The Manchester Terrier was created in the British town of Manchester. It is a descendent of the ratting terriers, dogs that were trained to hunt down and destroy the host of vermin inflicting the country. It is a cross between the British Black and Tan Terrier that were also noted as fight dogs. When the rat(fight)-pit was outlawed these dogs were headed for extinction, but a man by the name of Hadley from Manchester revived, and continued to build the breed.

The Manchester Terrier fares best as an indoor house pet, making an excellent companion for the elderly or singles, as well as making a good family dog, blending nicely with children. It has a high overall intelligence rating, and is excellent at problem solving and learning and obeying commands. It is a smart dog that is alert, and tenacious when necessary.

The Manchester Terrier has a coat of smooth, short fur that sheds little and is easily maintained. Its primary colorings are black and tan. This long lived dog with its small statur , but larger than life character grows to a height of 12 inches (Standard), 9 inches (Toy) and weights up to 16 pounds (Standard), 12 pounds (Toy).