This charming little dog is, or should be, a toy edition of the Manchester Terrier, the points of which have already been given. Its history begins with the improvement in the larger breed, when the smallest individuals were selected and bred from for the purpose of producing a smart, active, little terrier, weighing about ten pounds. Very soon, however, fanciers desired smaller dogs and the weight was gradually diminished. The craze for diminutiveness was carried to ridiculous lengths to the detriment not only of other body properties, but with grievous harm to the constitution; and miserable, shivering little morsels, of a few pounds in weight, almost hairless, with goggle eyes, round, bulging skulls, and legs so weak as to be almost unable to bear the inconsiderable weight of the body, became common, needless to say, such specimens were not regarded with favor by the public, and the variety lost popularity, and at one time seemed threatened with extinction. Happily, one or two breeders remained faithful to the little dog and worked patiently to produce a more rational type and, after the War, new dog lovers were induced to take up the variety, and a rapid and steady improvement occurred.
Today the Black-and-Tan Miniature is enjoying a, period of prosperity greater, perhaps, than ever before; and many very beautiful specimens are to be seen. As has been said, a typical dog should be identical in all points save size with the Manchester Terrier, except that the ears are usually erect. The weight may be anything up to seven pounds, but most prize winners are considerably smaller. The desire for excessive smallness is, however, not now encouraged, a smart, active, sensible, and sound little good - coated animal being the breeder's ideal, and only when diminutive stature accompanies these qualities is it valued.
Among toys there are few more attractive dogs. As house pets for those living in flats, or small gardenless houses, they are ideal, and, though too small to be described as guards, they make sharp watch dogs. Though not robust, they are no more delicate than many other toy breeds and, given warmth and suitable food, are easily kept in health. In the summer, and on fine days in winter, they may be given open-air exercise, a coat being provided when the weather is chilly. They take up hardly any room in the house, are easily accommodated with a basket in a corner for sleeping purposes, and are very cleanly in their habits. The variety should appeal strongly to those dog lovers who require a merry, active little companion, but whose circumstances render it impossible to keep and exercise a larger breed.