The Manchester Terrier is a dog of contradictions: he looks like a miniature Doberman, but he is much older; he is a terrier, but he has the curves of a sighthound; he is a fierce ratter, but he loves the comfort of a soft pillow.

He is a sleek, black-and-tan athlete with a “finish” that few breeds can match. Every line of his body suggests speed and agility. He is spirited, intelligent, and famously observant—nothing escapes his notice. Whether you choose the Standard variety or the Toy variety, you are getting a dog with a big personality in a tailored suit.

History and Origin: The Rat Catcher

The Manchester Terrier was developed in Manchester, England, the heart of the Industrial Revolution over 150 years ago. The city’s textile mills and warehouses were overrun with rats, and the workers needed a dog that could kill them quickly and efficiently.

The Recipe for Speed

To create the ultimate ratter, breeders (specifically a man named John Hulme) crossed the old Black and Tan Terrier (a tough, gritty dog) with the Whippet (a fast, sleek sighthound). The result was a game-changing dog: he had the fire and tenacity of the terrier but the speed and roached back of the Whippet. He was not only a champion ratter but also excelled at “rabbit coursing,” a popular sport of the time. He was known as the “Gentleman’s Terrier.”

Two Varieties, One Breed

Until 1959, the Standard and Toy Manchesters were registered as separate breeds. Today, they are considered one breed with two varieties, separated only by weight.

Physical Characteristics: Sleek and Racy

The Manchester Terrier is the definition of “streamlined.” He should look fit, with no excess fat. His coat is so short and tight that you can see the muscles rippling underneath.

• Standard Variety: 12–22 pounds (5.5-10 kg).
• Toy Variety: Under 12 pounds (5.5 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Coat: Short, dense, and glossy. It feels like satin.
• Color: Always jet black with rich mahogany tan markings.
• The Markings: The markings are very specific. He has “thumbprints” (black patches) on his front legs, “kiss marks” (tan spots) on his cheeks, and “pips” (tan eyebrows) above his eyes.
• Ears:
  • Standard: Can have naturally erect ears, button ears (folded over), or cropped ears (standing straight up).
  • Toy: Must have naturally erect ears. Cropping is not allowed in the Toy variety.

Temperament and Personality

The Manchester is often described as “cat-like in his cleanliness and independence.”

The Observer

He is a watcher. He sits on the back of the sofa and surveys his domain. He notices if you move a chair or if a stranger walks by the house. He is an excellent watchdog who will bark to alert you, but he is not a yapper.

The One-Person Dog

He tends to bond intensely with one person. He is affectionate and loyal to his “chosen one,” often ignoring others in the room. He is a “Velcro dog” who wants to be touching you. If you leave the room, he follows.

The Spirited Athlete

He is fast. In the backyard, he moves like a streak of lightning. He loves to chase balls and play tug, but he also has an “off switch” and loves to curl up under a blanket (he loves heat).

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Quality over Quantity

He is an active dog, but his exercise needs are manageable.

• Daily: A few brisk walks and a game of fetch are sufficient.
• Mental: He is incredibly smart (and sometimes manipulative). He needs puzzle toys and trick training to keep his mind busy.
• The Chase: Because of his Whippet ancestry, he has a high prey drive. Squirrels, rabbits, and neighborhood cats are fair game. He should be kept on a leash in unfenced areas.

Training: Respectful Leadership

• Intelligence: He learns very quickly but can be stubborn. He responds best to positive reinforcement.
• Harshness: He is a sensitive dog. Harsh corrections will make him defensive or shy.
• Socialization: Essential. Without it, he can be aloof or sharp with strangers.

Health and Lifespan

The Manchester Terrier is a very long-lived breed, often living 15 to 17 years.

• Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD): A genetic bleeding disorder (similar to hemophilia). DNA tests are available and imperative.
• Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps, especially in the Toy variety.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: A hip condition affecting small breeds.
• Eye Issues: Glaucoma and cataracts can occur.
• Heat Bumps: Some get heat rash if they stay in the sun too long.

Grooming and Care

This is a true “wash and wear” dog.

• Brushing: A wipe down with a damp cloth or a hound glove once a week is all he needs.
• Shedding: He sheds very little.
• Nails: Must be kept short.
• Cold Sensitivity: With zero body fat and a thin coat, he hates the cold. He needs a sweater in the winter. If it is raining, good luck getting him to go outside.

Is a Manchester Right for You?

The Manchester Terrier is a sleek, sophisticated companion for the right person.

Yes, if:

• You want a devoted, one-person dog. You want a best friend who adores you.
• You want a clean dog. He grooms himself like a cat and has no odor.
• You live in an apartment. He is quiet and compact.
• You don’t have rodents. Hamsters don’t stand a chance.

No, if:

• You want a dog who loves everyone. He is reserved with strangers.
• You want an off-leash dog. He will chase anything that moves.
• You leave the dog alone all day. He needs companionship.
• You have small children. He can be snappy if teased or handled roughly.

If you appreciate his wit, his speed, and his intense loyalty, the Manchester Terrier is a spirited gentleman who will keep your lap warm and your home free of vermin for many years.