The Manchester Terrier comes in two varieties: Standard and Toy. They were developed in England during the 19th century as vermin hunters.
History: The Manchester Terrier’s nickname is the “rat terrier” since it was developed as a rat hunter in nineteenth century Manchester, England by a man named John Hulme. The Manchester Terrier was the result of crosses between the Black & Tan Terrier and the Whippet. The Manchester Terrier comes in two varieties: Standard and Toy. Initially, the AKC considered the toy and standard Manchester terriers as two separate breeds that were permitted to interbreed. In 1959, they were reclassified as different varieties for a single breed, which better explained the allowance of interbreeding.
Appearance: It is a small, short-coated dog with distinctive rich mahogany markings and a taper style tail. The head is long, narrow, tight skinned, and almost flat with a slight indentation up the forehead. The muzzle and skull are equal in length. The muzzle is well filled under the eyes with no visible cheek muscles. The small dark eyes are almond-shaped. The teeth should form a scissors bite. The V-shaped ears on the standard size are often cropped to stand erect. Unaltered ears are either button or pendant. The Manchester Terrier has a short, dense, glossy, smooth, and tight fitting coat. Only color allowed is jet black with mahogany tan markings on the legs and head. A small tan spot on the side of each cheek and over each eye is required.
Size: Height:  15-16 inches
Weight:  12-22 pounds
Temperament: The Manchester Terrier is a high-spirited, very intelligent, and cunning dog which is eager to learn. The Manchester terrier is devoted to its family, but shy around strangers. It should be introduced to children as a puppy. The breed is usually friendly with other dogs, but is not recommended around other small pets. This is a very high energy breed. Excellent watch- dogs, they will be aware of everything that goes on around your home and feel an intense need to “run and find out”. They will also bark to draw your attention to the burglar (or butterfly).
Health: The Manchester Terrier is prone to some genetic disorders. One of these is von Willebrand’s disease, a blood clotting disorder. Others include Legg-Calv?-Perthes syndrome, lens luxation, and hypothyroidism. Because they normally have little body fat, they can be sensitive to barbituate anesthetics.
Life expectancy: About 15 or more years.
Grroming: The Manchester terrier requires almost no grooming to its short coat, making it ideal for the elderly or busy families. Occasionally brush to remove dead hair or rub down with a towel to give the coat a shine. Bathe when necessary.
Puppy price: $500.00 – $1.500.00