While the original Manchester Terrier breed can claim its origins back to the 1500's, the Manchesters we know today reveals the cross breeding with the Whippet back in the 1800's. Their slightly arched backs, whipcord lean bodies and the distinct black and tan markings are both present in the standard varieties as well as the Toy Manchester Terrier varieties we know today. This effective breeding with the Whippet is the first sign of adaptability that the modern Manchester has displayed.
Environment
The Toy Manchester Terrier may be small but it is a mighty dog full of feistiness and exuberance for life. Because of its original origins as a ratter and hunter of rabbit and fox, the Manchester would do well in a country setting where there are plenty of animals to chase as well as room to run and be active. These dogs need to be physical as it is their true nature and left idle could cause all sorts of mischief.
Of course, the Toy Manchester Terrier can also thrive in a populated city or town setting as well. As long as the owner has provided a safe, fenced in yard with plenty of dog toys to keep him occupied while they are gone, the Manchester will thrive here too. Now, while they need to be able to be physically active everyday, they are not suited to stay outdoors all the time.
The Manchester adapts quite easily to any environment you place him in as long as he has his human family nearby to provide the love and support he needs. He makes a great watchdog but should not be kept outdoors because of this quality as he likes to bark at anything entering his domain from a stray cat to the meter man to a leaf blowing. Training is the best thing for the toy variety of Manchesters not really to reign in their energy so much but rather to help them adapt more quickly to whatever situation comes their way.
People
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a lovely companion to both the young and the old and therefore is quite an adaptable pet for a variety of people. Their tendency is to imprint themselves with a favored family member, although they will love everyone in the household. Because of this favoritism, the Manchester makes a great pet for seniors living alone who want animal companionship.
The toy variety enjoys children but will prefer older kids who are not innocently enthusiastic about petting and trying to pick them up, although with some behavioral training, they do learn to tolerate it. Basically, the Toy Manchester Terrier will adapt to almost anyone who understands their zest for life as well as their requirements for physicality and engagement. These dogs thrive on the love and attention of their owner and will do what they can to watch over them and protect them. Even older Toy Manchester Terriers have the ability to adapt to new families who adopt them from shelters, rescue groups or other places.
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