The Manchester Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in England and was primarily used for rat baiting. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes two varieties, the Standard and Toy, while the smaller variety is recognized by The Kennel Club (KC) as a separate breed, the English Toy Terrier.

Manchester Terriers are small dogs with compact and muscular bodies. The Standard is 15-16 inches tall and weighs in at 12-22 pounds and the Toy stands at 10-12 inches and weighs on average 6-8 pounds, not exceeding 12. The ears on the Standard can be either erect, button ears, or in countries where it is still allowed, cropped; for the Toy only naturally erect ears are acceptable. They have a long tail that begins thicker at the base and tapers to a point at the end. Manchester Terriers have a smooth and short coat; their coloring is always black and tan.


The Manchester Terrier was named after the city of Manchester in north-west England, which was the main area for their development. However, similar dogs were seen throughout the country. This area was a noted center for two “poor men’s sports,” rat baiting and rabbit coursing. John Hulme desired a dog that could be used for both sports and mated a Whippet bitch to a celebrated rat-killing dog that was related to the now extinct Black and Tan Terrier. The offspring of this mating were superb ratters and rabbiters, highly desirable and became the basis of the breeding stock we know today. The breed suffered a major setback when rat baiting became outlawed in 1835 along with other animal baiting and even further decline when the cropping of ears was forbidden in 1898. It took several years before breeders were able to create an appealing natural ear and today the Manchester Terrier still has relatively small numbers, particularly the Toy variety. In the United Kingdom both are listed as vulnerable native breeds.


Manchester Terriers are faithful dogs that bond well with their owners. They get along best with older children and other dogs, provided they have been properly socialized. Due to their background they are not recommended for homes with non-canine pets. This breed is highly active and does best with a family that can meet that lifestyle. They are highly intelligent, but some individuals can be difficult to train. Manchester Terriers excel at dog sports such as agility and obedience trials.

The average lifespan for a Manchester Terrier is 13-14 years. They are prone to glaucoma and Bon Willebrand’s disease.

This breed can adapt to apartment life provided they are regularly exercised. They should not be let off leash unless they are in a secure area as they are prone to chase.

The short coat of a Manchester Terrier requires very little care. They are average shedders.