Manchester Terrier

The Manchester Terrier is alert, intelligent and enthusiastic. They are a lively breed of dog with plenty of stamina and an eagerness to please. As such it is possible to train this breed quickly and they excel at agility skills and obedience trials. Manchester Terriers have an independent streak, however they also thrive on attention from their owners and dislike being left alone. They can become destructive and bark excessively when bored.
This breed should be well socialised when young so that they are used to humans taking a leadership role and setting boundaries.
Manchester Terriers can be aggressive if challenged and they have a tendency to chase smaller animals. They can make good family pets and get along with children if they are brought up around them from being puppies.

Manchester Terriers are small and sturdy with a short black and tan coat. They weigh around 18 pounds (8kg) for Dogs and 17 pounds (7.7kg) for Bitches. Their height is approximately 15-16 inches (39-40cm).

Manchester Terriers are low maintenance in terms of grooming and only need the occasional wipe down with a damp cloth and a brush. They do require a large amount of exercise however, they like to run and they should definitely have daily walks.

The approximate life expectancy of the Manchester Terrier is 15 to 18 years and they are generally a fairly healthy breed. Some health problems to watch out for in this breed include Von Willebrand's disease, seizures and Legg Perthes. They also tend to gain weight easily and get heat bumps on their back if left out in the sun for too long. Parents of the Manchester Terrier puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

The Manchester Terrier was a result of crossing the Black and Tan Terrier and the Whippet. It was developed in Manchester for the purpose of catching rats and other vermin.