Breeding Norwich Terriers

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Norwich Terriers presents unique challenges that separate this rare terrier from more common small breeds. With an average litter size of just 2.5 puppies, a C-section rate approaching 44%, and Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS) affecting nearly all dogs to some degree, responsible Norwich breeders must combine exceptional knowledge, financial resources, and dedication to preserve this spirited, prick-eared ratting terrier.

Breed Overview

The Norwich Terrier originated in the 1800s in England as a working dog bred to rid stables of rats and other vermin. The breed was recognized in England in 1932, initially including both prick-eared and drop-eared varieties. The first Norwich was registered with the AKC in 1936, a drop-eared English male named Witherslack Sport. In 1979, the AKC officially separated the drop-eared variety as the Norfolk Terrier, establishing the Norwich as the prick-eared breed we know today.

Norwich Terriers are classified in the Terrier Group and currently rank 104th in AKC popularity. Registration trends remain stable despite the breed's challenges, sustained by a dedicated group of preservation breeders. The breed's parent club, the Norwich Terrier Club of America, provides extensive educational resources and breeding guidance focused on health, temperament, and breed type.

Unlike the closely related drop-eared Norfolk Terrier, the Norwich's erect, pointed ears are a defining breed characteristic and an essential breeding priority. This small working terrier retains the fearless, adaptable temperament required for ratting work, making the Norwich an outstanding companion despite its diminutive size.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

The Norwich Terrier is spirited and stocky with sensitive prick ears and a slightly foxy expression. One of the smallest working terriers, this sturdy descendant of ratting companions stands 9-10 inches at the withers and weighs 11-13 pounds (males) or 10-12 pounds (females). Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers require good bone and substance with an almost weatherproof hard, wiry coat.

Disqualifications that eliminate dogs from breeding programs:

• Cropped whiskers
• Shyness or excessive aggressiveness

Serious faults that impact breeding decisions:

• Drop ears (should be erect and pointed) - This is the primary distinction from Norfolk Terriers and is non-negotiable
• White marks (not desirable)
• Long, narrow head
• Excessive trimming of coat
• Weak or snipy muzzle

Key breeding priorities:

• Correct prick ear set and carriage - Ears must be medium-sized, erect, pointed, and set well apart
• Sturdy bone and substance - Norwich must feel solid despite small size
• Hard, wiry coat with proper texture - Double coat with hard, wiry outer coat and dense undercoat
• Sound movement and structural balance - Free, true gait with good reach and drive
• Gay, fearless temperament - Must retain working terrier spirit
• Proper head type with foxy expression - Wedge-shaped head with fox-like expression

Norwich Terriers should be slightly longer than tall, compact but not cobby. Breeding for extreme smallness or excessive size (over 10 inches) undermines the breed's working ability and structural soundness.

Reproductive Profile

Breeding Norwich Terriers requires acceptance of significant reproductive challenges. The average litter size is just 2.5 puppies, with typical litters ranging from 1 to 4 puppies. Single-puppy litters occur in approximately 20% of breedings, making economic viability difficult. Litters of 5 or more puppies are exceptionally rare (under 2%).

The C-section rate in Norwich Terriers is exceptionally high at 44%, with some studies reporting rates from 36.6% to 51.6%. Even small litters frequently require surgical intervention due to the breed's compact structure and relatively large puppy head size. Many experienced breeders schedule elective C-sections rather than risk emergency surgery.

Common fertility challenges:

• Failure to conceive
• Resorption of puppies during pregnancy
• Extremely small litter sizes
• High neonatal mortality
• Difficult whelping requiring veterinary intervention

Natural breeding is preferred when geography permits, but artificial insemination (both fresh and frozen) is commonly used due to the limited number of quality studs and the geographic distances between breeding programs. Fresh AI generally yields better conception rates than frozen in this breed.

Breeding Age and Timeline

Female Norwich Terriers typically experience first heat at 6-9 months of age. However, breeding should be delayed until the female is physically and mentally mature. The recommended first breeding age is after the second heat, at a minimum of 18-24 months, with all health clearances completed.

Males can be used for stud service at 18-24 months once all health testing is complete. Earlier use of young males should be avoided as temperament and structural faults may not yet be apparent.

