The Manchester Terrier is a lively, intelligent dog, fast to learn and easy to train. They can be kept in an apartment as they are active indoors and can get by with frequent long walks. A properly fenced in yard is always best for exercise. Keep the Manchester under control or she may chase almost anything that moves. She should be extensively socialized with children, kids and pets at a young age. She was originally bred as a ratter so beware of her with small pets. She can do ok with older, behaved children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

There are two sizes of the Manchester Terrier, Toy and Standard. The Toy size is 10 to 12 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 6 to 8 pounds. The Standard size is 15 to 16 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 17 to 18 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Manchester Terrier is no exception. Be on the look out for Von Willebrands disease (a problem with blood clotting), over eating, lens luxation and Glaucoma. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Manchester Terrier has a short black and tan coat which is shiny and easy care. She should be brushed and rubbed down with a cloth regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

Life Span

The Manchester Terrier can live between 14 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Manchester Terrier comes from Great Britain where they were used as companion dogs and ratters. They are thought to be a combination of the Whippet, other terriers and possibly the Greyhound. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1886.