Manchester Terrier (Toy) breed guide

Intelligent, agile and spirited, the Toy likes to think through every situation and enjoys pleasing its people. Positive, reward-based methods train it well and harsh corrections do not.

Lots of effusive praise keeps its sessions fun.

Toy Manchester Terriers live 15 to 17 years. AKC says breeders around the globe are working on a genetic test for juvenile cardiomyopathy, a deadly disease that can affect the breed and several others and give the same anesthesia caution as for Greyhounds.

Like many small dogs, the Toy may have loose knees or patellar luxation. AKC also mentions breast cancer and a few other conditions.

The Toy is an easily maintained wash-and-wear dog: an occasional bath with a dog shampoo and a weekly wipe with a damp towel or hound glove for shine. Toenails need trimming every couple of weeks.

Active, swift and athletic, it needs a couple of good walks daily. It enjoys relaxing on the sofa but is equally eager to go outside and chase tennis balls or play vigorously.

Mill workers in mid-1800s Manchester wanted one dog for both rabbit hunting with small hounds and rat killing, so breeders crossed the Black and Tan Terrier ratter with Whippets and produced a distinct Manchester type.

The breed reached its peak of popularity in the Victorian Era and the Toy version was bred down from the Standard Manchester Terrier.