Description

There are two varieties of the Manchester Terrier: Toy and Standard. Originally called the Black & Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier is a small, compact, agile dog with a long tapering head. The ears are v-shaped, and may be naturally folded over, pricked up, or cropped (in the toy variety, the ears must be naturally erect). The small dark eyes are almond-shaped. The nose is black. The teeth should form a scissors bite. The back is slightly arched - showing the breed's Whippet heritage. The short, whip tail tapers to a point. The coat colors are black & tan.

Origin

The Manchester Terrier's nickname is the "rat terrier" since it was developed as a rat hunter in nineteenth century Manchester, England by a man named John Hulme. The Manchester was considered to be the best vermin hunting breed of the day. A Manchester Terrier named Billy supposedly killed 100 rats in only 6 minutes, 13 seconds in a British contest! Though he looks like a Miniature Doberman, the breeds are not related. The Manchester Terrier was the result of crosses between the Black & Tan Terrier and the Whippet. There are two types of Manchester Terrier: the Standard and Toy. The Toy variety became popular during the reign of Queen Victoria, when miniaturization was the rage. Some tiny Victorian-age dogs weighed only 2½ pounds (1kg). Today, the Manchester is primarily a companion, though the Standard Manchester can still serve as a rodent killer. The Manchester Terrier's popularity has somewhat diminished, even in its native city.

Temperament

The Manchester Terrier is a high-spirited, very intelligent, and cunning dog which is eager to learn. They display the true Terrier nature, are independent, and faithful. Extremely lively, sporty, alert, keen and vigilant. Discerning and devoted, it is loyal and a good friend to its master. The Manchester Terrier likes to please its handler and learns quite quickly. They thrive on attention from their owners. They do not do well left alone for long periods of time. They can become bored, hyper, destructive, and bark excessively if left alone and ignored. They very much wish to be with their people. These dogs can be outstanding in activities like agility skills and catch and also do well in obedience trials. The Manchester Terrier should be thoroughly socialized when it is young to prevent potential aggression. He can be headstrong, protective and snappish if not raised properly. This breed needs thorough, firm training. Sources differ on the breed's combativeness with other dogs. Ask your breeder about this characteristic in specific lines. Manchester Terriers should not be trusted with other small non-canine animals and must be introduced to children as a young pup.

Height

Height: Dogs 8-10 inches (21-25cm.) Bitches 8-9 inches (20-23cm.)

Weight

Weight: from 6½-9 pounds (3-4kg.)

Known Health Problems

Some lines are prone to a blood problem called glaucoma. Also some are prone to a bleeding disorder called Von Willebrand's disease, but this is rare and wounds heal quickly. If left out in the sun for long periods, heat bumps may appear along its back.

Conditions for Living

The Manchester Terrier is a good dog for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Manchester Terriers prefer warm climates.

Exercise Requirments

The Manchester Terrier demands plenty of exercise. In addition to the These dogs can run very fast and keep the speed up for a long time. This dog greatly enjoys exercising by running alongside a bicycle, provided the amount of exercise is built up gradually. Don't let this breed off the leash except in a secure area unless it has been trained, as he likes to chase.

Life Expectancy

About 15 or more years.

Grooming

The short, shiny black & tan coat is easy to care for, requiring almost no grooming. The Manchester Terrier is a good, easy-care breed for elderly people. The Manchester Terrier is an average shedder, while the Toy Manchester Terrier sheds little to no hair. Keep the ear passages clean and the claws short.

Group

Terrier, AKC Terrier The Toy variety is AKC Toy.