Breed Focus: Manchester Terrier

A small but mighty breed! (Image Source)

The Manchester terrier is not a breed we see frequently. Their small size can make them adaptable to many living situations. As we have discussed before, many terriers have big personalities! This breed was originally bred to hunt rats and mice, so some may require a little more exercise and activity than others. Their prey drive may still be quite high and require some training to keep them in check. They will also serve their household as an excellent watch dog and likely alert you to any newcomers!

 

They are typically on alert and will notify you if anything seems amiss! (Image Source)

With a short hair coat, the Manchester terrier, requires very little in the way of grooming. They also tend to be very healthy.  As with many of the smaller and toy breeds they can have issues with luxating patellas. This is when the knee cap is not fully stable in the joint and can wiggle in and out of place. They also seem prone to hypothyroidism which is a condition that can lead to weight gain, decrease energy and thinning of the hair. They can also have issues with their eyes including glaucoma (an increase in pressure in the eye) and cataracts. While some of these conditions can be screened for, not all can be identified in puppies. It is best to work with a reputable breeder to decrease the risk of these conditions in your puppy.

 

No matter if they are a puppy or full grown they are still pretty cute! (Image Source)

Overall the Manchester terrier is a small dog that has a personality that will allow it to adapt to many different living situations. If you are willing to have a little excitement in your life and give a little bit of time for training this could be a great fit for you! For more information on this breed you can visit the following websites here and here.