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Manchester Terrier vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between Manchester Terrier and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Manchester Terrier
England

Manchester Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

Lively, clever, and loyal, this breed thrives on companionship and adventure. Sleek and spirited, the Manchester Terrier brings energy and affection to any household.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

5.4–10 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

14–16 years

Female:

5.4–10 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Manchester Terrier

Friendliness
3/5

Generally sociable but may be reserved with strangers

Intelligence
5/5

Quick learner, responsive to training and cues

Energy Level
5/5

Very active, needs regular exercise and activity

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and playful activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and routines

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Manchester Terrier

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Patellar luxation, von Willebrand’s disease

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Manchester Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Intelligent and eager to please, but may need consistent early training and socialization

Apartment Living
5/5

Well suited

Small size and moderate activity level work well in most apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Very suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and playtime, thrives with active families or individuals

Kids
2/5

Use caution

Can be snappy with rough handling, supervision needed around small children

Multiple Pets
3/5

Possible fit

May get along if raised together, can be territorial with unfamiliar pets

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Manchester Terrier

  • Alert watchdog instincts and quick response
  • Strong loyalty to primary family members
  • High intelligence and fast learning ability
  • Low grooming needs and minimal shedding
  • Agile and energetic for active lifestyles

Golden Retriever

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Highly trainable and eager to please
  • Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
  • Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
  • Strong retrieving and swimming abilities

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Manchester Terrier

  • Can be prone to separation anxiety
  • Tendency to chase small animals persistently
  • Sensitive to harsh correction or rough handling
  • May bark excessively if not trained
  • Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation

Golden Retriever

  • Prone to obesity without portion control
  • High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
  • Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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