MANCHESTER TERRIER
APPEARANCE
The Manchester Terrier is a small but sturdy creature, and has an alert and intelligent expression. He is smooth haired with long tapering nose, narrow flat skull, eyes small and bright, chest rather deep than wide. Coat colour could be Black or Tan. Two strains of the Manchester terrierare currently recognized: the Standard and Toy varieties. The main differences between the two are their size, and that cropping of the ears is allowed only in the standard variety. The weight of the Manchester Terrier is around 12-16 pounds for females and 16-22 pounds for males. The height of these dogs is around 15-17 inches.
PERSONALITY
Like many terriers, the Manchester Terrier is a breed with high energy and a mischievous streak; unlike some other terriers, the dog tends to be very responsive to his master. 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.
TRAINING
The Manchester Terrier has ample potential to become excellent in obedience and agility because they have a high intelligence level. They will need very firm training as most terriers do, and consistency to ensure the information given to them is completely memorized. Positive training methods are a must because if taught in a negative fashion, these dogs will not succeed in any type of training. They have a very eager attitude towards pleasing their master so in general, the Manchester Terrier will not be difficult to train.
EXERCISE
The Manchester Terrier is a lively dog with plenty of energy, and does need regular 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. 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.
SOCIALIZATION
These dogs get along well with children that they have been brought up with, and with gentle, considerate kids. They can be quite stubborn when they want to be left alone and can tend towards snappiness. This is why early and frequent socialization is so important. The Manchester Terrier does best with a handler who can offer consistent, steady discipline. Take great care when keeping a Manchester Terrier around other pets or children because of its dominance issues and potentially aggressive tendencies.
LIVING CONDITIONS
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. This breed enjoys the outdoors in warm weather and they don’t like cool climates.
GROOMING
The Manchester Terrier requires very little grooming because of its short coat. They are average shedders and may prove suitable for some allergy sufferers. Nails should be clipped regularly and care should be taken to keep ears clean.
HEALTH ISSUES
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.
HISTORY
Once known as the Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier originates from England, and enjoys a long history dating back several hundred years. Developed as a rat catcher and vermin hunter, this breed has become a popular companion dog and family pet. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1886.
