Norwich Terrier

Like many small breeds, they can suffer from kneecaps that may temporarily slip out of place (luxating patellas) but generally the Norwich Terrier is generally a healthy, hardy dog with few health problems.

The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

The Norwich Terrier requires an hour or more exercise each day, but will happily take more if you are offering it. Ensure a variety of activities, training, games, digging and chasing toys to keep your Norwich Terrier engaged and avoid boredom.

Being small, the Norwich Terrier can live in any sized home, however a secure garden with solid fencing is important as they are agile and more than capable of digging under fencing or squeezing through the smallest of gaps. Alert and vocal, the Norwich Terrier may find city living overwhelming, but suburban, semi-rural and countryside living with access to plenty of walks and secure spaces to run and chase will be ideal.

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

The hard, wire coat is relatively easy to keep in good condition with a good brush through once or twice a week. The coat will also need to be hand plucked twice a year. A professional groomer or the breeder will be able to give advice on this, and it is easy enough to learn to do yourself at home. A regularly hand stripped or rolled coat is extremely easy to maintain and is weatherproof and sheds dirt easily.

Early socialisation and habituation with children, cats, small furry pets and livestock is vital. The Norwich is a clever little dog and will learn quickly with positive reinforcement-based methods and a good understanding of what makes a terrier tick. Appropriate outlets for chasing, tugging, digging and chewing will meet your Norwich’s needs and keep them happy. Recall training is a must as the Norwich will be keen to chase anything they consider ‘prey’. This is a fun little dog who will enjoy trick training and is capable of mini agility, scent work and more.

Better suited to homes with older children, and quieter homes. The Norwich Terrier is sharp and alert, meaning that the busy home may be over-stimulating, resulting in a stressed and likely noisy dog who cannot settle. Older teenagers who can help with training will enjoy working with this fun little dog.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.