Manchester Terrier

The Manchester Terrier is a sleek, quick‑witted ratter—athletic, stylish, and devoted to its people. Great for urban owners who enjoy training, fast walks, and a low‑maintenance, low‑shedding coat.

Breed Group
Terrier
Activity Level
High
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Short
Coat Texture
Smooth
Activity Level
High
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Low
Family Friendly
With Older Kids
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred
Manchester Terrier sitting alert on a forest path, glossy black-and-tan coat with erect ears, full-body centered portrait.

Breed History

Developed in 19th‑century England by blending Black & Tan Terriers with whippet‑type dogs for speed, the Manchester excelled at rat control and sporting contests. Today it’s a stylish companion and performance dog recognized globally.

Physical Characteristics

Balanced and true to type with hallmark features.

  • Weight: 12–22 lb (5.5–10 kg)
  • Height: 15–16 in (38–41 cm)
  • Coat type: Short, smooth single coat
  • Coat colors: Jet black with rich mahogany tan points
  • Distinctive traits: Lean, racy build; keen expression; elegant head; tight cat‑like feet

Grooming

Very easy coat—routine hygiene is enough.

  • Brushing: Weekly soft glove.
  • Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed.
  • Nails/Teeth: Frequent nail trims; diligent dental care.

Exercise Needs

High terrier energy in a sleek package.

  • Daily duration: 45–60 minutes.
  • Activities: Brisk walks, fetch, agility/rally, scent games.

Training Tips

Bright and fast—keep training upbeat and precise.

  • Focus areas: Recall, impulse control, polite greetings.
  • Approach: Reward‑based; avoid harsh methods.

Nutrition & Diet

Small‑to‑medium portions for a lean athlete.

  • Quantity: ~1.5–2.5 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to activity.

Adoption & Breeders

Seek terrier‑savvy breeders or rescues familiar with the breed.

  • Breeders: Club referrals; verify patella/eye/thyroid results.
  • Rescue: Manchester Terrier networks in Canada/US.

Health Concerns

Generally healthy; choose breeders who screen patellas, eyes, and thyroid.

  • Orthopedic: Patella checks recommended.
  • Eyes: Screening recommended.
  • Thyroid: Screening recommended.
  • Life expectancy: 12–15 years.

Frequent Asked Questions

Apartment‑friendly?
Yes—with daily exercise and enrichment.

Do they shed?
Low—short, smooth coat.

How trainable?
High with upbeat methods.

Good with kids?
Best with older, respectful children.

Prey drive?
Present—manage off‑leash and small‑pet introductions.

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Manchester Terrier sitting alert on a forest path, glossy black-and-tan coat with erect ears, full-body centered portrait.
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