Manchester Terrier vs. Doberman vs. Min Pin

My buddies, Wiley and Fivel, left a comment that I hear a lot. They thought I was a Doberman, or some kind of off shoot (I'm also always confused with being a Min Pin). So for them, and you, a little "edumaction"!

I am a Standard Manchester Terrier (not a miniature Doberman - they do not exist!). I'm about 17" tall, 24lbs, terrier through and through, I love to jump, track, RUN and eat!!

Appearing in the form we know today in the late 1800s the longevity of this breed should be recognized. Writings referring to an earlier version of the breed (the English Black and Tan Terrier) date back almost 400 years, making the Manchester one of the oldest breeds of terrier currently recognized. [source]

It is believed that some Manchester Terrier genes were used among many other breeds to create the Doberman we know today (hence the similarities in look). [source]

Miniature Pinschers even pre-date the Doberman. They too are a cross breed of the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound. [source]

Originally we were bred as ratters, and even participated in various sports pitting us against rats in a fight. Once that was outlawed, some fanciers decided to refine the breed. By using a Whippet cross they were able to transform the breed from the rough coated, rugged terrier of the ratters to the sleek, elegant, gentleman's companion we now know.

Another factor is colour. Where Doberman's and Min Pin's come in either Black & Tan, Chocolate or Stag Red, the Manchester Terrier is only found to be Black & Tan in colour.

The Manchester now appears as two varieties in North America, distinguished primarily by weight: Toys up to, but not exceeding 12 lb., and Standards 12-22 lb.

If you want an awesome site that breaks it down...check out Ebet Toy Manchester website. Here are some pics from their site.

Toy Manchester Terrier, Standard Manchester Terrier, German Pinscher, Doberman Pinscher

Here's a little video of me playing at the park with my Doberman buddy, Vegas. He is about 8 or 9 months old...so he will still get bigger. I, on the other hand, am full grown. Enjoy!

Breed Spotlight: The Basenji

So I was at Greenwood yesterday and met two new little dogs. They were Basenji's. My human was smitten. She confessed this was the breed she looked at before picking me (WHAT?!). So naturally, I was curious about these pups...and wanted to see what the hype was about.

Well, the Basenji is a sighthound. It is small and agile (like me!), and adapts well to most living conditions. It comes in three different colour combos with ears that stand up and a curly tail.

According to the Basenji Club of Canada it's said to be of ancient origin, this hunting breed was valued for its speed, intelligence, and silent workmanship. They have excellent sight, very mobile ears, and an outstanding sense of smell. The Basenji is often called the “African Barkless” dog, but it is not mute. It can howl, growl and snarl. In addition it can make a yodeling noise and puppies can crow like roosters.

What I loved was their willingness to play, chase and be gentle around new pups and people. I admit, these two i met were quite cute. One was red and white, the other tri-colour.

They are said to make great pets, but can be a challenge to train. So you must be disciplined to take one on. They are quite independent. For more info, check out the Basenji Clubs in Canada and the US.

[photo credit]