HISTORY
There is a picture,depicting a black and tan terrier that was painted back in the 1950's,so this breed,or at least it's forerunner's,have been around for a considerable time.
Black and tan terriers are also documanted during the 1600's,they were already recognised as ratter's,and,were well known during Tudor Times.
The most famous black and tan was Jack Black,he worked in Victorian London and is reputed to be a favourite of Queen Victoria.

The name changed to Manchester Terrier,due to their popularity around the Manchester area,where they were used as rat catcher's,around the cotton industrial areas.The K.C. formally adopted this name,in 1924.

The first and second world wars,did do the breed serious harm.In 1946,there were only 11 pure M.T.'s alive in the U.K.,and,it is thanks to dedicated breeder's from this time,that the breed survived at all.

At the current time,the K.C. recognises Manchester Terriers as being a vulnerable British breed.

TEMPERMENT

The word used in our breed standard,to describe Manchester Terriers are:- 'keen', 'alert','gay', 'sporting', 'discerning' and'devoted'.
M.T.'s are these,and,a whole lot more.They are very sensitive dogs,who adore their immediate family,never forget a friend and remain aloof with stranger's.If they percieve someone to be a threat,they will make it quite clear, that they will defend their family.
M.T.'s are a true terrier,although they have never been used to work underground.If they spot potential prey in the form of rats/mice or maybe a rabbit,they will be tenacious in destroying it.
M.T.'s also have a higher than average intelligence,with a very long memory.They require firm,but gentle training,with lots of praise and encouragement.
Properly socialised and trained,a M.T. is a delight to own,friendly with other breeds of dog,and,properly introduced people.However,they will not allow themselves,or their family to be picked on,a M.T. will not back down from a challenge.