OFA testing timeline:

• Hip and patellar luxation evaluations: Minimum 24 months
• Eye examinations: Initial exam before first breeding, re-exam at 4-5 years

Retirement guidelines: Given the breed's reproductive challenges and small litter sizes, most breeders limit females to a maximum of 4 litters in their lifetime. Retirement age is typically 6-8 years, though individual health and breeding success may warrant earlier retirement.

Breeding timeline from testing to placement:

1. Months 24+: Complete all OFA and DNA testing
2. Pre-breeding: Progesterone testing to determine optimal breeding window (critical given low conception rates)
3. Breeding: Natural breeding or fresh AI
4. Days 25-30: Ultrasound confirmation of pregnancy
5. Day 55-63: Whelping (prepare for C-section)
6. Weeks 1-8: Intensive neonatal care and puppy monitoring
7. Weeks 10-12: Puppy placement after extended socialization

Required Health Testing

All Norwich Terriers used for breeding must complete CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) required testing before their first breeding. Given the breed's significant health challenges, particularly NTUAS, comprehensive health testing is non-negotiable.

CHIC Required Tests:

Eye Examination by ACVO Ophthalmologist: Screens for hereditary eye diseases including Primary Lens Luxation. Cost approximately $75. Initial examination before breeding, with re-examination at ages 4-5 years to catch late-onset conditions.

Hip Dysplasia Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP): Screens for hip joint malformation and dysplasia. Cost approximately $200. One-time evaluation at minimum 24 months of age. Norwich Terriers show a 14.9% abnormal rate based on OFA data.

Patellar Luxation Evaluation (OFA): Screens for kneecap displacement, common in small terriers. Cost approximately $50. One-time evaluation at minimum 24 months, though some breeders re-check before each breeding.

Additional Strongly Recommended Tests:

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) DNA Test: Screens for ADAMTS17 gene mutation causing lens luxation. Cost approximately $65. One-time DNA test that identifies clear, carrier, and affected dogs. Essential for breeding decisions to avoid producing affected puppies.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) DNA Test: Screens for SOD1 gene mutation associated with progressive spinal cord disease. Cost approximately $65. One-time test.

D-Locus DNA Test: Screens for MLPH gene mutation causing color dilution. Cost approximately $65. Helps identify potential for color dilution alopecia, though this has not been reported in Norwich to date.

Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS) Screening: Screens for ADAMTS3 gene variant associated with respiratory issues. Cost approximately $150. This test is critical for Norwich breeding programs as almost all Norwich are affected to some degree. While the genetic basis is complex and the test doesn't identify all cases, it provides valuable information for breeding decisions.

Total estimated health testing cost per dog: $670 (CHIC required plus recommended DNA tests)

All testing should be completed and registered with OFA before first breeding. CHIC numbers should be publicly available and included in stud advertisements and puppy contracts.

Hereditary Health Conditions

Norwich Terriers face several significant hereditary health conditions that require careful breeding management. The most critical is Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS), which affects nearly every dog in the breed to some degree.

Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS)

Prevalence: Almost all Norwich affected to some degree. Historical data showed 44% severely affected (1988-1997), but intensive screening efforts have reduced severe cases to 8.6% (2006-2014).

Inheritance: Complex/polygenic. An ADAMTS3 gene variant has been identified as an associated factor, but inheritance involves multiple genes and is not fully understood.

DNA Test: Available, but does not identify all affected dogs. Results should be used as one factor among many in breeding decisions.

Clinical Signs: Noisy breathing, respiratory distress, exercise intolerance, snoring, gagging, and in severe cases, potential for life-threatening respiratory crisis. Presentation is highly variable - some dogs are mildly affected and live normal lives, while others require surgical intervention.

Age of Onset: Can be present from birth. Symptoms may worsen with age, or dogs may remain subclinical throughout life. Heat and stress can exacerbate symptoms.

Breeding Impact: This is the single most important health consideration in Norwich breeding. Breeders must carefully evaluate potential breeding dogs for respiratory soundness, use DNA testing as available, and track respiratory health in all offspring. Breeding two severely affected dogs significantly increases risk of producing puppies with life-threatening airway compromise.

