Brainz

This rat terrier is the oldest known terrier breed developed in the 19th century in Manchester, England. It is considered as the best rat hunting breed and has been used in the development of other breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher and the Airedale Terrier. There are two types of the breed: the Standard weighing 17 to 18 pounds and has a height range of 15 to 16 inches and the Toy variety with an average weight of 6 to 8 pounds and standing at a height of 10 to 12 inches. It has a long and narrow head, tight skinned with a light stop and a black nose. The eyes are small, dark to nearly black and almond-shaped. The Toy variety has ears that are naturally erect while the Standard has ears that can either be naturally erect, cropped or button. The tail is thick at the base but tapers to a point. Its coat is short, smooth, dense and tight. Colours are black and tan.

Like a true terrier, the Manchester Terrier is independent, agile, powerful and intelligent. They do well in activities like obedience trials, agility and catch. It may be valued as a rat hunter but it is also a good companion dog. It is faithful, devoted and loyal to its master. It is eager to learn and easy to train. However they get upset when left alone and may be hyper and destructive. The breed cannot also be left alone with small non-canine animals as it is a hunter by nature. It is suitable for apartment living and will do well even without an open space to explore. It has a long life expectancy of 15 years or more.