Understanding the Health and Care of Your Norfolk Terrier

Quick answer

Norfolk Terriers are spirited and affectionate companions known for their fearless nature. While generally robust, they are associated with a few specific health conditions including joint issues, heart concerns, and skin abnormalities. By monitoring your dog for signs of discomfort or changes in behavior and maintaining a lean body condition, you can provide the best possible support for their long-term health.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a recognised tendency in the breed. This condition involves the improper development of the hip joint, which can lead to long-term wear and discomfort.

What you will notice

Owners often first observe a reluctance to jump, difficulty rising after a nap, or a change in the dog's gait, such as a bunny-hopping motion when running. You might also notice your dog seems less interested in their usual walks.

How the vet checks it

Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination to check for joint laxity or pain upon range of motion. A definitive diagnosis is usually reached through diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, which allow the vet to visualize the fit of the hip ball within the socket.

Managing the condition

Weight management is the most important tool for an owner. Keeping your dog lean reduces the load on the joints. Your vet may also discuss joint supplements or anti-inflammatory medications if the dog shows signs of pain.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a recognised tendency in the breed. This occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal groove. It can range from mild, intermittent slipping to a more permanent displacement.

What you will notice

The most common sign is a sudden, brief skip or a hitch in the dog's step while walking or running. The dog may briefly hold a back leg up before returning to normal activity as if nothing happened.

How the vet checks it

During a routine physical, the vet will manually check the stability of the kneecap. If they suspect luxation, they will grade the severity of the movement. Further imaging is sometimes requested to assess the alignment of the leg bones.

Managing the condition

Avoid allowing your dog to perform repetitive high-impact activities on slippery surfaces. Providing rugs or runners on hardwood floors can help provide traction and reduce stress on the knees.

Mitral Valve Disease

Mitral valve disease is a recognised tendency in the breed. This involves a change in the heart valve that prevents it from closing properly, which can affect the efficiency of blood flow.

What you will notice

Early signs are often subtle. You might notice your dog tires more easily than usual, seems reluctant to exercise, or develops a soft cough, particularly at night or when resting.

How the vet checks it

Your vet will listen to the heart with a stethoscope to check for a heart murmur. If a murmur is detected, an echocardiogram is the standard test to assess the structure of the heart and the severity of the valve leakage.

Managing the condition

Early detection allows for better management. Your vet will monitor the progression of the heart's function and may prescribe medications to support heart health if necessary.

Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis is a condition where the skin appears abnormal from birth, and its status as a breed predisposition is unclear. It typically manifests as thickened, flaky, or scaly skin.

What you will notice

Owners may notice that the dog's skin appears dry, with significant scaling or flaking that does not resolve with standard grooming. The pads of the feet may also appear thickened or crusty.

How the vet checks it

Your vet will perform a physical examination of the skin and may take skin scrapings or biopsies to rule out other common skin conditions like allergies or infections. Because the cause is not settled, a diagnosis is often based on the appearance and the history of the skin issues from a young age.

Managing the condition

Management focuses on topical care, such as medicated shampoos or moisturizing treatments prescribed by your vet to soothe the skin and manage the flaking.