manchester terrier-toy

The Toy Manchester Terrier is an off-shoot of the larger Manchester Terrier. The most obvious differences are size and ear set.

History:

The Toy Manchester Terrier, or English Toy Terrier, is a smaller version of the standard Manchester Terrier. It was developed around the early 1800s through selective breeding. The early Manchester Terriers were fairly diverse in size and it is thought that smaller dogs were crossed with Italian Greyhounds to maintain the racy appearance and help to set the small size.

Queen Victoria was said to have been fascinated by this tiny breed. The obsession of early breeders with miniaturization caused some problems with health in the breed. However, the early mistakes were recognized and the breed is now out of danger.

Physical characteristics:

The Toy Manchester Terrier is a slight and delicate breed. Height: 10 - 12 in (25 - 30 cm). Weight: 6 - 8 lb (3 - 4 kg). The main differences between the Manchester Terrier and the Toy Manchester Terrier (or English Toy Terrier) are size and ear carriage. The Toy has naturally erect or candle-flame ears, that are never cropped. The Toy Manchester Terrier also has a slightly different head shape from its larger cousin - it is wedge-shaped, rather than long. Its black coat with tan markings is short and thick.

Behavior:

The Toy Manchester Terrier is a great companion animal. It behaves as if it is a far larger dog in a small body. Like the standard Manchester Terrier, it is bold and tenacious and pursues its tasks with great enthusiasm. This dog responds well to a firm hand, and once it is settled into the house it becomes quite devoted to its owner. The Toy Manchester Terrier usually gets enough exercise running around the house, but it benefits from the stimulation of being taken out for walks.