If you are looking to add a Manchester Terrier (either Standard or Toy) to your life, it's a good idea to do your research and buy a puppy from a reputable breeder that will stand behind their dogs.
MT's are generally very healthy dogs and most need nothing but routine yearly veterinary care, but there are some (Grand Mal Epilepsy, Secondary Glaucoma, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Von Willebrand's Disease, Hypothyroidism, Alopecia Syndrome-pattern baldness, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Leggs Perthes, Patella Luxation, and Cardiomyopathy, Vaccination Reactions, Sensitivity to Anesthesia) that you as a buyer need to at least be aware of and ask a prospective breeder about. A reputable breeder will have tested their breeding stock when tests are available and they will know if there are incidents of particular disorders in their dog's bloodlines. They often provide a written contract, which deals with health guarantees, spay and neutering agreements and your responsibilites as an owner. Most will also take the puppy back at any time and for any reason. They will be there to answer any questions you have, throughout your dog's lifetime.
You may also want to consider a rescue. Many wonderful adults and even puppies are available for adoption throughout the country. If you don't like the idea of housebreaking and having your house destroyed by a teething puppy, then maybe a mature dog is the answer.
Most people are unaware that the darling little puppy in the pet store window comes from a commercial breeder. Commercial breeders breed for profit, not to better their stock. They are not concerned about the genetic health of their dogs, the temperment of the puppies they produce, or about the health of their own breeding stock. They are concerned with the bottom line, how often and how many pups can a bitch produce in her lifetime.
What about the neighbor down the street, who just had to breed one litter of pups so her kids could watch the miracle of birth? Did she diligently study bloodlines to find the perfect stud for her bitch? Have the parents been tested for genetic diseases? Have they had eyes, hips and knees checked and certified?
Breeding a good quality litter of puppies is not profitable, it is a labor of love. A reputable breeder is as concerned about the placement of their pups as they would be about the placement of their children <GRIN>. You should expect to be thoroughly grilled by a breeder before they will entrust you with one of their puppies.
Below are a few sites that will help you learn more about commercial breeders (aka, puppy mills). We have also provided you with a breeder referral page and links to National and International breed clubs that will allow you to research the Manchester Terrier and hopefully contact a breeder that suits your needs. We have also included a link to our Rescue page to help you explore rescue avenues for this breed.
When you find that perfect match, you'll be in for years of loyal companionship and constant entertainment<GRIN>!
So, remember...
Please check our breeder referral page for responsible breeders in your area or contact the National Breed Clubs listed below BEFORE buying a puppy or an adult dog.
USDA licensed commercial dog breeders should be thoroughly investigated before considering a purchase. If you aren't allowed to see the pups in their home environment, or aren't allowed access to the parents,
Don't Go There........
Don't be afraid
to ask for references!
