Buying
a Healthy Puppy
The most important
thing when looking to purchase a Norfolk or Norwich
Terrier is to locate a breeder that you like and
trust. A good breeder is not necessarily one who
has never produced a dog with a health problem
(we all have) but one who acknowledges these problems
and tries to correct them in their breeding program.
If you are unable to find or visit with a breeder in
your area the telephone is your next best bet.
Although breed type and confirmation (how the dog
looks) are important, pet owners should be most concerned
with temperament and health. In general, Norfolk and
Norwich terriers are hardy little dogs, however each
breed does have potential health issues and these should
be discussed with the breeder prior to purchasing a
puppy. Interestingly, although both breeds originated
from the same genetic stock, many of their health issues
are now different.
The Norfolk Terrier
The most serious
genetic disease in Norfolk Terriers is a life threatening
heart abnormality know as mitral valve disease (MVD).
At this time, Norfolk breeders are working with the
AKC Canine Health foundation to try and eliminate or
at least reduce the incidence of this problem, but
this type of research takes many years. Dogs and bitches
used for breeding should be certified clear of the
disease.
Genetic eye problems affect all breeds. Although
Norfolk seems to have few problems, breeding stock
should be certified clear of defects by a veterinary
ophthalmologist.
Most breeds carry genes for hip dysplasia. Poor hip
joint conformation can result in the formation of painful
arthritis in later years. However, because of the Norfolk
is a small dog, most seem to do very well unless the
dysplasia is severe. Knees can also be a problem in
most small breeds. Luxating patellae (a slipping knee
cap) can be mild, moderate, or severe. Breeding stock
should be screened for these problems and certified
clear. Fortunately, these conditions are not life threatening
and can be controlled medically, or corrected surgically.
There are, of course, many other diseases which can
affect any dog including allergies, cancers, autoimmune
problems, etc. Choose a breeder who is willing to discuss
health issues honestly. Register your puppy with AKC
promptly as you receive 2 months of free health insurance
with your registration. I recommend that every pet
owner continue to purchase health insurance for their
pet. Veterinary medicine can do amazing things to ensure
our pets a long and healthy life but many treatments
and procedure can be costly.
The Norwich Terrier
The most serious
inherited defects in Norwich Terriers are breathing
problems and epilepsy. At this time, there are no genetic
screening tests, so one must talk to breeders and discuss
these issues honestly and openly. Epilepsy is usually
controllable with medication, but there are always
a few animals whose seizures are not easily controlled.
Affected dogs should not be used for breeding. There
are several different breathing abnormalities in Norwich
including elongated soft pallets and collapsing tracheas.
Dogs or bitches that have breathing issues should also
not be a part of a breeding program.
As with Norfolk, Norwich Terriers should
be screened for hip and knee problems although the
Norwich seems to have fewer problems with hip dysplasia.
Again, because these are small dogs, orthopedic problems
are usually less bothersome and can be treated medically
or surgically if needed.
Genetic eye abnormalities are
not a big problem in this breed, but breeding stock
should be screened by a veterinary ophthalmologist.
There are of course other diseases
that can affect any dog and a frank discussion with
the breeder about any potential health issues is important.
Register your puppy with the AKC promptly as you will
receive 2 months of free health insurance with your
registration. Puppies can get into lots if trouble,
so we encourage all pet owners to continue health insurance
for their pet. With insurance in place, you will not
be faced with having to make a decision for your pet’s
medical treatment based on finances.
Article wriiten by Carol Falk,
NNTC Health & Genetics Chair
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