Manchester Terrier

Originating in Manchester, England, experts believe that the Manchester Terrier is among the oldest terrier breeds dating as far back as the 16th century. It was bred to chase and kill rats, rabbits and other vermin. The Manchester Terrier was originally a cross from both the Whippet and the Black and Tan Terrier famous for their rat-killing skills. It was John Hulme, a breed enthusiast, who developed the breed in the 1800s.

When the sport of rat killing was banned, the Manchester Terrier still proved to be useful in rat-infested inns. They would be set loose in dining halls to catch rats when the inn closes. They helped to preserve a bit of sanitation by getting rid of the health menace during that period.

In the mid-800s, more of the Manchester Terriers were bred in the Manchester District of England, hence the name was bestowed upon the breed. However, people began to want a smaller version of the terrier dogs, so they started crossing them with Chihuahuas to reduce their size. Today, Manchester Terriers come in two sizes: Toy and Standard.

In 1937, the British Manchester Terrier Club was established for which the members are made up of people who saved the breed from extinction from the World War II.

The Manchester Terrier comes in two sizes: the Toy Manchester Terrier weighs less than 12 pounds, while the Standard Manchester Terrier weighs 12 to 22 pounds. The breed is slightly longer than it is tall, standing 38 to 41 centimetres at the withers. This dog breed has compact and muscular forms covered in sleek, smooth, black and tan (or mahogany) short-coat.

The Manchester Terriers resembles a miniature Doberman Pinscher with the muzzle tapering to the nose, and small, almond-shaped eyes that are dark in colour. It also has small V-shaped ears that hang close to its heads, slightly long neck and arched back, completing its noble look.

Grooming-wise, the Manchester Terrier is low maintenance. Thanks to its smooth, short and glossy coat that is naturally clean. Although its coat has a doggie odour, it’s easily remedied by a simple bath every three months with a mild shampoo. Make sure to regularly brush its sleek coat and use coat conditioner to maintain its sheen.

The rest is basic grooming. Avoid gum diseases and bad odour by brushing the Manchester Terrier's teeth twice or thrice a week. Clean its ears with a soft cotton moist with a vet-approved solution to keep ear infections at bay. Trim its nails when they become long to prevent painful or uncomfortable overgrowth and cracking.

Energetic and spirited by nature, the Manchester Terrier is a lively terrier dog. It is playful and loves nothing more than play fetch with its family. Although this dog completely loves and adores its family, it is also independent. However, contrary to having an independent streak, the Manchester Terrier tends to have separation issues, so it is best suited for families where one member stays at home most of the time.

Manchester Terriers, despite their size, make excellent watchdogs. They will bark to alert owners when someone is about. They are also great with children, provided they are early socialised. Still, it is crucial to make sure any interaction is well-supervised by an adult. Like most terriers, the Manchester Terrier will not think twice of chasing small animals, given its history of killing rats and chasing rabbits so care should be taken around small household pets.

• Senior and less active: up to 400 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 450 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 500 calories daily

Thrilled to have a dog? Dogs are such a joy to have, like bringing home a new family member you can shower love and affection and vice versa. However, do you think you have the finances to buy a Manchester Terrier puppy, much less raise it for at least 14 years? If you're not too sure about how much it'll cost to buy and raise, here is a summary of pet-related expenses:

• A Manchester puppy will cost around £700 or more for a well-bred puppy.
• Next, find an affordable pet insurance, which will likely set you back £20 to £40 a month.
• Dog food, especially high-quality commercial food, costs about £20 to £30 a month.
• Veterinary care, which includes check-ups and basic procedures such as neutering, vaccinations and boosters will cost up to £800 per year.
• Let's not forget the dog supplies, which cost around £200, albeit a one-off expense.