The Manchester Terrier is a descendant of Britain's Black and Tan Terrier and was bred as a "ratting machine." His primary purpose being to keep a farm's rat and rabbit population under control. He is neither a miniature version of the Doberman Pinscher nor a Miniature Pinscher. The Manchester Terrier is a very old breed and has been used as the foundation stock for a number of other breeds.
In Canada and the United States, Manchester Terriers are either "Standard" or "Toy". While the Standard Manchester weighs between 12 and 22 pounds (5.5 to 11 kg), the Toy version should weigh less than 12 pounds (5.5 kg) and, in the Toy variety only the naturally erect ear type is acceptable while the Standard's ear type may be either cropped, button or naturally erect.
The Manchester is a loyal, affectionate and devoted companion. Observant, alert and discerning with strangers, he is neither shy nor aggressive. Most Manchesters are as comfortable spending a day lounging around as they are in more active pursuits, making them an ideal companion dog for many types of lifestyles. Some of the activities that Manchesters are involved in include: Conformation, Obedience, Flyball, Agility as well as working as Therapy dogs.
His coat is short and glossy with the base coat a glossy black with precise tan markings over each eye, on each cheek, the lips of the upper and lower jaws extending to the throat, the inside of the ears, the forelegs to the knee, the inside of the hind legs and under the tail.
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Health Issues:
If you are considering the adoption of a Manchester Terrier puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC MANCHESTER TERRIER VIDEO
22 Min. Video Edition Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com |
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Grooming Information:
The Manchester Terrier has an "easy-care" coat that requires a minimum of grooming. However, the short, sleek coat does shed and, therefore, regular weekly brushing should be done in order to help reduce the amount of shedding as well as keep the coat glossy and shiny.
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Manchester Terrier, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
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