Manchester Terrier Breed Info




Energy ***
Trainng **
Watchdog *****
Grooming *

Manchester Terrier is originated from Great Britain and also known as English Toy Terrier
Size: max: 16 inches (H) and 22 lbs (W)
Color: black with mahogany markings on the eyebrows, muzzle, forelegs, under the tail, chest, and inside the ears
Coat: short, smooth, glossy
Personality: alert, affectionate with its family, vocal, wary with strangers, less active than most terriers
Care: socialization, training
Known health problem: skin problems, glaucoma, von Willebrand's disease
Group: terrier dogs

Good with other pets? Untrustworthy with small animals


The creation of the Manchester Terrier is the result of a cross of two amazing breeds - the Black and Tan Terrier and the Whippet. It all started around the early 16th century, in England, as the people there enjoyed the hunting abilities of the Black and Tan when it came to getting rid of rats and other small rodents.

At the turn of industrialization the working class of England also enjoyed dog racing with the Whippet being the main contender. With the Black and Tan Terriers the most popular rodent-killing dogs, and the Whippet the favorite among racing dogs, it was only a matter of time before both breeds would be crossed.

A man named John Hulme, who lived in Manchester, was the first breeder to do so. His goal was to create a dog that could be refined in both areas; rat killing and racing. The resulting breed was a beautiful canine that looked like a Black and Tan Terrier but with a refined back. It was officially known as the Manchester Terrier in 1860, then renamed the Black and Tan Terrier, but changed back to the Manchester in 1923.

The Manchester Terrier has a striking appearance and is one of the more sensitive members of the Terrier Group. Enthusiasts of the breed often describe them as "cat-like" because of its overly-cautious demeanor and independent personality. And these dogs also take great pride in keeping themselves clean, much like a cat does.

When it comes to temperament, the Manchester Terrier is friendly towards other dogs and highly-affectionate with it owners. However, when strange people approach this dog becomes alert and reserved. For this reason they make excellent watchdogs in any household. Manchesters are also very playful and need to expend lots of energy each day. This breed adapts well to most living situations in the city or country, with either an active or sedentary lifestyle.

Taking Care of Your Manchester Terrier

This breed needs daily action but can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash or a romp around the yard. Natural explorers, the Manchester Terrier is most happy when able to roam outside off-leash in a safe area. Ideally, the dog should have access to a fenced-in yard while sleeping indoors with the family at night.

The Manchester has very little tolerance for cold temperatures but can handle hot climates. Their coat is smooth which means minimal grooming needs. A light brushing every couple of weeks just to remove dead hairs is plenty. These dogs also need soft bedding to sleep on.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Manchester Terrier is between fifteen and sixteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues that are common include vWD, cardiomyopathy, and hypothyroidism. Rarely seen is PRA, deafness, patellar luxation, and Legg-Perthes. Veterinarians suggest that Manchester Terrier dogs get specifically tested for DNA for vWD, eye, hip, and thyroid problems.

Manchester Terrier Club

Manchester Terrier Club of America
http://clubs.akc.org/mtca/index.htm

Manchester Terrier House Training Tips