Hip Dysplasia

Prevalence: 14.9% abnormal per OFA (based on 1,513 evaluations through April 2021)

Inheritance: Polygenic with environmental factors

DNA Test: Not available

Clinical Signs: Gradual deterioration of hip joint, lameness, difficulty rising, reduced activity, loss of muscle mass in rear legs

Age of Onset: Can develop in young dogs (4-6 months) but more commonly diagnosed in adults

Breeding Impact: OFA evaluation required. Dogs with any degree of dysplasia should not be bred, even in a numerically small breed where genetic diversity is limited.

Patellar Luxation

Prevalence: Common in breed, though specific percentages are not published

Inheritance: Polygenic with environmental factors

DNA Test: Not available

Clinical Signs: Intermittent lameness, skipping gait, kneecap slipping out of place, difficulty extending leg, pain

Age of Onset: Can be congenital or develop in young to middle-aged dogs

Breeding Impact: Only dogs with normal patellas (OFA normal) should be bred. Even grade 1 luxation should disqualify a dog from breeding programs, similar to recommendations in Cairn Terriers and other small terrier breeds.

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)

Prevalence: Low to moderate; some Norwich carry the ADAMTS17 mutation

Inheritance: Autosomal recessive

DNA Test: Available. Dogs can be clear, carrier, or affected. Clear x clear = all clear puppies. Clear x carrier = 50% clear, 50% carriers. Carrier x carrier = 25% affected.

Clinical Signs: Displacement of eye lens, eye pain, redness, cloudiness, potential for glaucoma and blindness if untreated

Age of Onset: Typically 3-8 years

Breeding Impact: DNA test is essential. Never breed two carriers together. Breeding clear x carrier produces no affected puppies but perpetuates carrier status - this is acceptable to maintain genetic diversity but requires disclosure and tracking.

Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (Paroxysmal Dyskinesia)

Prevalence: Not very common in Norwich Terriers

Inheritance: Unknown, likely genetic component

Clinical Signs: Muscle spasms and cramping, particularly in hind limbs, without loss of consciousness. Increased muscle tone, all limbs may be affected but hind limbs typically more severe.

Age of Onset: Variable

Breeding Impact: Affected dogs and their immediate relatives should be carefully evaluated before breeding decisions. Track occurrence in pedigrees.

Heart Murmurs and Heart Disease

Prevalence: Develop with age in some Norwich; specific prevalence not published

Inheritance: Variable depending on specific condition

Clinical Signs: Heart murmur detected on examination, coughing, exercise intolerance, lethargy, difficulty breathing

Age of Onset: Middle-aged to senior dogs

Breeding Impact: Breeding dogs should receive cardiac examination. Dogs with clinically significant heart disease should not be bred.

Color and Coat Genetics

Norwich Terriers are accepted in a range of natural terrier colors, and coat texture is a more critical breeding consideration than color. All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, and grizzle are acceptable. White marks are not desirable per the breed standard.

Genetic loci relevant to Norwich color:

A-Locus (ASIP - Agouti Signaling Peptide): Controls distribution of black and red pigment. The breed carries various A-locus alleles producing red, wheaten, black and tan, and grizzle patterns.

E-Locus (MC1R - Extension): Controls whether dark pigment can be expressed. Most Norwich carry E alleles allowing normal pigment expression.

D-Locus (MLPH - Dilution): Controls intensity of pigment. The dd genotype produces dilute colors (blue, fawn). While dilute colors have not been reported as problematic in Norwich, dilute color is associated with color dilution alopecia in some breeds. D-locus DNA testing is recommended to identify dd dogs.

Breeding considerations:

• Color should never be prioritized over health, structure, and temperament
• White markings are not desirable - avoid breeding dogs with white markings or patterns
• Dilute colors (dd genotype) should be approached cautiously; test and track coat quality in any dilute dogs
• Black and tan, red, and wheaten are all equally acceptable and should be selected based on overall quality of the dog, not color preference

The Norwich coat must be hard and wiry with a dense undercoat. Soft, silky, or open coats are serious faults that impact the breed's weather-resistant working ability. Coat texture is more heritable than coat color and should be a primary selection criterion. Never breed a dog with incorrect coat texture, regardless of other qualities.

Selecting Norwich Terrier Breeding Stock

Selecting breeding stock in Norwich Terriers requires balancing breed type, health, temperament, and genetic diversity within a numerically small gene pool. The breed's limited population and significant health challenges make every breeding decision consequential.

