Q.  Are they good with children?

A.  Yes, if brought up with them and the children treat them appropriately.  Most Manchester's adore being with children.  They have a similar outlook and capacity for play.  Older dogs are often less tolerant if they have not been brought up with or are not used to children.

Q.  Are they good with cats and other animals?

A.  Manchester's, like most breeds will get on fine with cats they have been brought up with but a stranger they are not used to may be another matter.  Having rabbits or other small mammals would be difficult, as with any terrier as their natural instincts might take over.

Q.  Do they have good temperaments?

A.  Described in the breed standard as discerning and devoted, they will usually adore family members but may be more reserved with strangers.  They will stand their ground if threatened but are not normally aggressive without good reason.  Though remember they are a terrier.

Q.  Are they difficult to train?

A.  Digelsa Manchester Terriers are well known as being highly intelligent and very easy to train.  They will quickly understand what you are asking but can be challenging if they do not see the point or benefit.  Firm, consistent and sensitive handling with a little bribery usually works well but they are clever at training their owners too.  Training to a high level is possible, the trick is the dog has to want to do it and remember - little and often and make it enjoyable with lots of praises.

Q.  Are they destructive in the home?

A.  Young Manchester's can become destructive if they are bored, as any young dog can be.  They have active minds and will find ways to occupy themselves.  Remember they don't know the difference between a toy or your most expensive pair of shoes (if left lying around) or a stick and an antique chair leg.  As with most dogs they grow out of it as they get older and settle down.  Sufficient exercise, mental stimulation and companionship avoid the boredom.

Q.  Will they dig holes in the garden?

A.  Although they are not in tended to go to ground,  some do like to dig, so the answer is probably yes, unless taught not to do this.

Q.  Ive heard they go to one person in the family?

A.  They often might have a favorite but not to the exclusion of all others, it's usually the one with a tit bit or the one willing to let them snuggle up.  They would also be inclined to recognize one member as pack leader.

Q.  Are they difficult to groom?

A.   No.  The smooth coat only needs a regular quick brush and a wipe over with a leather.  They do not need frequent bathing, only after rolling in something smelly.  Nails do need regular trimming if they are not kept short by road walking.

Q.  Do they eat much?

A.  They can be greedy and would eat more than required if they were allowed to do so, but most Manchester's eat around 300/400gms of canned food per day.  This amount is only a guide as dogs are individual and intake is dependent on body type and exercise. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to feel their ribs quite easily - but never see them.

Q.  What were originally bred to do?

A.  Originally Manchester's were bred to catch rats and other vermin which were prevalent around the towns housing and the works.  They were also used in the so called sport of the "Rat Pit".  Today, with their intended job a thing of the past, breeders strive to produce good companion dogs which are fit and healthy, have good temperaments and  good for breed type and conformation.

Q.  How much exercise do they need?

A.  Manchester's will accept as much exercise as you give them.  A mixture of free running and road walking will keep them in tip top condition.  You will also find they are just as happy to stay in front of the fire if the weather is bad. If their exercise is reduced for any reason, then so might their food as with all of us, if the balance is not right they will put on weight.

Note. All responsible owners clean up after their dogs and do not allow them to foul pavements and walkways.

Q.  Do they get on with other dogs?

A.   If they are properly socialized as puppies and through their lives.  They like the company of other dogs, preferring large dogs to other terriers but do like to be the boss.

Q.  Do they have health problems?

A.  Responsibly bred Manchester Terriers should be free from any major health problems.  They are a tough, hardy breed of dog.  There are no known health diseases passed on to puppies. 

 Manchester's Terriers may carry the gene for VonWillebrands blood disorder, type 1 .  This is the least affected type.  The KC have a DNA testing scheme  Responsible breeders DNA test their dogs prior to breeding to check for the possibility of carrying this gene.  Currently most dogs are testing clear, while some have tested as being a carrier.  Being tested clear or carrier will have no health impact on your puppy but dogs which do carry the gene should not normally be mated to other carriers.  This way it will eventually be eliminated.

Q.  Do they bite?

A.  All dogs will bite, if provoked.  It is the only way they have to defend themselves.  Manchester's are not normally aggressive.

Q.  Do they bark much?

Manchester's are not known to be barker's or yapper's but they do have a very good bark when used to protect.  Their hearing is super sensitive and will let you know of anyone approaching the door, windows or garden.  Usually no intruders, means no barking.  They can bark when excited and playing.

Q.  What can we expect if we have a puppy?

A.  Never a dull moment, a mischievous little thing who thing get into lots of trouble, be good at escaping but who will give you years and years of endless pleasure, faithfulness and companionship.

Q.  Is there any club or support?

A.  Anyone can ask us any questions at any time, by email or telephone. The Manchester Terrier Association (proposed) is always available to offer support and advice to owners or anyone wishing to know more about the breed.  The club has a good informative Website and a facebook group open to all.  There will be get togethers, fun events and educational events for all owners and people interested in Manchester Terriers.

A.  MQ.  Where can I find out more information or see Manchester Terriers.

A.   Feel free to ask us here at "Digelsa" we have 30 years of experience happy to answer questions.                                                                                                                                                               

If anyone has a question which does not appear -  please contact us and we will hopefully be able to answer and add it.