Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dog a "mini-Dobe"?
No, Manchester Terriers are neither miniature versions of the Doberman Pinscher nor Miniature Pinschers. In fact, if anything, Doberman Pinschers are larger versions of the Manchester Terrier! Manchester Terriers are cited as being one of the dogs Louis Doberman used when he created the Doberman Pinscher in the late-19th century. The Manchester Terrier is a very old breed that has been used as the foundation for creation of a number of other breeds as well.
This image shows the three possible ears types for the Standard Manchester TerrierWhat is the difference between a Standard Manchester and a Toy Manchester?
In Canada and the United States, Manchester Terriers come in two varieties: Standard and Toy. According to the Canadian Kennel Club's breed standards, the only differences between the two varieties are size and ear type. The Standard Manchester Terrier should weigh between 12 and 22 pounds while the Toy should weigh less than 12 pounds. And while the Toy Manchester Terrier has only one acceptable ear type (naturally erect), three ear types are acceptable for the Standard Manchester Terrier (cropped, button, and naturally erect).
Do they shed?
Yes, they do shed, though not excessively. Most Manchester Terriers only "blow coat" twice a year (spring and fall). With proper grooming, shedding is usually not a problem.
How much grooming do they require?
Manchester Terriers are a relatively low-maintenance breed. They should be brushed regularly (once a week) with a rubber curry or bristle brush. This regular brushing helps get rid of dead hair, keep the dog clean, and maintain the coat's natural glossy shine. In addition, their toenails must be clipped regularly. Be forewarned! As a general rule, Manchesters do not like to have their toenails clipped. Grinding nailes rather than clipping them can cut down some of the stress involved in this process.
What makes a better pet, a male or a female?
The sex differences in the Manchester Terrier seem to be less pronounced than in other breeds. Both males and females make excellent pets. There are also no noticeable sex differences with regards to housebreaking.
Are Manchester Terriers easy to housebreak?
Manchester Terriers are relatively easy to housebreak. As with any breed the key to housebreaking is consistency and reward. Make sure your dog is on a consistent schedule (when they eat, when the sleep, etc.), then, if you pay attention, you will know approximately what time each day your dog will need to "go". Be sure to take them to the same spot each time and then reward them for "going" in that spot.
Do they bark excessively? Are they yappy?
Manchester Terriers do bark. For many owners, this is viewed as a positive as they warn of potential dangers. Most Manchester Terriers do not bark excessively, however training is key to ensuring that barking does not become a problem. With most Manchester Terriers barking can be curbed early on or avoided entirely by taking a few preventative steps. The most important step is to socialize your puppy properly. Make sure your Manchester Terrier is exposed to a wide variety of people, animals and noises at a young age. It is especially important to expose your Manchester Terrier to a variety of people visiting your home and a variety of noises within the home. While your Manchester is still a puppy, teach them that these things are all acceptable and not to be barked at. If barking problems begin to develop the problem can usually be dealt with either with alternate training methods, a bark collar, or (as a last resort) a surgical de-barking procedure. Are they outdoor dogs?
Although Manchester Terriers are a hearty breed, they should not be expected to live outdoors. Their lack of coat makes them sensitive to the cold in the winter and their black colouring makes them sensitive to overheating in the summer. This is not to suggest that MTs do not enjoy the outdoors, simply that they should not be expected to live outdoors year round. Manchester Terriers do best when living indoors with their family while being allowed to exercise and play outside.
What is their activity level? Are they hyper?
Manchester Terriers are not an overly active dog indoors. Most MTs match their activity level to their owners activity level. A single Manchester will usually not be overly active indoors, however, multiple dogs living in the same household will often play together. Outdoors MTs have an abundant amount of energy. In fact, they make a great running companion as they have both speed and endurance. Standard Manchester Terriers require a bit more exercise than Toy Manchester Terriers do, usually varying between 30 minutes and 1 hour per day. Manchester Terriers enjoy a variety of activities from playing with other dogs at the park, to playing ball, to running agility courses.
Do they get along with other dogs? Do they get along with other pets?
Manchester Terriers get along well with other dogs. They also can get along with cats, provided they were raised with them from a young age. Because MTs were designed to hunt small rodents and vermin, however, it is inadvisable to ask them to live with rabbits, rats, mice or other rodent pets. Their terrier instinct is generally too strong to allow successful co-habitation with pets of this sort.
How are they with children?
Most Manchester Terriers get along well with children, however some breeders prefer to sell their puppies to families with older children. If you want your dog to interact successfully with children it is important for you to expose your MT to a variety of children at an early age. It is also important that you teach the children to respect the dog and to treat it properly. You should never leave any dog with a child unattended. Even the most trustworthy dog will often try things with a child they would never try with an adult.
Do Manchester Terriers come in any other colors?
The only acceptable colour for a Manchester Terrier is black and tan. In the mid-1800s there was some interest in different color variations including whites, blues and reds and these color variants began appearing at competitions. The English White, in particular, often displayed a number of health problems. These colour variants are no longer bred for, are no longer acceptable, and are considered a serious fault.
