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History
The Manchester Terrier 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 tough black-and-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 two and one-half pounds. Today, the Manchester is primarily a companion, though the Standard Manchester can still serve as a rodent killer.
Description
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 ear 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 short, shiny black-and-tan coat is easy to care for, requiring almost no grooming.
Talents
Watchdog.
Personality
Very active, clean and smart. A good friend to his master. Can be headstrong and protective. Should be thoroughly socialized when young to prevent potential aggression. Can be snappish. Needs thorough, firm training. Sources differ on the breed's combativeness with other dogs. Ask breeders about this characteristic in specific lines.
Behavior
Children: Good only when raised with children from puppyhood.
Friendliness: Moderately protective.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Not generally trustworthy with other pets.
Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs.
Noise: Average barker.
Notes
Must be introduced to children as a young puppy. A good, easy care breed for elderly people. Don't let this breed off leash except in a secure area, as he likes to chase. Not good with other animals. Some lines are prone to blood problems and glaucoma.
Grooming
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Docking: The ears are customarily cropped.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Very active indoors.
Apartments: Good for apartment living.
Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Longevity: Long (15 or more years).
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