The Manchester Terrier is a breed originally bred for hunting rats. It is distinguished by its black coat combined with tan spots distributed in a characteristic way. In addition, it stands out for its lively, cheerful and perspicacious character.
General details
The breed has a medium size and a robust structure. Its standard size ranges between 38 and 41 centimeters in height and its weight is between 5 and 10 kilograms. It stands out for its remarkable longevity, with a life expectancy that usually reaches 15 to 17 years. They belong to Group 3 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups Terriers.
Breed history in brief
The Manchester Terrier is a breed originating in Manchester, England. It was bred as a skilled rat catcher and gained popularity in the mid-19th century as a ratter and show dog. The breed's name reflects its association with the city of Manchester and its reputation as an excellent vermin control dog. The development of the Manchester Terrier consisted of crossing the Black and Tan Terrier with Whippets to create a distinctive type of Terrier. Previously registered as separate breeds, the standard Manchester and the Manchester toy eventually merged into a single breed known as the Manchester Terrier. Today, the breed is recognized in two varieties: Toy and Standard.
Breed characteristics
The Manchester Terrier is a compact and elegant breed, with a robust and substantial build. It has a short body with a slightly arched back and rounded chest. The head is characterized by a long, flat, narrow skull, giving it a wedge-shaped appearance. The eyes are relatively small, almond-shaped and dark in color. The ears are small, "V" shaped and fall close to the head, while the tail is short and tapering towards the tip.
The coat is compact, smooth, short and harsh in texture. Its predominant color is glossy black, with mahogany tan spots distributed in a characteristic manner. These tan patches are found on the head, muzzle, cheeks, above the eyes, lower jaw, throat, limbs, tail and around the anus. On the limbs, the tan color extends from the knee down, with black striations on the toes and a distinctive black spot on the foot. The black and tan should be clearly defined, without blending.
The Manchester Terrier is a lively and energetic breed of dog, with a cheerful attitude and a great capacity for alertness. It is noted for its keen intelligence, demonstrating a sharp and astute mind in all its actions. In addition, it is a loyal dog that shows a deep attachment and devotion to its owners.
Common health problems
The Manchester Terrier, with optimal care and attention, can live a long healthy life, although it is predisposed to certain health problems. Among the most common diseases or disorders are hydrocephalus, Legg-Perthes disease, lens luxation, baldness and von Willebrand's disease.
In addition to the aforementioned conditions, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac and ocular screening examination, as well as a series of tests to assess the following diseases: autoimmune thyroiditis, patellar luxation, congenital deafness, juvenile dilated cardiomyopathy and xanthinuria.
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