Conformation Priorities:

Correct prick ear set, carriage, and size: Non-negotiable. Ears must be medium-sized, erect, pointed, and set well apart on the skull. This is the primary distinction from Norfolk Terriers.

Hard, wiry coat texture with proper undercoat: Essential for breed type and working function. Soft, silky, or sparse coats disqualify dogs from breeding programs.

Sturdy bone and substance for size: Norwich must feel solid and substantial despite being under 10 inches tall. Fine-boned or overly refined dogs lack working terrier type.

Proper head type with foxy expression: Wedge-shaped head with good width, strong muzzle, and alert foxy expression. Long, narrow heads are a serious fault.

Sound movement and structural balance: Free, true movement with good reach and drive. Rear movement issues often indicate structural problems.

Gay, fearless temperament: Essential terrier character. Shyness or excessive aggression disqualifies dogs from breeding and showing.

Common faults to select against:

• Drop ears or improper ear set
• Soft, silky coat lacking proper texture
• Long, narrow head lacking proper width
• White markings
• Excessive size over 10 inches
• Shyness or excessive aggression

Temperament Evaluation:

Assess breeding candidates for the gay, fearless, loyal, and affectionate temperament described in the standard. Norwich should be adaptable, sporting, and make ideal companions. They should be alert and interested in their surroundings without being hyperactive or nervous. Any shyness or excessive aggression is a disqualification and must eliminate dogs from breeding consideration.

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) Targets:

The average COI in Norwich Terriers is approximately 8.1%, reflecting a relatively small gene pool. Target COI for individual breedings should be under 6.25% (equivalent to a half-sibling mating) when possible, though achieving this in Norwich can be challenging given limited breeding stock.

Use a minimum 5-generation COI calculation. Some breeders use 10-generation COI for better accuracy. Each breeding should aim to maintain or reduce COI relative to breed average while preserving breed type and health. Outcrossing to less-related lines may be necessary to manage COI, even if it means compromising slightly on show potential.

Stud Selection:

Quality Norwich studs are limited and command premium fees, typically $1,500-$3,000. When selecting a stud:

• Verify all CHIC requirements are complete and publicly available
• Request NTUAS screening results and respiratory evaluation
• Review offspring from previous breedings for health, temperament, and type
• Evaluate pedigree for COI and potential genetic complementarity with your female
• Consider temperament and trainability, not just show wins
• Discuss stud owner's breeding philosophy and commitment to health

Similar to the considerations in Miniature Schnauzer breeding programs, genetic diversity and health must be weighted heavily in stud selection, not just championship titles.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

Whelping Norwich Terriers requires preparation for intervention. With a C-section rate of 44%, breeders must be prepared emotionally and financially for surgical delivery. Many experienced Norwich breeders schedule elective C-sections rather than risk emergency surgery, particularly for first-time mothers or litters showing any complications on prenatal ultrasound.

C-section Considerations:

Schedule elective C-section at day 61-62 if progesterone testing and prenatal monitoring suggest a large litter for breed (3-4 puppies) or any positioning concerns. Have emergency veterinary contact information available 24/7 during the whelping window. Estimate $1,500-$2,500 for C-section including afterhours emergency fees.

Natural Whelping:

If attempting natural whelping, be prepared to transport for emergency surgery at any sign of dystocia:

• Active straining for 30-60 minutes without puppy
• Resting more than 2-4 hours between puppies with more puppies confirmed on ultrasound
• Green discharge before first puppy
• Maternal distress or weakness

Birth Weights and Early Development:

Male Norwich puppies typically weigh 3.5-4.5 ounces at birth. Females weigh 3-4 ounces. These tiny puppies require intensive monitoring and rapid intervention if weight gain stalls.

Target daily weight gain is 5-10% of birth weight during the first two weeks. Weigh puppies twice daily for the first week, then daily through week three. Any puppy losing weight or failing to gain should be supplemented immediately.

