What makes the Toy Manchester Terrier Unique?
Native to Britain, the Toy Manchester Terrier is a rare and spunky breed that makes an excellent pet for active people living in both rural and urban environments.
Breed Groups
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Is the Toy Manchester Terrier Right For You?
Toy Manchester Terriers are quick-witted, intelligent dogs that learn quickly. These canines are mostly obedient and respond well to rewards, but they are still terriers and prone to stubborn behaviors at times. Consistent and attentive training is therefore recommended for members of this breed. These dogs should not be allowed to roam about freely because their desire to chase after small animals or pick fights with larger dogs may get them into trouble. Therefore, they should be kept leashed at all times.
In 5 Words
- Vigilant
- Keen
- Intelligent
- Spirited
- Alert
Characteristics
Learn About the Toy Manchester Terrier
Description
General Description
Although they resemble Miniature Pinschers, Toy Manchester Terriers are an entirely different breed. These small dogs have a compact build, an arched back, and a streamlined body. Their small, almond-shaped eyes should be black in color and display an alert expression. They have black noses and lips. A scissor or level bite is typical for these dogs. Long heads and square muzzles are yet another breed feature. Toy Manchester Terriers also possess erect ears that sit high atop their head. Toy Manchester Terriers should not have their ears cropped because doing so is considered a disqualifying fault by the American Kennel Club and the practice is illegal in most of Europe. These dogs additionally possess a tapered tail of medium length which is carried below their backs. Manchester Terriers also have small feet and slim, well-muscled legs that enable them to move with a fluid and easy gait.
Size
Females of this breed weigh between 7 and 10 pounds (3 and 4 kilograms). They stand around 8 to 11 (20 to 27 centimeters) tall at their withers. Their male counterparts are slightly larger at 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) in height and 8 to 10 pounds (3.5 to 4 kilograms) in weight. Toy dogs are not allowed to be over 12 pounds (5.4 kilograms) in weight.
Coat
These dogs have short, shiny coat that is dense in texture and smooth to the touch. According to the American Kennel Club standards, Manchester Terriers should be black and tan in hue but pure black dogs as well as dogs with tan markings are permitted in the show ring.
Short History of the Toy Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier breed dates back to the 19th century when they were created to destroy vermin. These dogs were originally the products of a cross between a Whippet and a Black and Tan or mixed breed Terrier. Some Italian Greyhound blood may have also entered their lineage over the course of the years. In any case, these dogs proved themselves to be excellent ratters. While there were many similar dogs varieties roaming British Isles, Manchester Terriers became a distinct breed around the 1860s.
About thirty years later, a number of these dogs had been scaled down in size so much that they only weighed about 2 pounds (1 kilogram). Needless to say, these dwarfs were weak specimens and the dogs were eventually brought back to a more reasonable size for health reasons.
The toy version of the Manchester Terrier was recognized in 1886 by the American Kennel Club and the Standard dogs achieved the same status in the year that followed. Members of this breed are currently categorized as toys in America but the Canadian Kennel Club groups them with the terriers. However, the Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale do not acknowledge the existence of a Toy Manchester Terrier breed.
Temperament
Toy Manchester Terriers are a playful and affectionate breed. These devoted canines tend to form lasting attachments to their owners and prefer to live indoors with their human families. Children and other dogs will get along well with members of this breed. However, the same cannot be said for smaller animals such as rabbits and rodents. Manchester Terriers were bred to hunt vermin and these creatures may be viewed as prey rather than members of the family. These terriers are excellent watchdogs but they don’t seem to suffer from problems with excessive barking the way that some breeds do. Manchester Terriers also tend to be shy around strangers.
Caring for Your Toy Manchester Terrier
General Health
These dogs are born in litters that average about 3 puppies each. Although Toy Manchester Terriers have a life expectancy of 15 or more years, there are certain health problems that arise in any breed from time to time. Glaucoma is the main concern for these dogs. Von Willebrand’s disease, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and obesity also present the occasional difficulty. In addition, members of this breed are not well-suited to outdoor life in cold environments so owners should plan accordingly.
Care
Daily
Toy Manchester Terriers will need long daily walks, preferably at a brisk pace. Jogging or running is recommended when exercising with one of these dogs but they will also be happy to accompany cyclists.
Weekly
Once or twice a week, owners will need to brush their pet in order to remove loose fur. It is also a good idea to wipe down these dogs with a damp towel on a weekly basis to keep their coats glossy and free of debris. Regular tooth brushing is likewise recommended as doing so will promote fresh breath and reduce the chance of future health problems.
Monthly
Heartworm, flea, and tick prevention medications should be given to all dogs on a regular basis. Most products need to be administered once a month in order to be fully effective.
Grooming & Bathing
Toy Manchester Terriers only need a bath if they get dirty. Mild shampoo is best for members of this breed. These dogs will need to be dried off quickly after their baths so that they don’t get cold. Owners should pay special attention to the cleanliness of the areas around their pet’s eyes and ears as infections might otherwise occur. Members of this breed also have fast-growing nails that should be kept neatly trimmed in order to prevent injuries.
Exercise & Training
Toy Manchester Terriers are quick-witted, intelligent dogs that learn quickly. These canines are mostly obedient and respond well to rewards, but they are still terriers and prone to stubborn behaviors at times. Consistent and attentive training is therefore recommended for members of this breed. These dogs should not be allowed to roam about freely because their desire to chase after small animals or pick fights with larger dogs may get them into trouble. Therefore, they should be kept leashed at all times.
Although Manchester Terriers are reasonably energetic, puppies are poorly suited for more vigorous forms of exercise. Their activity level should instead be gradually increased as they grow older.
Toy Manchester Terrier Picture Gallery
