If you’re in need of a pet that’s small, smart and sure of itself, then the Chihuahua might be for you. Introducing the Toy Manchester Terrier – a little powerhouse with lots of attitude. As a result of being bred from the Standard Manchester Terrier, this small and elegant breed fits the need for a pet that is easy to keep in an apartment.
The Toy Manchester Terrier’s slender build, bright expression and low-fuss fur should earn this breed more attention as one of the leading small dogs for families and singles in cities, as well as for pet owners with allergies.
Manchester Terrier ( Toy ) Breed Overview
- Height: Up to 12 inches
- Weight: Not exceeding 12 pounds
- Lifespan: 14 -16 years
- Group: Toy Group (AKC)
- Origin: England
- Coat Type: Short, sleek, and glossy
- Temperament: Alert, intelligent, devoted
History and Origin
The Toy Manchester Terrier has the same roots as the Standard Manchester Terrier, who both come from the Black and Tan Terrier and Whippet cross in 19th-century England. People in Victorian society were so drawn to small dogs that the Toy variety of terriers was created.
People chose to breed the smallest Manchester Terriers to create a version called the Toy which is like the standard size in athletic ability, looks and rat-chasing skills, but much smaller. The AKC included it as a unique type and the breed is still considered rare and loved among North Americans.
Appearance
The Toy Manchester Terrier is best described as a miniature Doberman with a terrier attitude – though it predates the Doberman by several decades.
Key Physical Features:
- Coat: Short, tight, and shiny, requiring minimal grooming
- Color: Always jet black with rich mahogany tan markings
- Ears: Naturally erect, enhancing their alert appearance
- Build: Slim and graceful with long legs for their size
- Eyes: Small, almond-shaped, and very expressive
This dog turns heads with its sleek silhouette and dignified demeanor, making it one of the more elegant and cute small dog breeds available today.
Temperament and Personality
A Toy Manchester Terrier may be tiny, but you can rely on them to be confident, full of energy and as loyal as a big dog. While most terriers tend to be lively, these are more reserved, don’t yap as much and are simpler to train.
Typical Traits:
- Affectionate with family and forms deep bonds
- Alert and makes a great watchdog without being overly noisy
- Intelligent, quick learner, and enjoys problem-solving
- Energetic, but settles down nicely indoors
- Sensitive, preferring positive reinforcement
They’re well-suited to owners who can give them both mental engagement and loving companionship.
Is the Toy Manchester Terrier a Good Family Dog?
Yes with the right household dynamic. Toy Manchesters do best in calm homes with adults or older children who understand how to handle small, delicate dogs. Their size makes them less ideal for homes with toddlers or rough play.
Ideal For:
- Singles or couples in apartments
- Active seniors
- Families with older children
- Allergy-sensitive homes
- First-time dog owners
Their manageable size and clean nature make them great quiet small dog breeds for city living.
Grooming and Coat Care
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a dream for those seeking a low-maintenance dog that doesn’t require fancy haircuts or heavy brushing.
Grooming Requirements:
- Brushing: Weekly brushing with a rubber mitt or soft bristle brush
- Bathing: Only as needed every month or so
- Ears and nails: Clean ears weekly, trim nails monthly
- Dental care: Regular brushing is essential due to their small mouths
Do Manchester Terriers have a tendency to shed?
Very little. They have short hair that sheds very little. Because they hardly shed, they fit right into a home or apartment where keeping things clean is a priority.
Is having a Toy Manchester Terrier good for people with allergies?
Even though dogs are not completely hypoallergenic, Toy Manchester Terriers tend to be accepted by people with allergies because they shed less. If allergies are a problem, this breed proves to be a hypoallergenic small dog option.
Exercise and Activity Level
Despite their size, Toy Manchester Terriers are athletic and active. They love regular playtime and short walks and excel in dog sports like agility or rally obedience.
Daily Exercise Needs:
- Short walks: 20 – 30 minutes per day
- Indoor games: Tug, fetch, puzzle toys
- Training sessions: Obedience, scent games, or new tricks
- Playdates: Socialization with other small dogs helps channel their energy
They’re calm small dog breeds indoors if their energy is well managed outdoors.
Training
The Toy Manchester Terrier is very intelligent and picks up commands quickly. However, they can also be strong-willed and easily bored, so variety and positivity are essential.
Training Tips:
- Start early socialization with people and pets
- Use positive reinforcement treats and praise work best
- Keep sessions short and upbeat to maintain their interest
- Be patient but firm; they respond best to gentle leadership
Their high trainability makes them suitable for first-time dog owners who are committed to consistent training.
Health and Lifespan
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a generally healthy breed with a long lifespan when cared for properly. Reputable breeders screen for hereditary conditions to reduce health risks.
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar luxation (kneecap displacement)
- Dental disease (common in toy breeds)
- Von Willebrand’s disease (blood clotting disorder)
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (affects the hip joint)
With proper vet care, diet, and exercise, most Toy Manchester Terriers enjoy a long and healthy life of 14-16 years.
Why the Toy Manchester Terrier Is One of the Best Small Dog Breeds
Here’s why the Toy Manchester Terrier deserves a place in any list of top small dogs:
- Beautiful small dog that moves gracefully and shows confidence
- You won’t find much hair around and your home will smell nice, making them good for apartment living.
- Many of these small dog breeds are calm but will notice and warn you when something unusual is going on.
- If you have sensitive skin, this makes a good choice.
- Sweet, loyal and having a long life.
- Activities for both outside and inside people
Final Thoughts
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a special find among small dogs, known for being refined, intelligent and having lots of heart. No matter if you prefer a city or suburban home, a Havanese dog is easy to care for, takes up little space and stays full of enthusiasm.
If a small dog that is cute, calm, clean and clever suits your lifestyle, think about the Toy Manchester Terrier.
