Manchester Terrier, Toy

The Toy Manchester Terrier is a lively, intelligent breed that is eager to learn. Like its Standard variation (which weighs more than 12 lbs), the Toy Manchester descends from black and tan terriers originally bred for their rat-killing prowess. They are known for their agility and compact build.

Appearance

They stand 10 to 12 inches at the shoulders and weigh 6 to 12 pounds (larger Manchester Terriers are considered Standard). They possess a short, smooth coat in black and tan. Their tails taper, and they have long, wedge-shaped heads. Their compact, muscular bodies expresses their rat-catcher heritage -  showcasing the breed’s power and agility.

Personality

Extremely loyal, the Manchester Terrier is watchful and devoted to its owner. Some have commented that their characteristics may resemble cats: particularly an aloof attitude towards strangers, tidiness, and independence. Its terrier heritage makes it inherently scrappy, but they are friendly to other breeds. They can be patient with children they are accustomed to. Toy Manchester Terriers make alert watchdogs and will bark at strangers.

History

Named for the Manchester district of England, the Toy Manchester Terrier was originally bred for its rat-killing prowess and originates from the Black and Tan Terrier, the oldest known terrier breed. Modern Manchester Terriers retain this skill and can efficiently control rodents in the home. Besides size, Standard and Toy Manchester Terriers also differ in ear type; both varieties can have erect ears, but only the Standard can have button ears.

Care

While it enjoys the occasional romp outside, the Toy Manchester Terrier is very much an indoor breed and hates the cold. It should be provided with warm bedding. Its short coat requires minimal brushing: occasional brushings to remove dead hairs will suffice. The breed is intelligent and suitably easy to train; however, if not obedience trained, they can become stubborn and rebellious. They should not be left to their own devices – the breed can degenerate into destructive behavior without suitable mental stimulation.

Health

A relatively healthy breed, the Toy Manchester Terrier lacks the knee disorders common of toy breeds. However, minor health concerns include lens luxation, Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome, and Von Willebrand’s disease. As such, their eyes and DNA should be tested. The average expected lifespan of the breed is 14 to 16 years.

Conditions Summary

 

• Lens Luxation: a condition where the lens within the eye becomes dislocated or displaced.
• Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome: a degenerative disease of the hip joint.
• Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD): a common, inherited bleeding disorder where the clotting process is compromised – similar to hemophilia in humans.

 

References

The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Manchester Terriers: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Manchester Terrier Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog.  

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Manchester Terrier (Toy)." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds.  

"American Kennel Club - Manchester Terrier." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.  

"Choosing a Manchester Terrier." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information.  

"Lens Luxation in Dogs." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information. 

"Legg-Perthes Disease (Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head) in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.

"Von Willebrand's Disease (vWD): A Type of Hemophilia in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.