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Manchester Terrier
Complete Breed Guide

"I can outwit and outrun just about anyone!"

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Reviewed by
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Breed experts since 2003
Last updated: May 2026
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Manchester Terrier breed photo

Quick Facts About Manchester Terriers

terrier
Breed Group:
Terrier
Weight
Adult Weight:
12–22 lbs
Height
Adult Height:
15–16"
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic:
No
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Overview

Manchester Terriers are high-energy, protective pups. These intelligent dogs love to outsmart their owners, so be prepared for your Manchester to show off and make you laugh every day. They have a strong prey drive and can be stubborn, but their caring nature comes out when their love is reciprocated.

Manchester Terriers are perfect dogs for anyone who loves to be active. These smart pups carry a packing punch of endless energy. They can be a handful at times, but having such a gentle and trustworthy friend makes it all worth it. Manchester Terriers are keen watchdogs, but when they aren't on high alert, they prefer to chase animals in the backyard and play the day away. These pups love to be free, so if you can balance letting them loose with keeping them under control, they’ll be loving, trusting companions for life.

Temperament and Behavior

Manchester Terriers are known for their high energy, intelligence, and wit. Their curiosity can sometimes get them into trouble, but they’re quick learners and respond well to training. Manchester Terriers love to show off and outsmart you any chance you get, so be sure their cunning nature doesn’t get the best of you. They love keeping an eye on their families and will bark the second something seems suspicious, so their wit and intuition can come in handy if you put them on watchdog duty.

Coat & Grooming

Manchester Terriers have sleek coats of black fur that often get recognition at dog shows and competitions. Their fur sheds a bit, but they’re easy to groom because the hair is so short. A Manchester needs a bath every few months, but most of the time, you’ll find it to be a clean and odorless breed.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

In typical terrier fashion, Manchester Terriers are kind and gentle with children but are known to be rough with dogs. They can live with other household pets, but they love to dominate and will need training and socialization to get along. The Manchester’s size and adaptable personality makes them a good fit for apartments or homes, but they prefer to be indoors and around people most of the time.

Exercise & Activity

Manchester Terriers need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks aren’t enough to wear them out. They need to run and play for long periods of time, especially if there’s room to dig or track small critters. Make sure to keep your Manchester in a secure, fenced area, as they're likely to run off as soon as they see an animal to chase.

Characteristics at-a-glance

Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.

Affection
Playfulness
Trainability
Intelligence
Exercise Needs
Grooming
Good w/ Kids
Good w/ Dogs
Good w/ Cats
Watchdog
Barking Level
Space Needs
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Manchester Terrier FAQs

Common questions about the Manchester Terrier breed, answered by our editorial team.

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