Toy Manchester Terrier

Background and Description

The Toy Manchester Terrier, named after a city in the north of England, is one of the oldest of terriers and one that is both intelligent as well as a very engaging little dog!

This breed is a sleekly built small dog with definite terrier traits whose history dates back prior to the sixteenth century.

The Manchester was originally known as the Black And Tan Terrier, but at some point during the 19th century, the breed's development was influenced by crossings with the Whippet and the Greyhound. Evidence of these physical characteristics is recognizable in the breed today.

Originally these little dogs were used in the north of England for their skill in controlling the rat population in the industrial areas. One of the most accomplished Toy Manchesters was "Tiny" who, in 1848 killed 300 rats in less than an hour, or so it is said!

This appearance of this small dog breed is one of fine structure and good balance. He has upright pointed ears and a well-defined rich coloration of b lack and tan. In England the ears are left natural and folded over.

The Toy variety of the breed became popular during the reign of Queen Victoria.

Appearance:

Height: Toy 10-12 inches, vs. Standard: 15-16 inches.
Color: Black/tan.

Coat and Care:

The Toy Manchester Terrier has a coat that is short, smooth, sleek and glossy. The breed has a natural cleanliness and is free of odor. Shedding is very light in the toy variety and maintenance of the coat is easily handled with a small amount of brushing.

Personality and Traits:

These dogs are very agile fast on their feet. They can be outstanding in activities like agility and their high intelligence makes them a natural for excelling in obedience trials.

Manchesters are very alert and confident, they make good watchdogs. They enjoy pleasing their master and are quick learners which makes training them easy and pleasurable.

As a companion dog, they are sensitive to their owners, as well as very loyal and devoted. They can be a one-person dogs, but this can usually be overcome if they are well-socialized with other pets from an early age. However, given a choice, they do prefer to be the only dog in the household.

Activity Level:

This dog enjoys and should be given a good amount of outdoor exercise. He has a lot of endurance and believe it or not can become your jogging partner if you are so inclined. Just make sure he is gradually accustomed to this type of activity and he will do just fine.

The Manchester doesn't have much body mass and can use a dog coat when taken out on cooler days.

Space Needs:

This breed is not fussy about space and can easily adapt to apartment living as long as they can run around a bit and get out for regular walks. With their light coat and small body mass, they do better in warmer climates.

Children:

Toy Manchester Terriers are best in families with older children who are sensitive and kind with pets that are small and rather delicate as is this one. As always, whenever children play with pets it is always the best policy to have an adult around to supervise.

Elderly:

The Toy Manchester Terrier is affectionate and loyal. The easy care grooming aspects of the breed make them an ideal pet for elderly people or more sedentary families, providing the exercise needs can be arranged.

Fun Stuff for Small dogs:

Dog Jewelry

Dog Hats

Small Dog Carriers

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