Manchester Terriers, though make an excellent companion and show dogs now, were developed as ratters and hunt small games. The Manchester Terrier comes in two varieties – standard and toy. Both types come in compact sizes, which makes them suitable in any kind of home.
These dogs feature a tight coat that comes in rich mahogany tan and jet black colors. They also have long, wedge-shaped heads and tan spots above each eye, giving them a watchful expression.
Both types are generally the same when it comes to their personalities. They are the best fit for owners who can give them enough time and attention. You should also ensure that they have space inside your homes because their thin coats will make them uncomfortable.
Manchester Terrier Breed Statistics
| Dog Breed Group | Toy Group (Toy); Terrier Group (Standard) |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Height | 10-12 inches (Toy); 15-16 inches (Standard) |
| Weight | under 12 pounds (Toy); 12-22 pounds (Standard) |
| Lifespan | 15-17 years |
Manchester Terrier Breed Ratings
| Energy level | |
| Exercise needs | |
| Requires attention | |
| Playfulness | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Grooming | |
| Friendly with family | |
| Friendly with kids | |
| Friendly with strangers | |
| Friendly with other dogs | |
| Prey Drive |
Manchester Terrier History
Manchester Terriers are thought to be small versions of Dobermans, which is no wonder considering their looks. These dogs are considered one of the oldest of all terrier breeds and have records way back in the early 16th century.
The development of these dogs served an essential role in England in the early 1800s. These dogs spent most of their time killing rats that were a menace in the country. They worked in public inns, which were one of the places infested with the vermin.
The name Manchester was derived from the Manchester District of England, the center of the breeding of these terriers. Though the standard size was already a fitting companion for gentlemen, the women wanted a smaller version.
So, breeders further bred the Manchesters with Chihuahuas to reduce their size. Problems did occur, and the dogs were found to be delicate and unhealthy. However, even if that was the case, they were still very popular during the Victorian era.
Years went by, and the dogs were soon imported to the United States. The two varieties of Manchester Terriers were always considered separate breeds until 1859 when they were finally combined.
However, AKC still separated the groupings where the Standards Manchester Terriers were placed under the terrier group, and the Toy Manchester Terriers under the toy group.
By 1923, the Manchester Terrier Club of America was formed. Now, they currently rank 133rd as the most popular dog breed in the US.
Although they are not as popular as other dogs, owners of the breed can swear how great companions these little dogs are.
Manchester Terrier Temperament
Manchester Terriers are agile, spirited, and intelligent dogs. They are best paired with active families who can give them enough exercise daily. It’s essential to take these dogs out for a walk or run, even if they are also happy staying beside you on a couch.
This dog breed generally loves to play. It doesn’t matter who he plays with as long as he is entertained. They get along well with other dogs that grew up with him. So even if you’re not around, your other dogs can keep him happy.
However, when it comes to strange animals, their temperament may vary. They will usually stand their ground around strange dogs and will not back down from a fight when challenged. It’s also not best to keep them another dog of the same breed and sex.
Manchester Terriers are devoted and loving to their families, but they are wary of strangers. They make excellent watchdogs despite his small size, and you may have to expect them to bark excessively when he sees someone suspicious.
True to their origin as rat killing machines, these are not the dogs to get if you have rabbits and other small animals. They were bred to kill small animals, even if they are not aggressive dogs.
It’s crucial to socialize and train them at an early age. Get them accustomed to new things, people, and animals. This will help tone down their aggressive nature and make them more well-rounded.
If you’re training him, make sure to be confident, consistent, and firm. Don’t be harsh on the breed as they can be very sensitive. Positive reinforcements will always be a better course instead of hitting them.
Manchester Terrier Care Requirements
- Nutrition: These small dogs don’t have any special dietary requirements. The only thing you’d have to remember is to give them high-quality and well-balanced meals daily. And since these are small dogs, you should also watch for the number of calories you feed them every day. It’s best to ask your vet regarding this so he can guide you on how much to feed your dog depending on his age and activity level. You should also ask if your dog is allergic to any particular food ingredient so you can stay away from those. If you’re feeding dog food, make sure to choose the premium quality ones. Check the label and make sure that it doesn’t contain any fillers, additives, and by-products that can be harmful to your dog.
- Grooming: Manchester Terriers have short and smooth coats that are very easy to maintain. The hair sheds occasionally, so weekly brushing will help in removing debris and excess hair. Baths can be given occasionally, depending on your dog’s activities. But we recommend wiping his coat with a damp towel always to give him that healthy shine. You should also regularly clean the ears to prevent ear infection. Nails should be trimmed regularly as well. If possible, do this every two weeks, so your dog’s nails don’t become too long, causing pain and discomfort.
- Exercise: Manchester Terriers are described as active, swift, and athletic dogs. Therefore, it’s essential to give them regular exercise to keep them healthy and fit. Exercises can be in the form of daily long walks with their owners or chasing tennis balls in the backyard. If you want to let him run free on his own, it should be in a securely fenced area so they won’t stray away.
- Health: Manchester Terriers are generally healthy dogs that have long lifespans. However, just like any dog breed, they are susceptible to a few health conditions, and as dog owners, it’s always best to be aware of those. Health dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are bone diseases that are common to the dog. You should also watch out for glaucoma, an eye disease. Hypothyroidism and Von Willebrand’s Disease can be inherited, so it’s still best to meet at least one of your dog’s parents. It’s also important not to let your dog stay too long under the sun as he may develop heat bumps in the back. We recommend doing some research and knowing the symptoms of diseases. Then, closely monitor your dog’s behavior and take him to the vet if there are any changes.
- Lifespan: The life expectancy of Manchester Terriers is 15-17 years.
Famous Manchester Terriers
- Billy: A Manchester Terrier that managed to kill 100 rats in 12 minutes
Fun Facts about Manchester Terriers
- Manchester Terriers were developed in England way back in the 16th century.
- The dogs were used for hunting rats around the 1800s.
- Their name came from the area where they were most bred, Manchester.
- The dogs were developed by crossing a Black and Tan Terrier, Whippet, and possibly Italian Greyhounds.
- There come two varieties – Toy and Standard Manchester Terriers.
- They don’t do well under too much heat.
- The two types were only considered as one breed in 1959.
Check Out Other Terrier Dog Breeds:
Airedale Terrier, American Hairless Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Australian Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Border Terrier, Bull Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Cesky Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terriers, Glen of Imaal Terriers, Irish Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Lakeland Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Norfolk Terrier, Norwich Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Rat Terrier, Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Sealyham Terriers, Skye Terrier, Smooth Fox Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Welsh Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier