I'm the breeder behind Irish Heart Bostons located in Kingsport, TN. Our Bostons were picked for quality and obtained through respected breeders. They are thoroughly and regularly vet checked. We've done Embark DNA testing on all our breeding ages dogs. They are on a diet of high quality homemade feed, high quality dry food and vitamin supplements. They are socialized and get along great with cats and children.
About Karen
My husband and I decided as we grew closer to retirement to move to Tennessee from Pennsylvania to raise the last of our 4 children and to start breeding Bostons in a more rural environment. We treat our dogs like our children.
What makes Karen’s program special
We did so much research into this breed and I couldn't be more pleased with our choice. We are a small family owned and home based operation. Our dogs are house raised and trained. They sleep in our room, travel with us often, and have filled the void that our adult children left as they made their own paths. Our dogs are sweet and playful. They have the greatest and unique personalities. They bring tremendous joy to our lives.
Greta
Female • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Lucy
Female • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Coco
Female • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Kim Girl 2
Female • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Kendall
Female • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Lemmy
Male • Went Home Feb. 1
Boston Terrier
Karen has been certified by Good Dog's screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you're ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies. You'll also have the chance to share a bit about yourself and what you're looking for in a new companion. Together, you'll choose the puppy that's right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Puppy prices range from $1,850 - $2,000 and include a deposit of $250.
“Price includes health guarantee of 60 days. Pups will be vet checked and given first set of shots. Each puppy will come with a file with a copy of both parent DNA certificates and lineage. They will also have a care basket. Parents are AKC and pups will come with paperwork needed to register them if buyer so chooses. Breeding rights are an additional charge. If the puppy encounters any medical problem before buyer takes possession and no other puppy is available to substitute.”
Karen may provide a written contract or health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you both have a clear understanding of the terms of your puppy purchase. If Karen offers a contract or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them. If you have any questions or want to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out to Karen directly.
Our first 2 dogs received obedience training through a local trainer. We have used those same methods to train our younger 2 dogs with much success and will incorporate those same methods that are age appropriate to the puppies. I utilize the following enrichment methods: Socialized with other animals, Introduced to people of different ages and appearances, Socialized with other dogs, Daily handling, Scent introduction, Socialized in new places, Socialized with children, Surface & tactile stimulation, Car rides, Various sounds, Crate Training, "No" Biting or Chewing, Leash Walking, and Potty Training.
Certified Good Dog breeders ensure their puppies are healthy and ready for their new homes. Puppies receive the appropriate vaccinations and are dewormed or have a clear fecal exam before they leave. While Irish Heart Bostons hasn’t shared details about their specific health practices yet, we encourage you to reach out to learn more about how they care for their puppies.
We send our puppies home with Registration, Basic obedience & manners, Blanket with mom & littermates’ scent, Food & treats, Initial potty training, Toys, Vet records, and Puppy starter kit.
Karen offers options to help you easily get your new puppy home.
If you’re nearby, you can visit in person to pick up your pup. If you’re far away, you can travel by car or plane.
Work with a trusted transporter to get your puppy comfortably dropped off at a meeting point close to home.
Why Karen started breeding
It was something my husband and I wanted to do for a long time. We decided to wait till we were closer to retirement and set about making it happen roughly 3 years ago. We love all animals.
Karen is a Preferred Good Dog Breeder
Preferred Breeders are recognized for their quick replies and exceptional buyer support.
Karen has been a member of Good Dog for 4 months
Karen was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2024.
Karen’s program includes three colors
Karen’s Boston Terrier puppies include seal brindle and white, black and white, and seal and white. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.
Karen’s links
Irish Heart Bostons meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Boston Terrier
Good level
Irish Heart Bostons reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Boston Terriers.
Hip Dysplasia (rDVM, not registered)
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Eye Examination (rDVM, not registered with OFA)
Eye testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide range of hereditary eye illnesses including retinal dysplasia, lens luxation, and glaucoma, which can cause impared vision or blindness.
Patellar Luxation
Knee testing reduces the chance of passing down Patellar Luxation, which results in the kneecap becoming displaced or dislocated and can cause mild to severe joint pain.
DNA Disease Panel
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).