Norwich Terrier Breed Characteristics
The Norwich Terrier is a small, sturdy dog with a wiry coat. Standing 10 inches high, they can weigh up to 12 pounds and have a broad chest and short back. The muzzle is long and the eyes are dark and oval-shaped. They are endowed with V-shaped and prick ears, and the tail is typically docked. Norwich Terriers come in a variety of colors, including wheaten, black and tan, red, and grizzle. Typically, the coat is a light to dark brown or black and is rough to the touch.
Temperament
They are tenacious and have a great sense of humor. This breed is not for the faint of heart – they require a lot of exercise and can be quite stubborn. They were bred to hunt small game, and thus also have a high prey drive, meaning they may have a tendency to run after things they shouldn’t – keep this in mind if you have small children or other pets in your home. On the bright side, they are very friendly and entertaining, and they love to nap on their owners’ lap whenever they take a break from chasing.
Bark
Norwich Terriers have a unique bark that is often described as sounding like a “yodel.” They are known for being very vocal dogs and will often bark at anything that catches their attention. This can make them great watchdogs, but it can also be a bit of a nuisance if you live in a busy neighborhood. If you’re looking for a dog who will bark to let you know when someone is at the door, a Norwich Terrier is a great option!
Health
Norwich Terriers are known to have a number of health problems. Some of the most common include portosystemic shunt and cancer.
Portosystemic Shunt
Norwich Terriers are prone to developing a portosystemic shunt, which can be caused by a congenital defect or as a result of liver disease. This is a condition in which there is an abnormal connection between the veins of the liver and the veins carrying blood from the rest of the body. As a result, blood can bypass the liver, which can damage the organ over time. Symptoms of a portosystemic shunt in a Norwich Terrier can include seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and poor growth. Treatment for this condition typically involves surgery to close the abnormal connection. If left untreated, a portosystemic shunt can be fatal.
Cancer
Norwich Terriers are at risk for a number of different types of cancer, including lymphoma and mast cell tumors.
- Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The Norwich Terrier is particularly prone to lymphoma, with an incidence rate of up to 26%. Symptoms can include weight loss, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, and in some cases tumors. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy or radiation therapy, although surgery may also be necessary in some cases.
- Mast cell tumors are a relatively rare cancer in dogs, and they can occur in any breed, but are most commonly seen in the Norwich Terrier. These tumors develop from mast cells, which are immune cells that play a role in both inflammation and allergy reactions. Mast cell tumors can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous), and they can occur anywhere in the body. Symptoms of a mast cell tumor may include swelling, lameness, bruising, bleeding, and skin lesions.
With early diagnosis and proper measures, the majority of cancer types can be successfully treated, letting the affected dogs go on to live long, healthy lives.
Care
Grooming
Norwich Terriers are small, compact dogs that have a wiry coat of hair. They require regular grooming to keep their coat looking healthy. Here are some tips on how to groom a Norwich Terrier:
- Start by brushing the dog’s coat thoroughly to remove any loose hair or mats.
- Next, use a slicker brush to brush the coat in the direction of hair growth. This will help remove any dead hair and knots.
- If the dog has a lot of tangles, you may need to use a comb or a detangler spray to loosen them up.
- Finally, use a dog-specific shampoo to wash the coat. Be sure to rinse well afterwards to remove all the soap.
- Towel dry the dog and then use a hair dryer on low heat to finish drying him off.
Activity
Norwich Terriers are feisty and spunky dogs that require a lot of exercise, and need to be kept entertained, or otherwise they can become destructive. Luckily, they don’t take up too much space, so they’re a good option for city-dwellers.
Training
They are intelligent and learn quickly, but can also be independent thinkers, so early discipline is important. These dogs require a lot of attention, and they are also quite independent, which can make them challenging to obedience train.
Feeding
One of the most important things you can do for your Norwich Terrier is to feed them a high-quality diet. There are many different types of dog food on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one is best for your pet. The best way to determine what type of food is right for your dog is to consult with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will likely recommend a high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically designed for small breeds. Be sure to read the ingredients list and avoid foods that contain corn, wheat, or soy, as these ingredients are common allergens for dogs.
Cost of a Norwich Terrier Puppy
Norwich Terrier puppies can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000, depending on the breeder. They are a popular breed and tend to be in high demand, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing one. Make sure you find a reputable breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and has healthy dogs. The puppy’s health is of utmost importance, so be sure to ask the breeder about the parents’ health history and any genetic disorders that may be prevalent in the breed.
Norwich Terrier History
Norwich Terriers were first bred in the 1800s in the East Anglia region of England by crossing the Welsh terrier with the Norfolk terrier. They are thought to be descended from the now-extinct Smooth Fox Terrier. The goal was to create a small dog that could flush out small game, and the Norwich terrier was a successful result of this breeding. They were originally used for vermin control and as ratters, helping to hunt and kill vermin on farms. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1933. Today, they are typically used as companions and are popular among dog show enthusiasts.
Trivia
Here are a bunch of interesting facts about this dog breed:
- Norwich Terriers are one of the oldest breeds of dog in England.
- The lifespan of a Norwich Terrier is between 12 and 14 years.
- Norwich Terriers are the official mascot of Cambridge University.
We hope you liked this article! Let us know if you decide to get a Norwich Terrier puppy.
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