Norfolk Terrier health: what owners should know
Conditions the Norfolk Terrier is known to be prone to, breeder screening and everyday habits that help.
Heart health is the first thing to ask a Norfolk breeder about. The breed is known to be predisposed to mitral valve disease, a heart condition that tends to appear in middle age, as well as loose kneecaps, hip dysplasia and dental disease. Responsible breeders have hearts, kneecaps and hips examined and discuss the health history of their lines openly.
Book a vet appointment if your dog develops a cough, tires quickly on walks or breathes faster than usual while resting or asleep. Also book a check if it skips or holds up a back leg, has red gums or bad breath, or changes weight without a change in diet.
Numbers worth knowing
Life expectancy
12 to 15 yrs
Senior care
Individual assessment
age alone does not define care needs
Typical breed weight
5 to 6 kg