There are those who say that purebred dogs have passed their “sell by date” because many can no longer do the job for which their breed was developed.  We say, “nonsense.” A sound, well bred dog bred by a heritage breeder conscious of the breed’s purpose and heritage is “not just another pretty face,” and our series by the same name introduces you to some of those dogs.  

To that end, meet “Dot.”

There are only two Master Earthdog title holders in Manchester Terriers, and Dot is one of them. In fact, she became the first Toy Manchester Terrier (and the only female) in the history of the breed to earn the Master Earthdog title, the highest course level possible in Earthdog trials. The title is, we believe, an appropriate achievement for a breed developed to dispatch disease-carrying vermin. Clearly, Dot could do her job.

Actually, Dot is also a “pretty face.” She won Grand Puppy Sweepstakes at an American Manchester Terrier Club Specialty show in 2007, and was Reserve Winners Bitch at the 2008 American Manchester Terrier Club National Specialty over an historically high entry of females. Dot’s enthusiasm for the show ring, notwithstanding, she and her owner switched their focus to Earthdog competition before completing her championship. Her attributes also extended to the whelping box as she is a champion and grand champion producer. With only six puppies from two litters, she earned her ROM from the parent club. Dot’s daughter, Dash is a Master Agility Champion who has earned a place in the American Manchester Terrier Club Hall of Fame.  In 2016, Dot earned theAmerican Manchester Terrier Club Register of Merit, a distinction which recognizes the achievements of her offspring.

Dot has been featured in the book Earthdog Ins & Outs (2nd edition) by Jo Ann Frier-Murza (the founder of AKC’s Earthdog program) and appeared in an article in Dog News Magazine (May 2013).  She has also given Earthdog demos at AKC Meet the Breeds in NYC.

Dot is now eleven years old, retired, and living the high life with her owner/handler, Michelle Barlak.

Photo credits: Thumbnail image by Mary Bloom. Sniffing for vermin by Barbara Teigen. Meeting the rat by Michelle Barlak

If you have a dog who isn’t “just another pretty face” and has proved it with titles at both ends, and/or achievements underscoring his or her ability to do the job for which their breed was created, NPDD wants to hear from you. Send us a note along with your dog’s story and photos (be sure to include your dog’s breed, and who gets photo credit)