Poo may also be an excellent companion for an older individual, a single person, or a quiet couple.

Bossi-Poo Size

The adult size of a Bossi-Poo will depend almost entirely on its Poodle parent. Most Bossi-Poos are a mix of Boston Terriers and miniature Poodles, but some may be the result of either toy or standard Poodles. We’ve done some quick math to give you basic estimates of how big your Bossi-Poo will be depending on what variety of Poodle is in their mix, but remember, it’s never a guarantee with mixed-breed dogs.

Mix	Height	Weight
Boston Terrier x Toy Poodle	9–12 inches	8–20 pounds
Boston Terrier x Miniature Poodle	10–15 inches	12–25 pounds
Boston Terrier x Standard Poodle	12–18 inches	25–60 pounds

Bossi-Poo Health

Not much is known about the health of Boston Terrier Poodle mixes since this cross hasn’t caught on in mainstream dog-lover culture. However, there are some educated guesses to be made based on health issues commonly seen in Boston Terriers, Poodles, and resulting mixes of these breeds.

Eye problems (e.g. glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, corneal ulcer)
Hip dysplasia
Patellar luxation
Collapsed trachea and breathing difficulties
Hearing difficulties or total deafness
Addison’s disease
Bloat
Epilepsy

Where To Find Bossi-Poo Puppies

You’ve probably never heard of or seen a Bossi-Poo before, and that’s because no one is officially breeding them! While you may come across the rare litter of Bossi Poo puppies being advertised online, there is no good or ethical way to purchase one of these mixed-breed dogs from a breeder. The few people sharing the lives of their Bossi-Poos online have largely adopted their pups, and that’s what we suggest you do too!

There are so many amazing animal rescue resources, and you can start by making a visit to your local animal shelter. If you’re set on a Poodle or Boston Terrier mix, visit one of these breed-specific rescues and organizations:

Bossi Poo FAQ

If you have a little more time and want to know more about the Boston Terrier Poodle mix, keep reading! We’re answering the internet’s most pressing questions about Bossi-Poos.

What’s the difference between a Bossi-Poo and a Bossie dog?

A Bossi-Poo is a mix of Poodle and Boston Terrier. The name is a portmanteau of both breed names. A Bossie dog is a Boston Terrier mixed with an Australian Shepherd. While both mixes contain Boston Terrier, they are quite different both in looks and personality.

What’s the difference between a Bossi-Poo and a Bochi?

Both the Bossi-Poo and the Bochi are Boston Terrier mixes. A Bossi-Poo Boston Terrier Poodle mix while a Bochi is a Boston Terrier Chihuahua mix. Feeling confused? Just wait until you hear about the Chipoo!

Are Boston Terriers considered a Bully Breed?

Yes! The term “Bully Breed” refers to a specific group of Terrier-type dogs including Boston Terriers, Boxers, American Pitbull Terriers, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and many more.

Do Bossi-Poos shed?

Yes, usually at least a little. Poodles are considered one of the most low-shedding dog breeds and truly do shed very little. Most Poodle owners notice almost no fur at all in their home especially if they keep up with regular grooming and coat maintenance. Boston Terriers on the other hand are moderate shedders year-round, and most Bossi-Poos inherit a little from both sides, causing them to shed.

Are Bossi-Poos hypoallergenic?

No. Because purebred Poodles are so low-shedding, they may be less likely to trigger allergies in individuals who are specifically allergic to dog dander. While the data shows that so-called hypoallergenic dogs contain the same amount of allergy-causing proteins as non-hypoallergenic dogs, there are still individuals who find that low-shedding dogs are more tolerable for their particular allergies. However, because Bossi-Poos are a mix of low-shedding and moderate-shedding breeds, there is no guarantee that your Bossi-Poo will be any less triggering for your allergies than other dogs.

What is a Bossi Poo?

The Bossi Poo is a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a Boston Terrier and a Poodle.

What size can I expect a Bossi Poo to be?

The size of a Bossi Poo can vary depending on the size of its parents, but they generally range from small to medium-sized dogs.

Are Bossi Poos good with children?

Bossi Poos are known to be friendly and sociable dogs, and they can generally get along well with children when properly socialized and trained.

How much exercise does a Bossi Poo need?

Bossi Poos are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Daily walks and playtime are usually sufficient.

How do I groom a Bossi Poo?

Grooming needs can vary depending on the coat type inherited from their parents. Regular brushing, nail trimming, and occasional professional grooming are typically recommended.

Are Bossi Poos easy to train?

Bossi Poos are generally intelligent dogs and can be trainable. Positive reinforcement methods and consistency in training are key to their success.

What is the typical temperament of a Bossi Poo?

Bossi Poos are often described as affectionate, playful, and friendly. They tend to have a good-natured and sociable disposition.

Are Bossi Poos prone to any health issues?

As with any mixed breed, Bossi Poos can inherit certain health conditions from their parent breeds. Common concerns may include eye issues, allergies, and joint problems.

How long do Bossi Poos usually live?

On average, Bossi Poos have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, although individual dogs may vary. Providing proper care, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups can help promote their longevity.

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