Manchester Terrier Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Manchester Terrier?

Taking its name from the British city in which it originates, the Manchester Terrier is thought to be the oldest of the Terrier breeds. Their name appears in books as far back as the 16th century, and they remain popular up until the present day.

During the 1800s, they were used to catch rats in Britain's poorly sanitised towns and inns, something which they greatly excelled at. The breed became very popular around the country, and they were eventually exported to the United States.

After the Second World War, the breed nearly became extinct, but they were saved in large part thanks to the efforts of the British Manchester Terrier Club.

Who are Manchester Terrier dogs best for?

These dogs are best suited to owners who love long walks and spending time in the great outdoors. Manchesters are full of energy and require vigorous daily activity. Therefore, they're not a good choice for those who live a more sedentary lifestyle.

They can adapt to life in the city or the countryside and make excellent watchdogs. So, if security is a factor for you, the Manchester Terrier could be your ideal canine companion.

How much grooming does a Manchester Terrier need?

The Manchester Terrier's short coat is very low maintenance, and the breed tends to be naturally clean. They simply need to be wiped down once a week with a damp cloth and bathed around every three months. So, you won't be finding dog hair everywhere.

Manchesters do require regular nail trimming so that the alignment of their joints is properly maintained, and this should be done every two weeks. It's also recommended that you clean their ears regularly to keep them from becoming infected.

Do Manchester Terrier bark much?

As with most terriers, Manchesters tend to be prone to barking quite a lot. Their alertness means they're good watchdogs but also makes them a vocal breed.

Although you'll never be able to rid them of this characteristic, it can be lessened through proper training and adequate exercise. If you're Manchester Terrier is bored, they're going to get yappy!

Do Manchester Terrier bite?

Manchesters aren't known for having a tendency to bite and are not usually aggressive dogs. If they're properly socialised and trained, this type of behaviour shouldn't be an issue.

Like most other dogs nipping, and play-biting are common when they're a puppy, but once they're an adult dog, this should naturally subside.

What is the temperament & personality of a Manchester Terrier?

The Manchester Terrier is playful, loyal, intelligent, and loves spending time with its owner. Although they are very energetic, they are not usually high-strung and mostly have a gentle temperament.

Due to their ratting heritage and true terrier nature, they have the instinct to hunt other animals such as hamsters and squirrels. For this reason, they should always be kept on a leash when being walked.

To keep them happy and well behaved, regular exercise is an absolute must, so be prepared to get those walking boots out. They also enjoy games and need plenty of mental stimulation.

What is the weight & size of a Manchester Terrier?

The height and weight of the Manchester Terrier vary depending on whether they're a Toy or Standard size.

Toy size will weigh no more than 5.4kg and, on average, will be between 2.5kg-3.5kg. Their height will be between 25cm-30cm.

Standard size will weigh more than 5.4kg and, on average, will be between 7.0kg-7.8kg. Their height will be between 39cm-40cm.

How much training does a Manchester Terrier need?

The Manchester Terrier is easier to train than some other dogs, but they are stubborn and like to think for themselves. To train them properly, you'll need to make their training sessions both engaging and fun. If they get bored, they'll simply stop paying attention or start causing mischief.

Like with other breeds, they need to be socialised as early as possible so that they get used to being around other dogs and young children.

If you're looking for a breed to train in dog sports, then the Manchester is the ideal choice. They can be trained to take part in barn hunting, lure coursing, flyball, tracking and freestyle dancing.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Manchester Terrier?

Manchesters are generally healthy, but like all purebred dogs, they are susceptible to certain genetic health problems.

• Von Willebrand's Disease - this condition affects the blood clotting process. Symptoms include gums bleeding, nosebleeds and prolonged bleeding after surgery. It's incurable but can be managed through treatment if properly diagnosed.

• Glaucoma - this issue is caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. It's quite painful and results in damage to the optic nerve, which leads to blindness. It's treated with surgery and medication.

• Hip Dysplasia - this is when the hip becomes deformed during growth and leads to looseness and pain in the joint. It can cause limping and develop into arthritis.

• Heat Bumps - if your Manchester is out in the sun for too long, they can develop small bumps along their back. This is easily prevented by making sure they get lots of shade when out for long walks in the heat.

Most health problems in dogs are easier to treat if they're diagnosed early. So, be sure to take your pooch for regular checkups at the vet.

What is the lifespan of a Manchester Terrier?

The average life expectancy for a Manchester Terrier is 14-16 years. If they're cared for properly, and get plenty of exercise, then they can exceed this. Either way, your canine buddy is going to be around for quite some time!

How much should you feed a Manchester Terrier?

Your Manchester will need around 1 cup of dry food a day, split into two meals. They may need more or less depending on their age, size and activity levels. Always be sure to choose a high-quality food that's high in nutrients and low in fat.

This breed can be prone to obesity, so be careful with the amount you feed them. It's always good to consult a vet to help you plan out your dog's diet.

What is the price of a Manchester Terrier in Australia?

A new puppy will usually cost between $600-$1,000.

To make sure you're getting a healthy puppy, always use a reputable breeder, and avoid going to a puppy mill or pet store. You can find lists of reputable breeders by contacting a national breed club, such as the Australian National Kennel Council.