Manchester Terrier
Temperament:
The Manchester Terrier is an old British dog breed. It is recognized by the FCI and is assigned to Group 3 (high-breed terriers). This dog is neither a typical terrier in appearance nor in character. These intelligent four-legged friends are very sensitive and affectionate. They are ideal family dogs and have a lot to offer.
Characteristics
The Manchester Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog breed. On average, the animals reach a shoulder height of approx. 40 cm. The weight of an adult dog is usually between 5 and 7 kg. For their size, these dogs are true lightweights. The bitches are usually somewhat smaller and correspondingly lighter than the males.
Overall, the Manchester Terrier has a petite build. As a result, the dogs usually appear very slender. The animals have long, slender legs and a narrow tail. The handsome dogs also have a long muzzle with large dark eyes. The ears of the Manchester Terrier are set in a V-shape on the top of the head. Visually, they are therefore very similar to the German Pinscher.
A very special distinguishing feature of the breed is its smooth, silky, shiny coat. It is very short and close-fitting. In general, the coat of the Manchester Terrier is deep black with some mahogany brown markings. These are usually found on the paws, lower legs or chest.
The Manchester Terrier is exceptionally elegant and proud. Its overall appearance is vital and harmonious.
The nature of these lovable four-legged friends is extremely versatile and therefore unique. On the one hand, the dogs have typical terrier characteristics. They are very active and alert. The dogs are constantly on the move and have a strong hunting instinct. They are also considered intelligent and docile. They learn very quickly and can apply what they have learned immediately. These agile dogs are also well suited to being taught various tricks.
The Manchester Terrier is a particularly playful and cheerful dog breed. The animals also have their own little stubborn streak. They have their own ideas and are not particularly submissive. This trait is characteristic of terriers of all kinds.
At the same time, the animals also have a completely different side. They are no longer pure hunting dogs, but perfect companion dogs. They are considered sensitive and delicate. This is actually unusual for terriers and is probably due to cross-breeding with other dog breeds. These four-legged friends build up a very close and intense bond with their owners. They want to be part of family life.
That's why the Manchester Terrier gets on particularly well with children. They romp and play with them and look after them well at the same time. These dogs are not easily provoked or upset. This is also rather unusual for terriers.
The Manchester Terrier does not specifically choose a caregiver. They like to integrate themselves into the whole family. This pleasant characteristic makes the Manchester Terrier an ideal family dog. The animals are generally considered to be adaptable. They adapt relatively quickly and easily to different living situations and circumstances.
Although the dogs are considered to be very courageous and fearless, they often approach strangers with mistrust and a certain distance. This is not usually the case when interacting with other dogs. Here the animals are sociable. There is no gratuitous barking, growling or other aggressive behavior.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
When choosing food, make sure that it contains high-quality ingredients, is balanced and meets your dog's requirements. Age, size or weight, activity and health status play an important role. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of food.
Treats should only be fed in moderation and deducted from the basic diet to avoid obesity.
Puppies can be fed 4-6 times a day. The number of meals should be gradually reduced to 2 per day until the dog is fully grown. A rest period should be observed after meals.
Fresh drinking water should be available at all times.
Health & Care
Basically, the Manchester Terrier is a very low-maintenance dog. Grooming is child's play. A light brushing from time to time is completely sufficient.
The pretty Manchester Terrier likes to move around a lot. Long walks in the countryside are an absolute must for these dogs. They need a lot of exercise to feel good. The Manchester Terrier also likes to roam in the great outdoors. This is probably due to their pronounced instinct and hunting instinct.
It is important for the owner to exercise the dog both physically and mentally. Walks on varied routes, participation in dog sports or other joint activities are suitable.
The Manchester Terrier is an excellent companion dog. If there is no time for long walks, the dog can simply be taken along to appointments or outings. With good training, the dogs are very easy to handle and do not attract negative attention.
They also really enjoy spending time with their family. So there doesn't always have to be a program for him. Small outings or intensive time with their owners also make the dog happy.
Training this breed is somewhat more complicated. This is due to the dog's complex nature. However, with a little experience and loving consistency, the animals can be trained very well. They do not tolerate strictness and punishment particularly well. They are resentful and very sensitive. Instead, an intimate basis of trust should be created.
However, with a little patience and a positive attitude, you can get a lot out of these little fur noses. These dogs want to be trained and enjoy working closely with people. It makes sense to see the dog as a companion and to respect it as such. Attempts to force the animals into submission usually fail.
Suitable accessories
The Manchester Terrier makes no special demands on its living space. They can easily be kept in an apartment, but are also happy in a house with a garden. These robust dogs can be kept both in the city and in the countryside. With good training, these four-legged friends can be taken anywhere and are also uncomplicated when traveling.
As these dogs are considered to be particularly playful, you should take this characteristic as an opportunity to purchase sufficient dog toys. Ball and fetch games are particularly popular with this breed. Games of skill are also a good way to challenge them mentally. Due to their intelligence, pure exercise is not enough.
The dog should also have its own place to retreat to. It can rest there after an eventful day and recharge its batteries. Dog beds or baskets in a quiet corner of the house are particularly suitable.
Your dog will also need the following accessories: collar or harness with lead, dog basket or dog mat as a retreat, water and food bowl, tick tweezers, claw clippers, mild dog shampoo, brush and comb, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, transport box for transportation in the car and a first aid kit. It is best to ask your vet what belongs in the first aid kit.
Origin & History
The history of the Manchester Terrier goes back a long way. The Black and Tan Terriers are considered to be the direct ancestors of today's dog breeds. These terriers are said to have lived as early as the 15th century. These classic terriers were widespread in England until the 19th century. Then they died out. As the Black and Tan Terriers were already good hunters, this characteristic is also in the blood of today's Manchester Terrier.
The dog breed known today was created through multiple crosses with smaller dog breeds. For example with greyhounds. This is also clearly recognizable in the appearance of the Manchester Terrier. The Manchester Terrier is smaller, more agile and faster than its ancestors. The proud gait of the sighthounds can also be seen in the agile terriers.
The four-legged friends are named after the city of Manchester of the same name. The first specimens were selectively bred there. The breed was officially recognized in 1954. Nevertheless, the animals are still a rather unknown breed today. To this day, there is not much interest in Manchester Terriers. As a result, comparatively few puppies are born each year. However, the breed deserves much more attention due to its great and exciting character.
