Manchester Terrier Dog Breed Facts & Personality


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Manchester Terriers, also called “Manchesters,” hail from England and are a rare Terrier breed.

Depending on where you are in the world, these dogs may be considered something slightly different. “In the US and Canada, the Manchester Terrier is one breed that comes in two size varieties: Toy and Standard,” says Michelle Barlak, a Toy Manchester Terrier breeder at Maximal Manchesters. 

However, outside these regions, they are considered two separate breeds. The Standard Manchester Terrier is a Manchester Terrier and the Toy Manchester is an English Toy Terrier.

Known for their reserved yet sensitive nature, Manchester Terriers are bright and affectionate dogs who make wonderful companions.

Keep reading to learn more about this captivating breed and their ideal home.

Key

  • Low
  • Medium
  • High
  • Origin: England
  • Size: Standard, 15–16 inches; Toy, 10–12 inches
  • Weight: Standard, 12–22 pounds; Toy, 10–12 lbs
  • Activity level:
  • Barking/howling level:
  • Good with dogs: yes
  • Good with kids: yes
  • Good for first-time dog parents: yes
  • Shedding:
  • Shedding: Seasonal
  • Hair type: Short and smooth
  • Grooming level:
  • Training level:
  • Drooling level:
  • Escape artist: yes

Manchester Terrier Appearance

Manchester Terriers come in two varieties: Standard and Toy.

Both varieties share the same black-and-tan coloring. Tan markings appear on the paws, forelegs, cheeks (as dots), and as a bow tie on the chest. The tan should be a rich mahogany but may fade with age.

While they may resemble Dobermans or Miniature Pinschers, Manchester Terriers are a distinct breed with their own unique features.

Manchester Terrier Origin & History

The Manchester Terrier has a long history, with its modern form emerging in the 1850s. A London ratcatcher crossbred a black-and-tan terrier with a whippet-like dog to create a skilled vermin hunter. The breed gained its name after becoming popular in Manchester’s cotton mill areas.

Recognized by the American Kennel Club since the late 1800s, both Standard and Toy varieties have retained their distinctive appearance. Though now a rare breed, Manchester Terriers are still bred worldwide.

Notable fans of the breed include President Teddy Roosevelt, who owned a Manchester named Blackjack, and novelist Agatha Christie, who had two—Treacle and Bingo.

Manchester Terrier Pros

Manchester Terriers are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs that bring plenty of charm to their families. Barlak say the traits that make this breed such a fantastic companion include:

Manchester Terrier Cons

While Manchester Terriers are loving and intelligent, they come with a few challenges that might not suit every household. Barlak explores some potential drawbacks to consider before bringing one home, such as:

Manchester Terrier Training

Training and socialization are essential during a Manchester Terrier’s puppy stage, says Joe Nutkins, an accredited dog trainer and canine behaviorist. These dogs mature at 10–12 months, when their hunting and chasing instincts fully emerge.

Early training can be simple, focusing on simple recall and the ‘watch me’ command before building more complex skills. Positive reinforcement works best—rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play. Manchesters also thrive in agility training, obedience, and tricks.

Socialization is just as important. Expose your puppy to a variety of experiences, such as meeting new people, exploring different surfaces, and visiting public spaces. But don’t leave them to their own devices.

“Manchester Terriers are fantastic observers and enjoy watching everything in their surroundings,” Nutkins says. However, don’t be a passive observer; Letting them quietly watch can turn into watching and barking. Work with them to shape positive habits.

As natural hunters, Manchester Terriers can be easily distracted by small dogs or wildlife. Nutkins recommends using play and focus exercises to manage their prey drive and keep them engaged.

Manchester Terrier Grooming

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance breed, the Manchester Terrier is a perfect fit. Their short, smooth coat sheds minimally, making them “a dream for allergy-prone pet parents,” says Bianca Ferrari, ‘Chief Woof Gang Way Officer’ at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming.

Weekly brushing is all they need to remove loose fur and keep their coat shiny. Ferrari recommends using a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to stimulate healthy skin oils, while a soft bristle brush enhances shine.

Ferrari reveals that Manchester Terriers’ hair is naturally low maintenance, so only requires a weekly brush to get rid of loose fur and keep things looking shiny. She recommends using a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to “remove loose fur while stimulating your terrier’s skin to produce healthy oils.” A soft bristle brush is also beneficial in helping enhance the coat’s shine. 

Manchesters shed slightly more in spring and fall, but their hair loss is minimal compared to other breeds. In colder months, some may develop a denser coat for extra warmth.

Don’t overlook nails and ears. “Nail trims are essential every few weeks to ensure your Manchester Terrier maintains proper joint alignment and stays comfortable on their paws,” Ferrari explains. Routine ear cleaning prevents wax buildup and infections. Professional grooming can also help maintain a healthy coat and skin.

Manchester Terrier Health

Manchester Terriers are considered generally healthy and don’t tend to have allergies. However, they can still be affected by various health concerns. The most common include:

  • von Willebrand’s disease: A hereditary blood clotting disorder that causes bleeding gums, nosebleeds, blood in stool, and bruising.
  • Xanthinuria: A rare hereditary kidney disease that can be fatal if not managed with diet or surgery.
  • Juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy: A fatal heart condition in puppies, often with no warning signs. There are usually no warning signs, although some dogs lose their appetite or become depressed beforehand.
  • Legg-Calvé-Perthes (LCP): A hip joint issue in dogs aged 9–12 months, causing mild to severe lameness. Genetics, over-exercise, and jumping may contribute. Treatment involves surgery and physical therapy.
  • Dental disease: Some Manchesters are prone to plaque buildup, which can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and infections. Daily tooth brushing and regular dental checkups are essential for good oral health.

Alternative Dog Breeds to Consider

If you live in a small space or have a busy schedule, a Manchester Terrier might not be right for you. If you’re looking for a similar-sized alternative breed, why not consider one of these?

Getting a Manchester Terrier

Manchester Terriers are a rare breed, making breeders a more reliable source than rescue centers.

“We probably get 1 to 5 dogs per year in [breed rescue] in the whole country,” Barlak reveals. “99% of the dogs we see available from shelters and other rescues labeled as our breed are not Manchester Terriers nor mixes.”

Per American Kennel Club marketplaces, Manchester Terrier puppies cost around $2,000. The American Manchester Terrier Club has a directory for Standard- and Toy-sized Manchester Terrier breeders.

Lastly, Barlak says trustworthy breeders will match you with a puppy that fits your lifestyle or might have an adult dog needing rehomed.

Resources

Chantelle Pattemore

Chantelle Pattemore

Chantelle Pattemore is a writer and editor based in London, UK, and covers everything from pets and lifestyle to health and food. When she's not at her laptop, she loves to travel, read, go for long walks, and find any excuse to visit her friends' cats.