The Joy of Having a Norwich

The Norwich Terrier was not a dog I had ever heard of until one joined my family a while ago. Although not as common a dog breed, it’s one that is full of spirit, determination and joy.

I first got to know this breed in 2009, when I was lucky enough to bring one home. Never owning a dog before I realized I had to do some homework first. When looking for a dog that matched my energy level, the “groove” in the house, and my experience (or lack thereof). But after consulting a few websites and reading more about the breed, I realized this was the breed for me.

A Little About the Norwich

This breed is a ”big dog in a small dog’s body”. This dog is all personality and is loyal, playful, and gregarious.

I find that he’s good with kids, reads people well and knows when to engage with someone and when to respect their space. They are dogs that both love to cuddle and chill and love to play with you. My little guy also knows when to do his ”cute pose” which can either mean, ”play with me” or just simply ”aren’t I cute mom?”

Activity

They love to walk and mine has this cute “sideways” walk where his little caboose kind of shifts to the left.

Any happy Norwich loves a yard where they can hunt. They have these huge front paws that are excellent diggers (because their job is to go after small critters such as mice etc), and mine loves to dig in his usual spot under the cedar bush or in my vegetable garden! He may have stolen a petunia or two or three but he has thankfully grown out of that. (Imagine a grown adult chasing a 15lb dog all over the yard, with a petunia hanging out of the dog’s mouth…root and all!)

Health

Health wise, they generally have good health. I discovered midway through having him, that he could be considered a brachycephalic dog due to some “skin flap” that they have. So after doing some research, I have been careful around overly exercising him in heat, and always remind the vet before any procedures.

In their older age, there can be issues with their eyes and hips, but this one has been generally in great health with the exception with one episode of cancer (now 4 years ago….will share more later.)

Bliss Reflection #14

I know that it’s obvious that pets and dogs bring people joy. I have had cats before that i loved.

But the Norwich personality is quite unique. They are feisty but loving all at the same time. On one hand, you have this small mack truck coming at you with a huge happy grin, flying across the air. And then a few moments later, he wants to lay on your lap and have a nap. He’s got the cutest butt, and when he walks, he’s got a bouncy waddle. And he always has a huge smile!

So how could this little bundle not give you joy? The answer is ”I don’t know!” Ziggy, will turn 13 in a few weeks, and is a survivor of cancer. And even though he’s slowed down just a little, he always wants to spread joy.

He just has to give me a look, I call it the ”Ziggy look” and then my heart melts. Not sure I could put into words how he has made a difference in my life. He can make your tears go away or make me have a belly laugh. I recognize and love his feistiness. And maybe it matches my level of feistiness.

They want very little, but to be loved, walked, fed, and played with. And in return they can make a lonely day go away. In return, you get some joy watching this cute butt sticking from under a bush, causing tons of mulch and soil to come flying everywhere.

All they want to do is be with you. This little guy has even joined me paddle-boarding. He loves to fall asleep on the front of the board, while I gently rock it through the water. He loves camping and can’t wait to climb into the tent and fall asleep under the cool evening sky.

He’s my little buddy. He’s taught me so much like how to just how to “be” there for someone. I’ve learned the importance of enjoying the small things in life. He’s shown me that an occasional nap during the day can make you happy.

The Norwich Terrier is hands down just the epitome of a happy go lucky dog.

PS. While I typed this entry, he was staring at me intently hoping that I would stop soon and give him some love and attention.

PPS. This isn’t ToTo from the Wizard of Oz. I believe that was a Cairn Terrier but these look a lot like ToTo. And yes, this is the breed that was in the “Best in Show” movie.

Bliss Finds and Facts

• There are many sites that provide more information about the Norwich Terrier. But the best authority is the American (Canadian) Kennel Club.
• Meet the woman who may have inspired “Best in Breed”.