Manchester Terrier
Also known as Terrier de Manchester
Great Britain, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 38–41 cm
- Weight
- 7–10 kg
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 yrs
- Alert
- Athletic
- Intelligent
- Devoted
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is a sleek, short-coated terrier from England, developed in the industrial north to hunt rats and to take part in rabbit coursing. It is a lean, athletic dog with a black and tan coat, a wedge-shaped head and a graceful, arched outline. It comes in a standard size, with a smaller toy variety recognised in some countries.
Temperament
Quick, keen and intelligent, the Manchester Terrier is usually devoted to its family and watchful with strangers. It keeps a terrier's drive to chase small animals and can be stubborn, but responds well to consistent, positive training.
Exercise
Needs a good daily walk of around an hour plus play and a chance to run in a secure area. Its chasing instinct means a lead is wise near small animals and roads.
Grooming
The smooth, close coat is easy to look after with a weekly rub-down using a soft brush or cloth. It sheds lightly. Keep nails trimmed.
Care & wellbeing
A thin coat means it can feel the cold, so consider a jacket in winter. Brush teeth regularly and keep weight lean.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 8.5 kg adult- Water
- 340 ml–510 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 560 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Manchester Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in and around Manchester in northern England as a sleek, quick ratting terrier, also used in rabbit coursing. Crossing local terriers with sighthound types is generally credited for its elegant, racy outline. It is now kept mainly as a lively companion.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Von Willebrand disease
- Eye conditions
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for von Willebrand disease
- Eye tests
- Hip check
Not every Manchester Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 14–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Manchester Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Manchester Terrier get?
Adult Manchester Terriers typically stand about 38–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 7–10 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Manchester Terriers live?
Typically 14–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Manchester Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Manchester Terrier need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Manchester Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Manchester Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Manchester Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Manchester Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Manchester Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to von willebrand disease, eye conditions, legg-calve-perthes disease. Not every Manchester Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954