History of the Manchester Terrier
History:
Appearing in the form we know today in the late 1800s the longevity of this breed should be recognized. Writings referring to an earlier version of the breed (the English Black and Tan Terrier) date back almost 400 years, making the Manchester one of the oldest breeds of terrier currently recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club.
Originally bred as a "ratting machine" Manchester's made frequent and highly
acclaimed appearances in the rat pits. One Manchester named Billy is still
lauded for his accomplishments, having in 1827 killed 100 rats in only 12
minutes! It was during the mid-1900s that smaller versions of the Black and Tan
began to appear due to a trend toward miniaturization. Not to be outdone at
least one of these smaller versions, a five pounder appropriately named "Tiny,"
is known to have killed 100 rats in the astonishing time of 5 1/2 minutes!
During the late 19th century the popularity of the breed fell with the outlawing of blood sports and the banning of ear cropping. It was at this point that several devoted breeders began to reform the breed. By using a Whippet cross they were able to transform the breed from the rough coated, rugged terrier of the ratters to the sleek, elegant, gentleman's companion we now know. The Manchester now appears as two varieties in North America, distinguished primarily by weight: Toys up to, but not exceeding 12 lb., and Standards 12-22 lb.
Today the Manchester is at its best cuddled up on a lap or laying in the sun, but is equally at home in more athletic situations. The versatility of the breed knows no bounds as their mischeviousness and overall gaminess find new ways to express themselves. Manchester's are constantly invading new territory in the dog world as they make their mark in conformation and obedience rings as well as flyball and agility trials across the country. Several have also made in-roads as Therapy dogs.
Temperament:
The Manchester is best described as a loyal,affectionate and devoted companion.
Neither shy nor aggressive, the Manchester is observant, alert and discerning
with strangers yet generally friendly with other breeds. Most Manchesters are
equally as comfortable spending a day lounging in bed (preferrably under the
covers) as they are in more athletic pursuits, making them an ideal house pet.
Generally Manchesters are not well-suited to kennel life nor are they physically
prepared for extended periods outdoors in inclement weather. More
information on the breed's temperament traits can be found on the
FAQ
page
.
Manchester Terrier
Ancestry
Founders and Tail Lines
Courtesy of Fwaggle Toy Manchesters
Though the use of tail lines as a workable theory on which to base breeding decisions is both limited and dated, investigating the theory does give rise to interesting ideas and historical information. Following tail lines gives us a glimpse back at the individuals whose genetic make-up -- whose mere existence -- have profoundly affected the breed we work to mold and preserve today. While the tail line theory is still held as creditable in some circles (included as a feature in many pedigree programs and even mentioned in Patricia Craig Trotter's book "Born To Win, Breed to Succeed"), knowledge of genetics and heredity generally discredits its usefulness as a breeding model to most modern breeders. That said, the division of Manchester variety lines (Toy and Standard) along male tail lines does provide a compelling argument for the theory. Regardless of your view, studying the theory and the breed's foundation dogs gives us the opportunity to better understand both the history of the breed and the state of diversity in the gene pool.
Factors Affecting Manchester Tail Lines
Manchester Terrier Breed Founders