Breed-Specific Complications:

• Small litter sizes mean reduced thermal mass - supplemental heat sources critical
• High neonatal mortality - monitor constantly for first 72 hours
• Weak puppies may require tube feeding to establish
• NTUAS can affect puppies from birth - monitor respiratory effort carefully
• Single-puppy litters face higher risk - dam may not produce adequate milk for one puppy

Tube Feeding:

Learn tube feeding before breeding. Many Norwich puppies require supplementation in the first days of life. Use puppy milk replacer and tube feed 1-2 ml per ounce of body weight every 2-3 hours if nursing is inadequate.

No Tail Docking or Ear Cropping:

Norwich Terriers are shown and bred naturally. No dewclaw removal, tail docking, or ear cropping is performed. The prick ears are natural and should be erect by 10-12 weeks. If ears have not erected by 16 weeks, consult with experienced breeders about massage and taping techniques.

Puppy Development Milestones

Norwich Terrier puppies are exceptionally tiny at birth but grow steadily when properly nourished. Close monitoring of growth ensures puppies are thriving and identifies any developmental concerns early.

Weekly Growth Milestones:

Week 0 (Birth): Males 4 oz (0.25 lbs), females 3.5 oz (0.22 lbs). Eyes and ears closed. Puppies should nurse or be tube fed every 2-3 hours.

Week 1: Males 8 oz (0.5 lbs), females 7 oz (0.45 lbs). Puppies should double birth weight. Eyes remain closed. Begin gentle daily handling for early neurological stimulation.

Week 2: Males 12-13 oz (0.8 lbs), females 11 oz (0.7 lbs). Eyes begin opening around day 10-14. Hearing develops. Increase handling and introduce mild stressors (different surfaces, gentle sounds).

Week 3: Males 1.1 lbs, females 1.0 lbs. Puppies become mobile. Begin transitioning to weaning food (gruel). First deworming. Introduce enrichment toys and novel objects.

Week 4: Males 1.5 lbs, females 1.3 lbs. Puppies fully mobile and interactive. Play behavior emerges. Second deworming. First puppy vaccination. Increase environmental enrichment.

Week 5: Males 2.0 lbs, females 1.8 lbs. Socialization in full swing. Introduce children, other dogs (vaccinated), various surfaces and sounds. Begin crate training and housetraining concepts.

Week 6: Males 2.5 lbs, females 2.2 lbs. Second vaccination. Weaning complete or nearly complete. Individual personality differences become apparent. Begin temperament evaluations.

Week 7: Males 3.2 lbs, females 2.8 lbs. Peak socialization window. Maximum exposure to people, sounds, surfaces, experiences. Individual photos and evaluations for puppy matching.

Week 8: Males 3.8 lbs, females 3.4 lbs. Traditional puppy pickup age, though many Norwich breeders hold puppies longer. Third deworming. Final structural evaluation before placement.

Week 10-12: Go-home age for most Norwich puppies. Males 4.7-5.3 lbs, females 4.3-4.9 lbs. Extended time with littermates provides additional socialization and development. Third vaccination completed before or shortly after placement.

Critical Socialization Window: 3-14 weeks, with the most critical period at 8-10 weeks. Norwich puppies benefit from remaining with the breeder through 10-12 weeks to maximize socialization and establish confident temperaments.

Fear Periods: First fear period typically occurs around 8-10 weeks. Avoid traumatic experiences during this time. Second fear period occurs around 6-8 months.

Structural Evaluation Timing: Initial evaluation at 8-10 weeks for puppy placement. Final breeding-quality evaluation at 6-8 months when adult proportions are more apparent and ears are fully erected. Many structural faults become apparent only after 6 months.

Adult Size Achievement: Norwich reach full height by 6-8 months but continue to fill out and mature until 10-12 months. Full coat development takes 18-24 months. Some Norwich continue to mature mentally until 2-3 years of age.

Norwich Terrier Breeding Economics

Breeding Norwich Terriers is rarely profitable when done responsibly. The combination of extensive health testing, high C-section rates, tiny litter sizes, and lengthy puppy retention (10-12 weeks) creates significant financial burden. Most breeders subsidize their breeding programs with other income.

Cost Breakdown per Litter:

Health Testing (per breeding dog): $670 for CHIC requirements plus recommended DNA tests. This is a one-time cost per dog but must be amortized across limited litters (maximum 4 per female lifetime).

