World of the Norwich
Welcome to the wonderful, whimsical world of the Norwich Terrier
Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful, whimsical world of the Norwich Terrier. This game little terrier whose ancestors hail from East Anglia, England, is ‘‘gay, fearless, loyal and affectionate” and will immediately become an important member of your family. The Norwich Terrier Club of America (NTCA) provides this brochure to answer some of the questions most asked from new owners. It is the NTCA’s hope that you will have many years of health and happiness with your new Norwich.
Two key essentials are your breeder and your veterinarian. Your breeder, with a vast knowledge of Norwich particulars, should express an interest and willingness to assist throughout the lifetime of your dog. After receiving a complete medical history from your breeder, your veterinarian will guide you through the years, advising you on inoculations, annual check-ups, teeth cleaning, parasite control, as well as other health issues.
Life’s Basics
Your breeder will no doubt recommend a high quality dog food suitable for the hard coat of your Norwich and may also suggest a daily vitamin or other additives. No matter how much activity your dog may enjoy, it is important not to overfeed as Norwich can put on weight easily. Make sure you have plenty of water bowls in permanent locations so your dog always knows where to find fresh clean water. Bred for a hardy constitution a Norwich accepts most weather conditions, but excessive heat can present problems for many dogs. Never let your Norwich become overheated and never feed immediately after heavy activity.
Coat Care and General Maintenance
The Norwich coat is described as “hard, wiry and straight.” It is a relatively easy coat to maintain and most owners learn how to trim and tidy their own dog. Stripping (or plucking) the dead hair is the traditional way to groom the terrier coat. Clipping the coat will soften its texture, and its natural color will fade with time. While not recommended for the adult Norwich, clipping is certainly acceptable when your dog reaches the senior years. You may opt to use a professional groomer. Make sure he or she is schooled in the art of grooming terriers with double coats. The Norwich coat is fairly dirt resistant, which means bathing is limited to either odor or skin problems. Pay careful attention to your dog’s toenails. During weekly combing or brushing also check your dog’s ears and eyes to make sure they appear clean and dry. The scratching of ears or rubbing of eyes may lead you to your veterinarian for assistance.
Good Fences Makes Good Neighbors
Because a Norwich has strong hunting instincts and typical terrier curiosity, most breeders require fencing as a prerequisite to owning a Norwich puppy or adult. Not only is your dog protected from cars—the Number One killer of Norwich—he is also protected from most uncontrolled animals. Your neighbors too will appreciate the responsibility you have taken. In the absence of a digging-proof fenced area, your Norwich should be exercised using a sturdy leash and collar of leather or canvas. The collar should carry an identification tag. It is recommended that the collar not be left on after exercising for safety concerns. Permanent identification with a microchip or tattoo can be registered with AKC’s Companion Animal Recovery. A 24-hour toll-free hotline helps locate the owners.
A Home Away From Home
A dog crate, be it plastic or wire, is an important investment for a variety of reasons. To name a few: the crate allows your Norwich to eat without interference from other pets; the crate acts like a seat belt when traveling by car; the crate can be a cocoon when your Norwich just wants to get away from it all; the crate can be useful as a housebreaking tool; the crate makes your Norwich a good citizen when guests come calling or you go visiting. Another wise investment is a folding, portable exercise pen, perfect for travelling especially when no controlled area is available.
Fun And Games
Norwich are busy dogs who need to be exercised not just physically, but mentally. They should be encouraged to chase and retrieve, paddle in water under strict supervision, and enjoy the many pleasures of nature. Further stimulation in the form of obedience or puppy kindergarten are great ways for you and your dog to form an even closer relation of mutual trust and respect. By virtue of your registration papers from the American Kennel Club (AKC) your Norwich is eligible to participate in most AKC events where terriers qualify such as Agility, Obedience, Canine Good Citizen and Earth Dog Trials. Sources of information on canine activities can be obtained from your breeder, your veterinarian, a local all-breed club, the NTCA and the AKC, to name but a few. A well-socialized, mentally and physically fit Norwich is truly a happy dog.
To Breed Or Not To Breed
Most Norwich owners are happy to have their dog as a living companion and never entertain the thought of breeding. Likewise, many breeders sell with a spay and neuter contract or AKC Limited Registration papers to discourage inappropriate future breeding. Spaying your female or neutering your male is therefore a vital procedure to pursue if breeding is not in your dog’s future. Your veterinarian will agree. Spayed females avoid the risk of breast and uterine cancer; neutered males 
cannot develop testicular cancer and are less prone to prostate cancer—all extremely valid reasons to consider. While spayed and neutered dogs are excluded from competing in conformation, they can participate in Obedience, Agility and Earthdog Events. If, however, you are serious about breeding, think long and hard before going forward. Most Norwich breeders are aware of the many pitfalls particular to the breed and are willing to discuss the subject with you. Educate yourself about health issues and genetic concerns; understand the breed’s Standard, study pedigrees and observe other Norwich; figure in all expenses—medical, food, stud service, your precious time—and expect to lose money; be prepared to keep all puppies until the best homes come along regardless of the time it takes. In other words, discuss, study and proceed with caution. Your breeder and the NTCA are your two best means of resource and research.
Many NTCA members support health research for the Norwich through the AKC Canine Health Foundation—a nonprofit charitable organization whose mission is to help dogs live longer, healthier lives. Supporting the Canine Health Foundation will help ensure a healthy future for all dogs. For more information about ongoing health research to help Norwich Terriers, see www.akcchf.org or call toll free 888-682-9696.
Updated 11/17/10