Dog Breeds 101: Manchester Terrier

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The small and compact Manchester Terrier was originally bred for vermin control in England during the early 1900s. Manchester Terriers are said to be less stubborn compared to other terrier breeds and are well-mannered when inside the house. These dogs are extremely devoted to their families and want to spend all their time with their owners. They crave companionship and as a result, they can’t be left alone for long periods because they become nervous and will engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging. [1]

The breed has an average life span of 14 to 16 years and is not prone to any major health problems. These dogs can grow up to 16 inches tall at the withers and can weigh between 12 to 22 pounds. They have a long nose, narrow and flat skull and small yet bright eyes. The coat is smooth and only comes in one color combination; black and tan. [2]

During the early 1900s, rats plagued the streets of England due to poor sanitation. Rat killing became a popular sport and terriers were specially bred for this purpose. It is widely believed that the Manchester Terrier came about when a sportsman named John Hulme crossed a Whippet and a Black and Tan Terrier. After the sport was banned, the terriers worked in the country’s public inns for vermin control. A famous Manchester Terrier from the 1820s named Billy is still remembered for having killed 100 rats in only 12 minutes. The breed got its name because the dogs were developed in the Manchester District of England. In the 1860s, smaller Manchester Terriers started to become popular and Chihuahuas were bred into the bloodline to reduce the Manchester’s size. This resulted to smaller but sickly dogs that could be carried in small leather pouches. Although frail, they remained popular for some time. [3]