Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 2nd February 2026
Toy Manchester Terrier
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 2nd February 2026
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a miniature version of the Manchester terrier, characterized by a small, compact body stature, sharp erect ears, smooth, shiny coat, an arched topline, short legs as well as a thick tail, tapered to a point. A relatively new breed, The Toy Manchester terrier also appears to be a high-spirited, energetic breed as its Manchester parent.
Toy Manchester Terrier Pictures
Quick Information
| Nickname | Gentleman’s Terrier |
| Coat | Short, smooth, shiny |
| Color | Black and Tan |
| Type | Purebred |
| Group | Companion dogs, Terriers, Toy dogs |
| Size | Small |
| Lifespan/ Life Expectancy | 14-16 years |
| Height | 10 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 8 pounds |
| Litter size | 3 to 6 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Sensitive, playful, gentle, but aggressive in terms of hunting instinct |
| Good with children | Preferably older kids |
| Climate compatibility | Prefers warmer climates |
| Barking | High |
| Shedding (Does it shed) | Moderate |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | AKC, CKC, UKC |
| Country | U.S.A |
Toy Manchester Terrier Video
Other Similar Breeds
History
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a breed with a great hunting lineage since its parent, the Manchester Terrier (Old Black and Tan Terrier-Whippet cross) had been developed with the purpose of chasing rats since they were one of the root causes of several health hazards in the 19th century England. Moreover, rat chasing and killing had also become a popular sport in England during that time.
However, as the requirement for small-sized breeds became higher, several breeders started crossing their Manchester Terrier smaller breeds like Chihuahua. However, the dogs produced from this crossbreeding had several physical deformities like apple heads, thin coats, and poppy eyes.
When inbreeding was implemented, the resultant dogs were small but extremely delicate as well as sickly. In order to combat this problem, toy-sized breeds evolved, initially known by the name of Toy Black and Tan Terrier and later as the Toy Manchester Terrier. The American Toy Manchester Terrier Club developed during the 1930s, with this breed attaining recognition by the AKC in the year 1938. However, the club stopped existing eventually as this breed began to decline by the 50s. The AKC, therefore in 1958 included it as a size variation of the Manchester Terrier rather than a different breed altogether. The club too underwent a name change, referred to as the American Manchester Terrier Club.
Temperament and Personality
A replica of the Manchester Terrier, this breed would mostly inherit all of its characteristics and behavioral traits. It is gentle, soft-tempered and courteous, bonding intimately with its master. Though it may not be snappy and rude like most other Terriers, it has a reserved attitude towards strangers or an unknown face, qualities that apparently make it an efficient watchdog.
They get along well with dogs of the family if socialized, however, these breeds would not be tolerant enough of strange dogs evading their territory. Though they may not be harsh towards children, kids should be kept away from them or parents should supervise their interactions. In fact, though play they might end up hurting the Toy Manchester Terrier unintentionally, who in a bid to protect itself might be defensive towards them. Since they have an inherent chasing instinct, smaller pets should be kept away from their reach to avoid any unpleasant occurrences.
Care
Exercise
Being Terriers these small-sized dogs require adequate exercise to channelize their energy properly. However, their energy needs are lesser than the Manchester Terrier, sufficing with a brisk walk daily alongside sufficient playtime in a fenced yard or garden. These apartment dogs are not tolerant to excessive heat and cold. Hence they should not be kept out in such extreme temperatures.
Grooming
Needing occasional grooming like the Manchester Terrier, an occasional brushing would be enough for them. Other hygiene measures include cleaning their ears and eyes on a regular basis to keep infections at bay as well as trimming their nails.
Health Problems
Though a healthy breed, some of the health problems seen in them include deafness, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes disease, progressive retinal atrophy and Von Willebrand’s Disease (a blood disorder).
Training
Though loyal and intelligent, this breed needs a firm and tactful trainer who would intelligently handle them.
- To help them manage their territorial nature and wariness towards strangers, socialize your Toy Manchester Terrier puppies and acquaint them with people and incidents of various kinds so that they may be able to distinguish the good from the bad.
- Keeping their chasing instinct in mind leash training since the very beginning is of utmost importance.
Feeding
1/4th to ½ cup dry dog food on a regular basis would be a good option for them.
Interesting Facts
- Thee very small Manchester Terriers were nicknamed as the “Groom’s Pocket Piece” as they would comfortably sit on the leather pouches suspended from the belt of the rider.
FAQ’s
