Manchester Terrier
OriginUnited Kingdom
SizeMedium
Lifespan15–17 years
GroupTerriers
Summary
The Manchester Terrier is the most elegant and slender of all terriers, developed in Manchester (hence the name) during the 19th century from rat-hunting terriers crossed with Whippets. This origin gives it a distinctive bearing — the agility and speed of a sighthound in a terrier's body. It was widely used in rat-killing betting (rat pits) that were popular in Victorian England.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 38–41 cm
- Height (female)
- 36–38 cm
- Weight (male)
- 5.4–10 kg
- Weight (female)
- 5–9 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 15–17 years
- Coat
- short, smooth, shiny, dense, and hard to the touch
- Common Colors
- black-and-tan (jet black and mahogany, well-defined markings)
Temperament & Personality
The Manchester is a smart, observant, and very loyal dog to its owner. It has a surprising energy level for its size and needs daily exercise and stimulation. It can be reserved with strangers (Whippet heritage) but is very affectionate with the family. It tends to bark, especially if under-stimulated.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 30–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Hypothyroidism
- Juvenile cardiomyopathy
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Von Willebrand's disease
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- Von Willebrand genetic test
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
