Manchester Terrier
Terrier Group
Height:15-16 inches  Weight: 15-18 pounds  Color: black and tan

The Manchester Terrier comes in two varieties: Standard and Toy. They were developed in England during the 19th century as vermin hunters. The Toy variety became popular during Queen Victoria's reign. Today, the popularity of the Manchester Terrier has diminished although this breed makes a lovely companion and has retained their working capabilities The Manchester Terrier has a dual history in both England and in the United States, making it a well-traveled breed. In England, the Manchester Terrier was first used as a way to hunt and kill all the rats that were filling up the streets in the 1800s. A man named John Hulme bred a dog by crossing a Whippet and a cross bred terrier to help the 'sport' of rat killing. The result was a dog that was perfectly suited for hunting and killing rats, and thus became a successful dog breed. In the United States, the Manchester Terrier was quickly inducted into the American Kennel Club shortly after the club's inauguration. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1886. General Appearance 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. An easy to train and highly lovable breed, the Manchester Terrier always has a focused expression on its face and can have several different types of ears - cropped, natural erect, and button. 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. Temperament The Manchester Terrier is an alert, inquisitive, and enthusiastic breed. These intelligent dogs are quick to learn, are agile, and have plenty of stamina, which can aid training. However, because of their independent streak, their determination, and their sensitivity they are best suited to owners that have some experience of dog ownership. Some can also be very possessive of their food and belongings. The Manchester Terrier is a lively dog with plenty of energy, and does need regular exercise. However, because of his inquisitive nature and his tendency to chase things you should ensure that he is kept on a leash when out in public, and that he has a play area that is safe and totally secured. These dogs are best suited to families that are active and have time to devote to a pet, as he does need interaction, activity, and attention. Early socialization is important in order to ensure that your Manchester Terrier develops a stable temperament. These dogs get along well with children that they have been brought up with, and with gentle, considerate kids. He will normally be wary around strangers, and his protective streak and tendency to bark makes him a good watchdog. These dogs can get along with other dogs, but can be serious chasers of smaller animals such as rodents. They will normally fight back if challenged, and can be dog aggressive with other adults of the same sex. The Manchester Terrier will be close to his family, but does tend to be closer to one particular person. Although these dogs do love to play and exercise, they also enjoy their comforts, and like to snuggle up in comfortable places. Grooming This breed requires minimal grooming. Occasional brushing will minimize loose hair. It is important to check and clean the ears and teeth on a consistent basis. Health Problems and Life Expectancy The life expectancy of the Manchester Terrier is around 15-18 years, and there are a number of health problems relating to the breed, although by and large this is a fairly healthy and hardy breed. The Manchester Terrier is prone to cataracts, epilepsy, glaucoma, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patella luxation, and Von Willebrands disease. This breed prefers warm climates but should not be left in the sun for any length of time.. Activity Level This highly energetic breed needs an inordinate amount of vigorous exercise. They enjoy frequent securely leashed walks as well as safely fenced off lead play sessions where they are able to romp and run freely. It is imperative that this breed be supervised at all times as they are expert escape artists. The Manchester Terrier will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided that their excessive barking is controlled and they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention.  Custom Search