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 A descendant of Britain's Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester was bred as a "ratting machine." Its prime purpose was to keep the farm rabbit and rat population under control.
The breed was respected for its prowess in the rat pit and one dog, 'Billy,' is reported to have dispatched 100 rats to that great cheese tray in the sky in just six minutes and 13 seconds.
Two events almost led to the breed's disappearance. The first was the banning of blood sports and the second was the banning of ear cropping. The Manchester's ears, cropped to prevent them from suffering rat bites, took on an ungainly appearance in their natural state.
Next, a precise breed standard was adopted that made perfect specimens difficult to breed and public favour moved on to other terriers. A foremost breeder was Samuel Handley of Manchester, Lancashire, and because of his efforts to stabilize breed type, the breed name was changed from Black and Tan to the Manchester Terrier.
The Manchester is keenly observant, devoted but discerning in his friendships. A gentle family member and a good watchdog, he may still be able to tackle any rat unlucky enough to cross his path.
A powerful and active dog, the Manchester requires daily exercise. |
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