As someone who has been surrounded by dogs my entire life, you can imagine the bond I’ve built with my four-legged companions. Growing up with Boxers, I was deeply connected to the breed—strong, energetic, and loyal dogs that made a huge impact on my life. I bred, raised, and loved Boxers for years, but after losing my last one, I struggled with the reality of their relatively short lifespan. It was heartbreaking, and the thought of going through that again made me pause before welcoming another Boxer into my life.

Then, I discovered Boston Terriers.

I had heard that Boston Terriers shared a lot of characteristics with Boxers—playful, spirited, and loving—but with the bonus of a longer lifespan. Curious about the breed, I started doing some research, and before I knew it, I found myself purchasing Piper, my very first small dog, almost three years ago.

Piper isn’t just any dog—she’s my first Boston Terrier and has quickly become an integral part of my life. At the same time, my assistant, who had been thinking about getting her first dog, decided to purchase Piper’s littermate, Maverick. Together, we welcomed both dogs into the wonderfully chaotic life of a horse barn. Piper and Maverick adapted quickly, and though they’re smaller than my Boxers, they bring just as much energy and personality.

Having a small dog like Piper has been a bit of an adjustment for me. Unlike Boxers, Boston Terriers have a more independent streak. While Piper can be sassy and likes to do her own thing, she is incredibly loyal. There’s something special about her bond with me, especially after an accident I had a few years ago.

I broke my leg pretty badly in a riding accident, and the road to recovery was long. At the time, Piper was still fairly young, but something shifted in her when I got injured. She instinctively took on the role of my little guardian. She stuck by my side through every part of the healing process, never leaving me alone. It was as if she knew I needed her, and she became my unwavering source of comfort.

Now, Piper and Maverick are part of the family in every sense of the word. They travel with us to horse shows and spend their days with me at the farm, mingling with the horses and enjoying the barn life. They’ve truly become a way of life for us.

Boston Terriers might be different from the Boxers I’ve always known, but Piper has shown me that small dogs can have just as big of an impact on your heart. She’s loyal, protective, and full of love—everything I could’ve hoped for in a new furry family member.