Manchester Terrier

Not Good with Kids: In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to mitigate the risks, have the puppy grow up with kids and provide it with plenty of pleasant and relaxed experiences with them. This breed is also friendly toward other pets and friendly toward strangers.

The Manchester Terrier demands plenty of exercise. In addition to the normal daily walks, let it run and play off the leash regularly. These dogs can run very fast and keep the speed up for a long time. This dog greatly enjoys exercising by running alongside a bicycle, provided the amount of exercise is built up gradually. Do not allow this breed off the leash except in a secure area unless it has been trained, as he likes to chase.

The Manchester Terrier is perhaps the sleekest and raciest of all terriers, with a smooth, compact, muscular body, slightly longer than tall and a slightly arched topline. The combination of power and agility enables the breed to course and kill small game and vermin. Its gait is free and effortless, not hackney. Its expression is keen and alert, and its coat is smooth and glossy.

The Manchester terrier has been described as "catlike," being impeccably clean, independent, reserved with strangers, yet sensitive. It is more responsive than many terriers and is generally a well-mannered house dog. It is devoted to its family, and enjoys napping at its special person's side. Otherwise, it is busy, ever nosing around for adventure or a game. Some tend to dig.

The Manchester Terrier is a direct descendent of the early English Black and Tan Terrier, which was highly prized for its working ability as a "ratting" dog in the industrial areas of the North of England. These early dogs were more rugged than the breed is today, but the Manchester still maintains the physical structure of a working terrier. When first officially classified, all smooth-coated, black and tan terriers (including the smaller, Toy, variety) were called Old English Terriers. The present breed type was said to be influenced by the possible introduction of Whippet blood for refinement, plus the Bull Terrier and White English Terrier. Samuel Handley of Manchester, England, is credited with stabilizing the breed. As a result of his efforts the breed became known as the Manchester.