Manchester Terrier (Standard)
The Manchester Terrier is a breed of dog of the smooth-haired terrier type. It was bred in the 19th century for rat catching and rabbit coursing in the city of Manchester, England, hence the breed name. The Manchester Terrier's origins date back to the early 19th century in Manchester, England, when John Hulme crossed a Whippet with a cross-breed terrier. His goal was to create a breed that was quick and agile enough to chase down and catch rats, yet robust and courageous enough to tackle them. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1916 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1887.
- Origin
- England
- Alternate Names
- Black and Tan Terrier
- Life Expectancy
- 15-17 years
- Average Male Height
- 15-16 inches
- Average Female Height
- 15-16 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 12-22 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 12-22 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Black, Black & Tan
- Coat Pattern
- Tan Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Manchester Terriers are generally healthy dogs. Their toy breed partners are known to suffer from juvenile cardiomyopathy, but it is still unknown if the standard Manchester Terrier size suffers from the same genetic mutations associated with this condition. It is best practice to consider the possibility of such a heart condition if there is planned anesthesia or surgery. When young, Manchester Terriers may suffer from patellar luxations.
Personality and Behavior
Manchester Terriers are an agile sport dog that loves a good chase. They're lively and spirited dogs with a strong prey drive due to their ratting origins. They are known for their intelligence, agility, and affectionate nature. Manchester Terriers tend to be reserved with strangers, but loyal and loving towards their families. They also have a tendency to be somewhat stubborn, so they benefit from consistent, positive reinforcement training method.
Fun Facts
Manchester Terriers come in two sizes, toy and standard. Standard sizes are up to 22lb while Toys are up to 12lbs.
The Manchester Terrier was once known as the "Gentleman's Terrier" due to its refined appearance and demeanor.
This breed was one of the first to be registered by The Kennel Club when it formed in 1873.
Manchester Terriers have been known to excel in various dog sports, such as obedience, agility, and earthdog trials.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/manchester-terrier-standard/
https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/terrier/manchester-terrier/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/manchester-terrier
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/MANCHESTER-TERRIER-71.html
https://vetmed.umn.edu/research/labs/canine-genetics-lab/genetic-testing/juvenile-cardiomyopathy