Stud Fee: $2,000 average. Some exceptional studs command $3,000+. May include return service if breeding does not produce puppies, but most breeders require progesterone testing before breeding to optimize timing.

Progesterone Testing: $300 for serial testing to determine optimal breeding window. Critical in Norwich given low conception rates.

Prenatal Veterinary Care: $500 for pregnancy confirmation ultrasound, routine monitoring, pre-whelping x-ray for puppy count.

Whelping Costs: Natural whelping with complications averages $500. C-section averages $1,500 but can exceed $2,500 for afterhours emergency surgery. With 44% C-section rate, average whelping cost is approximately $940.

Puppy Veterinary Costs: $150 per puppy for deworming (3 rounds), first and second vaccinations, health certificates, microchips. For average litter of 2.5 puppies: $375.

Food and Supplies: $400 for dam's prenatal diet, puppy weaning food through 10-12 weeks, whelping supplies, cleaning supplies, enrichment toys.

Registration Costs: $200 for litter registration and individual puppy registrations with AKC.

Total Cost (Natural Whelping): Approximately $5,385

Total Cost (C-Section): Approximately $5,885

Average per typical 2.5-puppy litter: $5,635

Revenue:

Average Puppy Price (Pet Quality): $3,000

Average Puppy Price (Show Potential): $4,500

Average Litter Revenue: $7,500 (2.5 puppies at $3,000 average)

Net Analysis:

Average net per litter: $1,865 ($7,500 revenue - $5,635 costs)

This assumes a natural whelping. C-section delivery reduces net to $1,615. This "profit" does not account for:

• Breeder's time (easily 300+ hours per litter from breeding through placement)
• Stud dog costs (health testing, showing, maintaining breeding males)
• Equipment and facility costs
• Show entries and travel to evaluate breeding stock
• Mentor fees and education
• Advertising and marketing

Single-Puppy Litters:

Occurring in 20% of Norwich breedings, single-puppy litters are devastating economically:

• Revenue: $3,000 (one puppy)
• Costs: $5,635 (identical costs)
• Net: -$2,635 loss

Economic Reality:

Most responsible Norwich breeders operate at a loss or break-even across their breeding program. The breed is preserved by dedicated hobbyist breeders who subsidize their programs with other income. Commercial breeding of Norwich is not economically viable given the reproductive challenges and small litter sizes, which serves as a natural deterrent to puppy mills.

Prospective Norwich breeders must be financially prepared to absorb significant losses, particularly in early years while establishing a program. Budget for worst-case scenarios: single-puppy litters, emergency C-sections, neonatal losses, and puppies that must be retained rather than sold due to health or structural concerns.

Breeder Resources

Parent Club: Norwich Terrier Club of America - Comprehensive resources including health information, breeder directory, puppy buyer education, NTUAS research updates, and breeding guidelines.

Regional Clubs: Several regional Norwich Terrier clubs provide local mentorship, educational events, and specialty shows. Contact NTCA for regional club information in your area.

AKC Breeder Programs:

• AKC Breeder of Merit: Recognizes dedicated breeders who health test, provide continuity of care, and follow responsible breeding practices.
• AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.: Emphasizes Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition.

Recommended Books:

• The Norwich Terrier by Marjorie Bunting - Classic comprehensive breed text
• Norwich Terriers Today by Barbara Miller - Modern breeding and care guide
• The Complete Norwich Terrier by Elsworth Howell and Marjorie Bunting - Historical and breeding information

Online Communities:

• Norwich Terrier Club of America member forums - Private forums for NTCA members to discuss breeding, health, and showing
• Norwich Terrier breed-specific Facebook groups - Several active groups connect breeders and owners worldwide
• Terrier breed discussion forums - General terrier forums include Norwich-specific discussions

Mentorship: The NTCA strongly encourages prospective breeders to work with an experienced mentor for several years before breeding their first litter. Given the breed's significant reproductive and health challenges, particularly NTUAS, mentorship is essential. Contact the NTCA for mentor matching.

Research and Health Resources: Stay current with NTUAS research through the NTCA Health Committee. The breed club funds ongoing research into respiratory health, reproductive issues, and genetic diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Norwich Terriers typically have?

Norwich Terriers have an average litter size of just 2.5 puppies, with typical litters ranging from 1 to 4 puppies. Single-puppy litters occur in approximately 20% of breedings, while litters of 5 or more are exceptionally rare (under 2%). The small litter size is one of the breed's most significant challenges and makes breeding economics difficult.

Do Norwich Terriers need C-sections?

Norwich Terriers have an exceptionally high C-section rate of approximately 44%, with some studies reporting rates from 36.6% to 51.6%. Many experienced breeders schedule elective C-sections at day 61-62 rather than risk emergency surgery, particularly for first-time mothers or larger litters (3-4 puppies). Breeders should budget $1,500-$2,500 for C-section delivery and have emergency veterinary arrangements in place.

What health tests are required for breeding Norwich Terriers?

CHIC requires eye examination by an ACVO ophthalmologist (approximately $75), hip dysplasia evaluation via OFA or PennHIP (approximately $200), and patellar luxation evaluation (approximately $50). Additionally, responsible breeders complete Primary Lens Luxation DNA test ($65), Degenerative Myelopathy DNA test ($65), D-Locus DNA test ($65), and critically, Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome screening (approximately $150). Total health testing per dog: approximately $670.

How much does it cost to breed Norwich Terriers?

A typical Norwich litter costs approximately $5,385-$5,885 including health testing, $2,000 stud fee, progesterone testing, prenatal care, whelping (natural or C-section), puppy vet care for 2.5 puppies, food, and registration. With average litter revenue of $7,500 (2.5 puppies at $3,000 each), net profit is approximately $1,615-$1,865 before accounting for breeder time, facilities, or single-puppy litter losses. Many breeders operate at break-even or loss.

At what age can you breed a Norwich Terrier?

Female Norwich Terriers should not be bred until after their second heat at a minimum of 18-24 months with all health clearances completed. Males can be used for stud at 18-24 months. OFA hip and patellar evaluations cannot be completed until 24 months, so no dog should be bred before 2 years of age. Females should be retired by 6-8 years with a maximum of 4 litters lifetime.

How much do Norwich Terrier puppies cost?

Norwich Terrier puppies from health-tested parents typically cost $3,000 for pet quality puppies with limited registration. Show potential puppies with full registration may cost $4,000-$4,500. The breed's small litter sizes, high whelping costs, and extensive health testing requirements justify premium pricing. Puppies priced significantly below $2,500 likely come from breeders who have not completed appropriate health testing.

What are the most common health problems in Norwich Terriers?

Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS) is the most significant health concern, affecting almost all Norwich to some degree, with 8-10% severely affected despite screening efforts. Hip dysplasia affects 14.9% of tested Norwich. Patellar luxation is common but specific prevalence is not published. Primary Lens Luxation affects a low-to-moderate percentage. Heart disease and epileptoid cramping syndrome occur in some lines. Responsible breeding requires NTUAS screening and comprehensive health testing.

Is breeding Norwich Terriers profitable?

Breeding Norwich Terriers is rarely profitable when done responsibly. Average net per litter is approximately $1,600-$1,800 before accounting for breeder time (300+ hours), facilities, equipment, showing costs, and education. Single-puppy litters (20% of breedings) result in significant losses averaging $2,635. The breed is preserved by dedicated hobbyist breeders who subsidize their programs. Commercial breeding of Norwich is not economically viable.

What is Norwich Terrier Upper Airway Syndrome (NTUAS)?

NTUAS is a complex respiratory condition affecting almost all Norwich Terriers to some degree. Symptoms include noisy breathing, respiratory distress, exercise intolerance, snoring, and gagging. An ADAMTS3 gene variant is associated with NTUAS, but inheritance is polygenic and not fully understood. DNA testing is available but does not identify all affected dogs. Intensive screening has reduced severely affected dogs from 44% (1988-1997) to 8.6% (2006-2014), but NTUAS remains the breed's most critical health challenge requiring careful breeding management.

How long should Norwich Terrier puppies stay with the breeder?

Most Norwich breeders keep puppies until 10-12 weeks of age rather than the traditional 8 weeks. This extended time provides critical socialization, allows full establishment of confident temperaments, completion of ear erection, and better assessment of show potential. The socialization window peaks at 8-10 weeks, making this time valuable for puppy development. By 10-12 weeks, puppies have received more vaccinations and are better prepared for transition to new homes.