Manchester Terriers – A Delightful Breed
Manchester terriers come in two sizes, as recognized by the American Kennel Club, the Standard size, which weighs between 12 and 22 pounds, and the Toy which weighs under 12 pounds. Manchester terriers, resembling small Dobermans, have sleek-looking black and tan short hairs, with a finely developed and rather sharp muzzle, and pointed upright ears.
Terriers in general can sometimes pose difficulties as pets as they tend to be strong-willed, not always well mannered, and not usually good with children. Manchester terriers are in general better mannered and more easily trained than most other terriers, although they don’t always tolerate small children well. These dogs are not terribly aggressive, but will stand their ground and do not always act favorably towards roughhousing or the rough treatment smaller children are apt to innocently subject them to.
If It Moves It Must Be Caught – Manchester terriers must be kept in a fenced-in yard and kept on a leash when outside the yard. They are curious creatures, and if not on a leash will tend to go their own way, exhibiting a strong selective hearing mannerism if you try to call them back. They will chase anything smaller than themselves that moves, as they were bred as rat hunters, a skill the still excel in. Given the chance, they will go after rats, mice, rabbits, your neighbor’s cat, perhaps your own cat, and even will chase after low-flying birds. If you have a cat in the house, it’s best to socialize the Manchester with it while the dog is still very young, though if the cat runs, the dog is apt to give chase. These terriers usually get along well with other dogs, and are generally not aggressive towards them, but will not hesitate to stand their ground or fight should they feel the need. Ironically, the Manchester terrier often does not get along with another Manchester terrier of the same sex.
Athletic, And Potentially Noisy – Manchester terriers move with a certain grace and elegance, and are capable of moving very swiftly when they feel the need to or simply feel so inclined. They are a very athletic breed and owners need to set aside time every day to make certain they get plenty of exercise. Leaving them alone in the yard while away is not a good idea, especially if you have close neighbors, as when left alone they often bark, and their bark is high pitched and not always pleasant to the ear, especially when the barking is consistent.
The Great Escape Artist – If you do leave a Manchester terrier in the yard alone of any length of time, a low fence will not keep it in. Though not large dogs, these terriers are excellent at jumping, and if they think they have a reasonable shot at getting over a fence they won’t hesitate to try. Even a Toy Manchester’s jumping ability may surprise you. If they can’t get over a fence they’ll probably try to go under it, as they are as proficient at digging as they are at jumping. Manchester terriers aren’t trying to escape and get away from you. It’s just in the nature of the dog wanting to experience what’s on the other side of the fence, no matter what it is, and there are things to chase out there.
Do You Pass The Test? – If you don’t live in an apartment, have ample time to spend with your dog, are willing to spend a few dollars on obedience lessons (highly recommended), don’t have small children, a cat, or a rabbit, and want a loyal, affectionate companion who doubles as a great watchdog, the Manchester terrier may be just the right choice for you.
Related Resources: